March 28, 2024

I tried the MAC foundation that *everyone* is talking about and it definitely lived up to the hype

MAC’s Studio Fix Fluid Foundation has been a firm fixture in many of our makeup bags at some point or another. It’s a bonafide classic and when used alone, provides full, matte coverage in no less than 64 shades.

MAC Studio Fix Fluid Foundation, £26

Pretty impressive. But now, the makeup marvels at MAC have determined four different formulas, combining Studio Fix with different product, to deliver entirely different finishes. This is revolutionary for someone like me, who still wants full coverage but also pines for a dewy, ‘lit-from-within’ finish.

THE REVIEWER

Lottie Winter, Beauty Editor

BEAUTY BIO

I have oily, blemish-full yet sensitive skin, which means I beeline for full coverage foundations and once I’ve found one that doesn’t exacerbate my breakouts, I stick to it. The only problem is that I’ve always wanted to rock a dewy, no-makeup look, which is seldom achievable with a full coverage formula, so I was excited at the prospect of achieving that without compromising on or switching up my foundation.

THE REVIEW

I decided to try out what I believe to be the two opposite ends of the Skin Finish spectrum – dewy vs matte, but there are two other Finishes to choose from (fresh and full). I applied the dewy finish to half my face, and the matte finish to the other for easy comparison.

The dewy finish includes Prep+Prime Fix+ Spray in GoldLite, MAC PRO Conceal and Correct Palette and Strobe Cream to accompany the original Studio Fix Foundation. I began with a misting of the Prep+Prime Fix+, which is infused with pearlescent pearls for that inner-glow. Next, I blended in my Studio Fix Foundation as usual followed by the concealer palette to hide any blemishes or discolouration. I finished with Strobe Cream – a balmy highlighter that can be built up depending on the level of dewy you desire – on accent areas. The products layer exceptionally well, complementing rather than competing with each other and the result was a truly dewy, radiant finish that also provided full coverage.

On the left, the dewy finish, and on the right, matte.

Now, for the matte finish. For this, MAC includes Prep+Prime Natural Radiance primer, which locks in moisture while controlling oil, the new Studio Fix 24-Hour Smooth Wear Concealer and the Prep+Prime Fix+ Mattifying Spray to accompany the Studio Fix Foundation.

Again, the products felt totally in synergy with one another, enhancing the application of the one that followed. I prepped with the primer, which felt soothing and incredibly lightweight, and then straight in with the foundation. The concealer deserves some serious recognition – it’s a creamy, full coverage formula that blends beautifully and has endless ability to cover all manner of blemishes. The Fix+ Mattifying spray set the look without dulling it down as some setting powders tend to do.

Both looks were equally as impressive as they both delivered without disappointment. While I tend to go for a matte finish in an attempt to chase away the slightest bit of shine, I’m finally able to embrace the dewy finish without compromising on coverage. Thanks MAC!

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