Mac Studio Tech Foundation Nc35

MAC Studio Tech is probably one of, if not the most spoken about Cream-Powder Foundations (at least in the United States.) Mac claims that they formulated Studio Tech Foundation using a 'Tri-System Blend of Water, Emollients and Powder for truly adjustable coverage.'

Cream-Powder Foundations (or Creme-Powder foundations depending on which version you prefer), are typically either a 'love it' or 'hate it' product. Unlike Moisturizing Cream Foundations which have an emollient formula and hydrate skin, Cream-Powder Foundations set in to a powdery (usually matte) finish. Because of this, they are often too drying for those with very dry skin and many times those with acne-prone skin find the initial texture to be too thick and potentially clog pores. Luckily, silicone technology has improved so much in recent years that companies are starting to re-push the 'new' cream-powder formulas which have a lighter weight texture and micro-milled pigments which result in a flawless finish. Studio Tech Foundation is the perfect example of this Cream-Powder revolution.

Housed in a Standard MAC compact Is a formula which initially appears somewhat thick yet manages to have a distinct 'aerated' consistency. Blending is generally on the moderately easy side and almost any application method can produce decent results once you get the hang of it, but you have to work FAST and take care not to apply too much.

Studio Tech Foundation is one that should definitely be applied in thin, even layers. Applying too much at once can result in a semi-cakey appearance once dry and this can potentially make pores more noticeable than they were. I have successfully applied Studio Tech with a standard Foundation brush, buffing brush, my fingers or a sponge and all work equally well as long as my technique is correct (although most people will have a definitive preference.)

While the initial formula may appear creamy, this is a foundation for those with normal-oily skin-slightly dry skin (it can potentially cling to dry patches). You'll want to prep first with a moisturizer or moisturizing primer And avoid using a silicone primer- especially if you're seeking more than medium coverage. Using a silicone based product like trimethicone based Studio Tech foundation OVER a silicone primer could lead to the foundation balling up and that's just not fun. If you have VERY oily skin, you'd be better off setting Studio Tech with powder or a silicone powder alternative like Mally's Poreless Face Defender.

MAC's claim that Studio Tech is a foundation which will provide adjustable coverage isn't all that far off and you can easily achieve coverage ranging from light-full with a matte finish that's perfect for everything from everyday use, to bridal makeup, to professional settings like photo shoots.

Studio Tech Foundation is available in nearly 25 shades which range from fair-deep. MAC did a rarity here and instead of the lightest shade touting an NC tag, the lightest is NW15. Luckily for those with yellow undertones Or pink, the NW15 shade is very neutral and should suit many who normaly use NC shades.

Studio Tech Foundation is really an exciting foundation that can provide amazing insight into the direction foundation technology is headed. Just a few years after Mac released Studio Tech Foundation they released their Pro Longwear Compact which is even more of an advanced formula (although it only provides light coverage.)

If you find Studio Tech to be too heavy or clog pores but you still want the coverage it provides, check out Marc Jacobs Marvelous Mousse Transformative Foundation. in addition to being a creamier, lighter weight alternative to Studio Tech, Marc Jacobs is CRUELTY FREE and that's a huge plus!