MAC Mineralize SPF 15 Foundation Look and Review




I had the chance to try out the new MAC Mineralize SPF 15 foundation which comes in a compact with sponge at the bottom compartment. It is exactly what MAC claims that it is unique in texture. It is kinda similar to MAC Studio Sculpt concealer in texture and consistency - it's not a cake foundation but not liquid either. It is very creamy and gel-based. It glides effortlessly on the skin and the cushiony gel base helps color slip onto skin for a medium-coverage silky finish.





The fact that it is not a cake foundation but gel-based necessitates this foil seal. After taking off the foil, you need to remind yourself to completely close the compact in order not to dry out the product.






Ingredient list at the back of the box

Like the Studio Sculpt foundation, the shades run a bit darker than the regular line of MAC foundations. I used NW25 for the look below. I used my Coastal Scents' kabuki-on-a-stick (similar to Bare Escentuals' Handy Buki brush) to apply the product on the face. Or you can always opt to get the new MAC 130 short duo fibre brush made specifically for liquid and gel-based foundations like the MAC Mineralize SPF 15:





Read the rest of the review and see a look using MAC Mineralize SPF 15 foundation after the jump





I applied the product in circular buffing motions on the face, applying in light layers. The coverage is medium but buildable. However, if you have a lot of blemishes to hide, I believe other MAC foundation variants would be better. This new Mineralize SPF 15 foundation yields a very natural, silky, dewy appearance that does not appear cakey. This is probably due to the fact that "the gel fuses the formula's high water content - 30.5% - with the polymers and coated pigments for the ultimate in silky smooth, yet long wearing (up to 8 hours), colour payoff" (taken from MAC's product description).



Upside:

All in all, this product is akin to Studio Sculpt in finish. It makes my pores look smaller, and just gives an overall creamy look. It is not too matte, but not shiny either. The coverage is medium though so I recommend the Studio Sculpt concealer to pat on problem areas, but overall this is a good product that yields a natural, creamy look. It also seems to make the pores less visible.

What I like about this product is that it is mineral-infused. You guys know me and my mineral makeup. The fact that it contains minerals and LOTS and lots of water (30.5%) makes this a winner in my book. It makes my skin look hydrated and not dull and flaky. It also contains a special blend of 77 minerals that have been bio-fermented into a yeast extract and Multimineral Complex IV, a water-based solution of Potassium, Magnesium, Sodium and Zinc.

Downside:

I guess the downside is that it is not full coverage for those who want a full coverage finish. It also seems not to be as longer lasting as other cake foundations. Also, if you have very oily skin, I guess this is not for you as well, because MAC stated that this is good for "all skin types but especially normal to dry." I guess the high water content coupled with excess oil is not good for the product's staying power.

If you have normal to dry skin, or even combination skin (like I do), give this product a try if you want a creamy, silky finish that is not cakey. It also comes in a convenient compact that you can tote around; perfect for travel.

Note: Media samples were provided by a representative of the company. For more information on the matter, please refer to the Disclosure page.

11 comments

SilhouetteScreams said...

Being that I have oily skin, I guess this is not for me, but the new technology is so interesting! I just want to poke the foundation to see what it feels like. XD

Anonymous said...

Can you tell me the ingredients of this foundation? I broke out using Studio Fix Fluid (a few breakouts that werent too bad) Studio Fix Powder (horrible breakouts). I didnt breakout using Studio Sculpt or Face and Body

Connie De Alwis said...

thanks for the review! now I'm on the fence between this one and the studio sculpt.

Sylvie said...

Thanks for your review. I received a sample of this foundation when it came out two weeks ago in Europe and I've been using it for a week. I think it's quite good, very lightweight, almost like I'm not wearing any foundation. But I don't know what's stopping me from running to the store to get it. I think I just might, tomorrow. By the way, if you've seen the 130, how do you think it compares with Enkore's stipple and swirl? I left you a comment on your original review of the brush because I was curious to find out if it stopped shedding.

anne said...

for those oily ladies: i can get very oily and i love the foundation. i have to set it though. i have the feeling, that all the moisture that comes from this foundation stops my skin from producing oil a little bit. i still shine after some hours, but less then usual. and this foundation is not swimming away it stays in place. you should at least give this a try at the counter IMO <3

The Shades Of U said...

Anonymous- I included a picture of the back of the box that includes a closeup shot of the ingredients list (see above).

Silhouette Screams - lol, if you poke it, it's a little bit like Studio Sculpt concealer in texture.

Connie de Alwis- I like Studio Sculpt so much! This one is pretty good too, but I need to get NC25 to get my exact match.

Sylvie- sorry for the late reply. Unfortunately the Stipple and Swirl still sheds.. =(. I will get the 130 and will do a side-by-side comparison in a later entry.

anne- I'm glad it worked for you despite your oily skin. I have combination skin and it worked well with me, and like you I had to set it with my mineral finishing powder. It worked well for me during winter, I have to roadtest it again when summer hits.

fabulessbeauty said...

Are there any brushes that you recommend for the application of this foundation?

Jess said...

Great review! I've tried this out at the counter today, and it made my skin look flawless. So I think, I'll go back to purchase it (and most probably the #130 brush too).

Lifecell Wrinkle Cream said...

I love MAC products, this is perfect for people with with dry skin. When applied, it seeps into fine lines which is less visible when applied.

I bought the #130 brush and the Mac Mineralize SPF 15 compact. They compliment each other perfectly.

What I do is exfoliate my skin every night so that on day when I apply, it will glide to my skin smoothly.

But if you've got good moisturised skin then its probably fine. It comes out with shiny mineral particles and makes you "glow/shine", literally.

Natural Cosmetics said...

That's an unusual color of brown. Very warm. Pretty, but not right for my skin. Bummer.

Anonymous said...

I love this foundation, it gives me a fresh look a lovely glow. I've tried mac studio-fix which gave me a break out and select SPF 15 made my skin itchy but no reaction from mineralize SPF 15. However I would like it to last longer, I'm not sure which powder would be best to use with this, any recommendations?