Red Carpet Ready: How Charlotte Tilbury’s £20 Setting Spray Became Hollywood’s Secret Weapon

When Demi Moore graced the Oscars red carpet last weekend, everyone marvelled at her ageless beauty.

The 62-year-old Best Actress nominee for The Substance stunned in a sparkling Giorgio Armani gown, but it was her glossy hair and flawless makeup that truly enchanted audiences, remaining immaculate from red carpet to the after-party.

But what’s the secret behind this camera-ready perfection? A relatively affordable beauty product has become the unsung hero of celebrity makeup artists: Charlotte Tilbury’s Airbrush Flawless Setting Spray.

The Hollywood Essential That’s Flying Off Shelves

At just £20 for the travel size (or £32 for the full bottle), this setting spray has become a staple in makeup artists’ kits across Hollywood.

According to industry insiders, one bottle sells every six seconds, making it the number-one setting spray in the UK and US.

Sofia Tilbury, Charlotte’s niece and the makeup artist behind Demi Moore’s Oscar look, revealed the complete product breakdown on Instagram, with the setting spray as the final step.

“I’m so in love with this look,” Sofia wrote, “using Charlotte Tilbury’s Hollywood Flawless Filter for Demi’s fresh, glowing skin, with a kiss of Candy Chic on the lips.”

Why Makeup Artists Swear By It

What makes this particular setting spray stand out in a crowded market? Unlike many competitors that simply create a film over makeup, Charlotte Tilbury’s formula works as a skincare-makeup hybrid.

The lightweight mist contains:

• Japanese green tea and aloe vera to hydrate and soothe the skin
• Flawless Film Formers that create an invisible shield over makeup
• Aromatic resin to minimise the appearance of pores

“It’s not just about making makeup last longer,” explains one beauty industry expert.

“It’s about improving the actual look of the skin underneath. That’s why makeup artists love it for high-definition cameras and harsh lighting.”

The A-List Approval

Demi Moore wasn’t alone in trusting this spray for her Oscar moment. The same product was also used on:

• Michelle Yeoh (star of Wicked)
• Adrien Brody (Best Actor winner for The Brutalist)
• Colman Domingo (Sing Sing)

This widespread adoption speaks volumes. When celebrity makeup artists have access to any product regardless of price point, they consistently reach for this £20 spray.

The Charlotte Tilbury Effect

The brand’s domination on the red carpet isn’t limited to this single product.

Charlotte Tilbury built her empire on understanding what performs under challenging conditions – from runway lights to red carpets to everyday wear.

Before launching her line in 2013, Tilbury worked for decades as a makeup artist for supermodels and celebrities.

This experience informed her product development, focusing on formulas that enhance rather than mask, creating a natural yet perfected appearance that works both in person and on camera.

The philosophy extends across her entire range, which explains why Sofia Tilbury used multiple Charlotte Tilbury products on Demi Moore, including:

• Charlotte’s Magic Cream (£54)
• Hollywood Flawless Filter in shade 3 (£39)
• Luxury Palette in Uptown Girl (£46)
• Lip Cheat in Pillow Talk Medium (£29)

What Makes It Different From Competitors

In the oversaturated setting spray market, Charlotte Tilbury’s version stands out for several reasons:

Versatility: It works for all skin types and makeup styles

Dual-purpose technology: It both sets makeup and improves skin appearance

Lightweight feel: Many users report forgetting they’re wearing it at all

True longevity: The 16-hour wear claim stands up to real-world testing

Unlike many setting sprays that leave a sticky residue or alter the finish of makeup, this formula maintains the intended look while adding protection.

The fine mist application ensures even distribution without disturbing carefully applied makeup underneath.

The Science Behind the Staying Power

The spray’s effectiveness comes down to its unique formula. The lightweight setting spray is waterproof yet breathable, creating what the brand calls a “pollution shield” over makeup.

The sprayer itself is also crucial to the product’s success. It delivers an ultra-fine mist that doesn’t leave droplets on the skin (a common complaint with other setting sprays).

This allows for even application without having to touch the face and potentially disturb makeup.

A Bargain By Hollywood Standards

In an industry where many beauty products used by celebrities cost upwards of £100, the £20 price tag (for the travel size) makes this product particularly noteworthy.

It’s an accessible entry point into Charlotte Tilbury’s range for those who might baulk at spending £54 on her famous Magic Cream.

Why It’s Perfect For Summer 2025

As we approach summer, setting sprays become even more essential in makeup routines.

The Charlotte Tilbury Airbrush Flawless Setting Spray is particularly well-suited for warmer weather because:

• It’s lightweight and doesn’t feel heavy on the skin
• It helps control shine in hot weather
• The waterproof formula resists sweat and humidity
• It adds hydration rather than drying out the skin

The Bottom Line

While expensive skincare and makeup routines are often seen as necessary for camera-ready looks, Charlotte Tilbury’s Airbrush Flawless Setting Spray proves that some of the most essential products don’t need to break the bank.

Its popularity at this year’s Oscars cements what beauty insiders have known for years: sometimes the finishing touch makes all the difference.

If it’s good enough for Demi Moore on Hollywood’s biggest night, it might just be worth adding to your makeup bag.