Initial Thoughts

When it comes to my preferred method of applying Matchmaster, I love using my MAC 188 small duo fibre brush ($34.00). Any stippling brush will do, but I just prefer the MAC 188 because since it is a little smaller, I feel like it gives me more concentrated coverage. Not to mention it blends in my foundation like a dream.

As I mentioned before, I matched myself to the shade 2.0. I have yellow undertones in my skin and 2.0 seemed to be the shade that would best suit my yellow tones. When I first pumped out a bit of the foundation onto the back of my hand, I noticed that the foundation had some yellow coloring, but I also spied a hint of orange mixed in, as well. When I first saw the orange, I questioned if I chose the right shade? There was only one way to find out. I started stippling and blending the foundation onto my face-I find that using two pumps of the foundation gives me the coverage that I prefer. I also noticed that this foundation is super easy to blend. The formula is very creamy, but there is a little hint of thickness incorporated into the mix as well. With the pro longwear foundation, I had to work in sections because it would set so quick. But with matchmaster, I still have a little bit of extra time to blend it in before it completely sets. 

When I first applied this foundation, I was instantly introduced with a strong scent. It was quite familiar, actually. It smelled just like the MAC studio fix fluid foundation. I tried studio fix fluid a few years ago and even to this day, I don't forget the smell. But, I am not going to say this is a big deal-breaker for me because I don't consider myself as sensitive to scents as others may be. But, on the plus side, I find that the scent lessens as the day wears on. I actually don't really notice it much after awhile.

OK, when it comes to the color-match...I found it pretty interesting. When I finished blending the foundation onto my skin, I noticed that the coloring was a tiny bit off. The foundation definitely appeared a little darker. You can imagine my disappointment right then and there. I thought I had picked the wrong shade for myself, and I was going to have to go back to the MAC store to see if shade 1.5-which is the next shade down, was actually the better match for my skin. But the most amazing thing happened. I let the foundation set for a bit, and between the 5-10 minutes after I had applied the foundation, I looked in the mirror again, and the match was perfect! My face did not seem darker anymore. I don't know how, but somehow the foundation just blended into my skin to match my skin tone. I just can't explain it. I was speechless. I guess the name "matchmaster" says it all-it works to match your skin tone. From this experience, I assume that one needs to let the foundation set for a few minutes, to ensure that it matches your own skin tone. According to the description of the matchmaster foundation on the MAC website, this foundation contains "translucent pigments that enable a fully personalized finish influenced by your own skin's undertone". Very cool! 

Coverage/Results

I was pretty impressed with the coverage. I found it to be medium-buildable. Matchmaster did diffuse my acne scars, nicely, but it did not completely cover them. A concealer might be needed for those who prefer a more fuller coverage on certain areas of the face. The finish looks a bit matte, but its not completely matte. It gives more of a satin finish. This foundation makes my skin look really nice. It gives a my skin, but better look. Since its winter here, my skin is a bit drier than usual. I make sure to moisturize my skin well to ensure that the foundation doesn't emphasize any dry areas. I am almost certain it would if I didn't moisturize, properly. While on, the foundation did not feel heavy on my skin, nor did it feel tacky. I just hate heavy-feeling foundations. 

I am happy to report that this foundation lasted all day on. The longest I have had this foundation on was for about 9-10 hours. I have an oily T-Zone area, and I find that I only have to blot those areas once throughout the day. Those areas got oily around the 3-4 hour mark. Also, I have experienced no breakouts as a result of using matchmaster, which is a huge plus. I love to try foundations, but I know that some may not react well with my skin. Luckily, my sensitive, acne-prone skin accepts matchmaster.

Conclusion

Overall, I really like MAC's Matchmaster foundation. I am really impressed with it and I think its going to be one of my staples for the new year. I am curious to see how this foundation will fare up come the warmer, summer weather? I guess I will find out in a few months! 

Have any of you tried MAC's Matchmaster foundation? What do you all think of it?

Disclaimer: I am not affiliated with any of the companies mentioned above. I purchased this product for my personal use.