When I have burning MAC questions and I haven't gotten them answered by my friends or at a counter, I chat with a MAC rep on the MAC chat. This time, I asked about foundations. Here's the transcript of our convo:
Chat Transcriptinfo: Happy Holidays from MAC Cosmetics Online. One of our Artists will be with you shortly.
info: Hello. Thank you for your interest in MAC Cosmetics. My name is
Barbara. How may I assist you?
kia: hi barbara.. i am writing in today because i'm interested in finding more good foundation
kia: can you tell me the difference between satinfinish mineralized foundation and the hyperreal foundation?
Barbara: Hi Kia. We've got some great ones at MAC. I'm glad to help.
Barbara: Sure!
Barbara: MAC Mineralize Satinfinish SPF 15 Foundation liquid formula blends the light-reflecting properties of micro-minerals with a smooth, natural-satin finish. It provides medium-sheer buildable coverage with a subtle luminosity.
Barbara: MAC Hyper Real Foundation SPF 15 illuminates the skin creating a healthy-looking glow with a satin finish. You will notice a beautiful iridescent pearl to the skin. The silicone-based formula provides medium-sheer, buildable coverage.
Barbara:
Click here for the MAC Foundation page.
kia: they don't sound different to me.. they sound like the same thing
Barbara: The Hyper Real Foundation has a noticeable pearl to it so there is an iridescent, satin finish to the skin. It's a much more "radiant" formula than Mineralize Satinfinish.
kia: oh ok... and how does the silicone based formula work differently with the skin than the satinfinish foundation?
Barbara: Silicone is very smooth so Hyper Real glides on the skin and will help to give you an even texture.
kia: so hyper real is better at evening out texture where as the satin finish mimicks your real skin?
Barbara: That's a great analogy. Yes!
Barbara: Also, don't forget that there is a pearl to Hyper Real. Think skin like Jennifer Lopez who always has that glow.
kia: so where does the studio fix fluid and tinted moisturizer (don't know the exact name) line up with the other two?
kia: side note: oh i love iridescent skin.. that's why i'm considering buying the hyperreal. i actually love the pink in nw, but i've been matched with nc400 i think
Barbara: Studio Fix Fluid SPF 15 is a matte finish with more coverage (medium-full). Select Tint SPF 15 is super sheer and with a satiny finish.
kia: when you say satiny do you mean dewy?
Barbara: Yes, satiny as in dewy.
Barbara: If you love iridescent skin, Hyper Real is the best choice.
kia: i love iridescence, but what i usually do is matte my skin out and add iridescent powders on top.. i'm hoping that the iridescence in the foundation won't enhance a sweaty look... =(
Barbara: It won't make you look sweaty. If you have an opportunity to try Hyper Real, I highly recommend it.
kia: for combination skin (oily t zone) how do you suggest using it?
Barbara: You can apply it with a brush like the #190 in downward strokes. Then through your t-zone, pat Blot Powder/Pressed to take care of any shine. You can touch up with Blot Powder/Pressed through the day too.
Barbara:
Click here for the MAC Powder page.
kia: what's the difference between studio fix powder and studio fix fluid? what's the advantages of one over the other?
Barbara: Think of Studio Fix Fluid as a liquid version of Studio Fix Powder. They give the same coverage and both a matte finish (although Studio Fix Powder is more matte). It really comes down to personal preference in terms of advantages. Some like a powder and others like a liquid.
kia: while over at the powders page.. what's the difference between a loose/pressed powder and a blot powder?
Barbara: Loose powder is a little more sheer however, it's barely noticeable. They perform the same function (setting foundation and reducing shine). If you like to carry your powder, the pressed format is convenient to put in your bag and less messy.
kia: hmmmm so there's not much diff between a blot powder and pressed... why are there two?! lol just to confuse us? do you prefer one over the other?
Barbara: Sorry, are you referring to the two formulas of Blot Powder (pressed vs. loose) or Blot Powder vs. Select Sheer Loose Powder?
kia: the latter
Barbara: My apologies, I misread your question.
kia: oh no prob =)
Barbara: The Select Sheer Loose Powder gives more coverage. It's great for setting foundation or for a touch up or two but any more than that it will start to build up on the skin. You don't get that from Blot Powder (the build up that is).
Barbara: On combination/t-zone skin, Blot Powder is my suggestion.
kia: cool.. so do they still serve the same function? and i won't get build up with blot powder?
Barbara: Yes, they serve the same function. Blot Powder will absorb more oil however and it won't build up with repeated use.
kia: great! will the blot powder take away from the iridescence in the foundation?
Barbara: No it's very sheer so it won't.
kia: how would you prep skin with an oily t zone before the hyperreal foundation?
Barbara: To prep, use MAC Oil Control Lotion on your combination/oily t-zone skin. It is a lightweight, silky matte moisturizer that provides both shine control and moisture to your skin throughout the day. It's an ideal base for foundation (including Hyper Real).
Barbara:
Click here for the MAC Moisturizers page.
kia: great!
kia: i feel prepared now for when i go into the store.. oh last question
kia: how does face and body foundation compare to the other foundations granted we know it's great coverage for not only face, but the body as well?
Barbara: It's on par in terms of coverage with Select Tint SPF 15 Foundation, so more sheer than all of the others. It's a dewy/satin finish and also water resistant if you need that.
Barbara: Have fun at the MAC store Kia! I hope the information I have provided will assist you in your product selections. info: Thank you for chatting with us. If we can be of further assistance, please contact us again.