If you’re anything like me and have combination skin, finding the perfect foundation can feel like a never-ending search. Some foundations leave me too oily, while others highlight dry patches I didn’t even know I had! That’s why I was so intrigued when I heard about the MAC Studio Radiance Serum-Powered Foundation.
I bought this foundation when I had one of those Mac cosmetic make up appointments.
I had an event in Glasgow and part of the deal is you get to spend the money you've paid to have your face painted in-store. I took a gamble on this New Mac foundation. The one I wore to the event was heavier and I don't wear heavy foundation day to day. I wanted a lighter cover option with staying power and this particular foundation ticked the boxes. It had promises of flawless skin but with the magic properties of a tint but more of a medium coverage. I haven't actually bought a lot in Mac in years so this really appealed to me. I am a lighter-finish kinda gal and this sounded so interesting to me. It's promised to be a Medium coverage foundation with skincare benefits.
But we all know it takes a lot to compete with my Chanel Vitalumière Aqua. Could this be the holy grail that ticks all the boxes? is the best foundation for combination skin?
What Is the MAC Studio Radiance Serum-Powered Foundation?
This serum is a skincare-infused makeup product designed to give your skin a radiant, hydrated glow. MAC has combined their expertise in makeup with powerful ingredients, creating a formula that’s meant to enhance your complexion while nourishing your face.
Why Is It Gaining Popularity?
From beauty influencers to Tiktokers, everyone is raving about this product and for good reason. It claims to offer medium, buildable coverage with a dewy finish while also protecting your face from pollutants and blue light. With a decent 56 shades, it’s designed to cater to many skin tone and undertones.
Who Should Consider Using This Product?
If you:
- Have combination skin like me and need a foundation that balances hydration and oil control.
- Prefer a natural, skin-like finish rather than a heavy, matte look.
- Want makeup that doubles as skin care.
Then this foundation might be your perfect match!
Key Features of MAC Studio Radiance
What Makes This Foundation Unique?
This isn’t your typical foundation. It’s packed with 33 skincare ingredients, including:
- Hyaluronic acid for hydration and plumping.
- Olive and jojoba oils for added nourishment.
- Antioxidants to protect your skin from pollution and blue light.
- +209% instant hydration for plumper, smoother-looking and more radiant glow*
- Smooths the look of skin's texture and evens out skin tone
- Strengthens and reinforces the skin barrier
- Improves skin's beauty over time through hydration
- Water- sweat & humidity resistant
- Transfer resistant
- Non-comedogenic (does not clog pores)
- Suitable for all skin type
- Dermatologist-tested
- New easy-to-apply pump
- Recyclable bottle, eligible for back-to-MAC
How Does the Serum-Powered Technology Work?
The product infuses serum into the formula, which helps to lock in moisture and create a luminosity, it' s a lit-from-within glow. Think of it as makeup that works overtime to improve your texture while you wear it! Its the hybrate between the two worlds.
Application and Wearability
Shade matching Is a Must
Mac do thing differently there are 4 colour groups that they have in foundations NW, N, NC and C. So I would recommend going in and getting shade matched and look in different lights to make sure you have your correct shade. Mac is on the higher end of things so its worth being sure.
These stand for:
- NW: Neutral Warm,
- N Neutral,
- NC Neutral Cool
- C. Cool.
ROSY
This falls under our NW and N shades, you could also describe them as rich, warm, copper and mahogany.
GOLDEN
NC and C are considered golden, but you can also describe them as caramel, champagne tones and tan shades.
Yes You would think NC would be cool not golden tones but this is the ways they work and they have been around along time.
How to Apply for the Best Results
Here’s what worked for me:
- Start with your normal skincare routine
- then use a good primer to smooth your base.
- Use I like to use my fingers for aapilciaton but a damp beauty sponge or a flat brush will work for blending.
- Build coverage slowly it’s lightweight and buildable, so you can customize your look.
How Does It Perform Throughout the Day?
My face has been acting up at the moment on my combination skin, it held up beautifully. My T-zone stayed relatively oil-free, and my dry patches remained hydrated without looking patchy. I have tested this with and without a setting powder. I found it wore well for about 6 hours before needing a little touch-up with powder. This is not really a day to night option because it does break down over time. Its more your everyday look not a see you though anything kinda deal.
Benefits of Using MAC Studio Radiance
Enhancing Skin Radiance
The dewy finish truly gives your skin that “your-skin-but-better” glow. It’s perfect for achieving a natural, glowing look. But if this is not your vibe then you will not like this it is not in any way matt. You can dim down the finish with powder.
Hydration Effects
Thanks to the serum-powered formula, my skin felt moisturized all day, even in colder weather. You all know I mountian bike and this can hold up a day on the trails bit it can get a little bit patchy but for people not throwing themselves down trails I think wouldn't happen as much.
Comparisons With Other Foundations
How Does It Compare to Other MAC Foundations?
- Studio Fix Fluid: Offers more matte finish and oil control but lacks the hydrating benefits.
- Face and Body Foundation: Similar lightweight feel but doesn’t offer the same skincare perks. I think this is a sister product to face and body similar with a few differences.
Are There Any Drawbacks?
- If you prefer a matte finish, this might not be for you.
- It runs slightly darker, so make sure to get matched in-store or check reviews for shade comparisons. In other words it oxidises.
My Review
I’ve been using the MAC Radiance Serum-Powered Foundation for a few month now, and honestly, I’m impressed. It blends effortlessly, feels weightless, and doesn’t clog my pores.
I got matched to NC18, which I am not 100% is my shade I am normally NC35 in mac studio fix. I do recommend getting shade matched. Mac have a different way of grading their products. As I have said it is more complex than you would think.
I l do love how it enhances my natural complexion without feeling heavy. It is one of those foundation you can forget you have it on, it is that light weight. But if you like flawless finsihe this is not for you. You need to use a few other products to make this a more full baked looking. Its your natural look go to. But I do like it but I am not sure if I would buy it again. It is in the good but category for me. So I am on the fence and back to searching Hydrating foundation reviews to find a new one to try out.
How Much Does It Cost?
The foundation retails for around £38 and comes in a sleek, recyclable glass bottle. It’s an investment, but considering it doubles as skincare, I think it’s worth it for a light option. especially if you have money to spend in mac. I did also buy the mac studio fix concealer at the same time so I will do a review soon it was £25 and I got lashes and this covered the make up application.
What Are the Experiences of People With Sensitive Skin?
From what I’ve read, people with sensitive skin have found it gentle and non-irritating, thanks to the absence of harsh ingredients. However, as always, patch testing is recommended.
Conclusion: Is the MAC Studio Serum-Powered Foundation Worth It?
If you’re after a foundation that hydrates, protects, and gives you a radiant, natural finish, this is a fantastic option. It’s perfect for anyone with combination or dry skin, but even oily skin types might enjoy its lightweight feel.
Final Thoughts and Recommendations
I’d definitely recommend giving the Studio Radiance Serum Foundation a try. For It's benefits and beautiful finish. Plus, I love its wide shade range, there’s something for everyone and that is really nice to see in this industry.
FAQs About MAC Radiance
- Does it suit oily skin? Yes, but set it with powder for longer wear.
- What’s the coverage like? Medium, buildable coverage with a dewy finish.
- Can it replace skincare? No, but it complements a good skincare routine.
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