Mehron StarBlend Cake Kit Review: Medium Shade Magic
Are you searching for a versatile and high-performing makeup kit for your theatrical performances, cosplay adventures, or even everyday makeup looks? Look no further. The Mehron StarBlend Cake Kit in medium shades might be the answer to your beauty prayers. This comprehensive review dives deep into the world of StarBlend, exploring its formulation, application techniques, color payoff, and overall suitability for different skin tones and makeup styles.
What is Mehron StarBlend Cake Makeup?
Mehron is a well-known and respected brand in the world of professional makeup. They are particularly popular within the theatrical and special effects communities. The StarBlend Cake Makeup is one of their flagship products. It’s a dry, highly pigmented makeup that transforms into a creamy, blendable formula when activated with water or a mixing liquid. The “cake” refers to its pressed powder form, similar to a face powder or eyeshadow pan.
This makeup is designed to provide full coverage and long-lasting wear, making it ideal for stage performances, film shoots, costume parties, and any situation where you need your makeup to stay put and look flawless under harsh lighting or demanding conditions. The medium shades cater to a wide range of skin tones, offering options for contouring, highlighting, and creating a natural-looking base.
The Allure of Medium Shades
The “medium” range within the StarBlend Cake Kit collection is particularly appealing due to its versatility. These shades often encompass a spectrum of beige, tan, and olive tones that can be mixed and matched to achieve a customized color match. Medium shades are useful for:
- Creating a natural-looking base for everyday makeup
- Contouring and sculpting the face to add dimension
- Highlighting specific areas to enhance features
- Correcting minor imperfections and evening out skin tone
- Serving as a base for more dramatic or theatrical makeup looks
Choosing the right medium shade is crucial for achieving a flawless finish. Consider your skin’s undertone (warm, cool, or neutral) when selecting a color. For example, someone with warm undertones might gravitate towards golden or peachy shades, while someone with cool undertones might prefer beige or rosy tones.
Unboxing the Mehron StarBlend Cake Kit (Medium)
What can you expect when you receive your Mehron StarBlend Cake Kit in medium shades? Typically, the kit includes a selection of several different cake makeup colors, carefully chosen to complement each other. The number of colors can vary depending on the specific kit you purchase. A standard kit might include:
- A base shade for overall coverage
- A contour shade for sculpting
- A highlight shade for brightening
- A few transition shades for blending and creating depth
The cakes themselves are usually housed in a sturdy palette or container, making them easy to store and transport. Some kits may also include a small brush or sponge applicator, although professional makeup artists often prefer to use their own tools for optimal application.
Key Features and Benefits
Here’s a rundown of the key features and benefits that make the Mehron StarBlend Cake Kit a worthwhile investment:
- Highly Pigmented Formula: StarBlend is known for its intense color payoff. A little goes a long way, making the kit last for a considerable amount of time.
- Blendable and Buildable: The creamy texture allows for seamless blending and layering, giving you control over the intensity of the color.
- Long-Lasting Wear: Once set with powder, StarBlend makeup stays put for hours, even under demanding conditions.
- Versatile Application: It can be used for a wide range of makeup styles, from natural looks to theatrical creations.
- Suitable for All Skin Types: The formula is generally considered safe for all skin types, including sensitive skin, although a patch test is always recommended.
- Professional Quality: Mehron is a trusted brand among makeup artists and performers, ensuring a high-quality product.
- Cost-Effective: Considering its versatility and longevity, the StarBlend Cake Kit offers excellent value for money.
Application Techniques: Getting the Most Out of Your StarBlend
Applying StarBlend Cake Makeup requires a slightly different approach compared to traditional powder or liquid foundations. Here’s a step-by-step guide to help you achieve a flawless finish:
- Prep Your Skin: Start with clean, moisturized skin. Apply a primer to create a smooth canvas and help the makeup adhere better.
- Activate the Makeup: Dip a slightly damp sponge or brush into the StarBlend cake. Avoid saturating the makeup with too much water. You want a creamy, paste-like consistency.
- Apply in Thin Layers: Start by applying a thin layer of the base shade to your entire face, using a stippling or patting motion. Avoid dragging the sponge or brush across your skin, as this can create streaks.
- Build Coverage: Gradually build up the coverage by applying additional thin layers, focusing on areas that need more correction.
- Contour and Highlight: Use a smaller, angled brush to apply the contour shade to the hollows of your cheeks, along your hairline, and down the sides of your nose. Apply the highlight shade to the high points of your face, such as your cheekbones, brow bone, and the bridge of your nose.
- Blend, Blend, Blend: Use a clean, dry sponge or brush to blend the edges of the contour and highlight shades seamlessly into the base color.
- Set with Powder: To ensure long-lasting wear, set your makeup with a generous amount of translucent powder. Use a large, fluffy brush to apply the powder all over your face.
- Finishing Touches: Complete your look with your favorite blush, eyeshadow, and lipstick.
Tips for Working with StarBlend Cake Makeup
Here are a few extra tips to help you master the art of StarBlend application:
- Experiment with Different Applicators: Try using different types of sponges and brushes to see what works best for you. Some people prefer sponges for overall coverage, while others prefer brushes for more precise application.
- Mix and Match Colors: Don’t be afraid to mix different shades together to create a custom color that perfectly matches your skin tone.
- Use a Mixing Liquid: For a more intense color payoff and longer-lasting wear, try activating the makeup with a mixing liquid instead of water.
- Set with a Setting Spray: In addition to powder, use a setting spray to further lock in your makeup and prevent it from smudging or fading.
- Remove with a Makeup Remover: StarBlend is a highly pigmented makeup, so it’s important to use a good quality makeup remover to thoroughly cleanse your skin at the end of the day.
Pros and Cons of the Mehron StarBlend Cake Kit
As with any makeup product, the Mehron StarBlend Cake Kit has its pros and cons. Here’s a balanced overview:
Pros:
- Excellent pigmentation and color payoff
- Long-lasting wear
- Blendable and buildable formula
- Versatile application
- Suitable for all skin types (with patch test)
- Professional quality
- Cost-effective
Cons:
- Requires a learning curve to master application
- Can be messy if not handled carefully
- May require a mixing liquid for optimal performance
- Can feel heavy on the skin if applied too thickly
Comparing Mehron StarBlend to Other Cake Makeup Brands
The market offers several cake makeup brands, each with unique characteristics. How does Mehron StarBlend stack up against the competition? Let’s take a look at a comparison:
Feature | Mehron StarBlend | Kryolan Aquacolor | Ben Nye MagiCake |
---|---|---|---|
Pigmentation | High | High | Medium to High |
Blendability | Excellent | Good | Good |
Longevity | Excellent | Good | Good |
Finish | Matte | Semi-Matte | Matte |
Price | Mid-Range | High-End | Mid-Range |
Availability | Widely Available | Limited Availability | Widely Available |
Overall | Excellent choice for both beginners and professionals. | A professional favorite, but more expensive. | Good option for beginners, but may require more layering. |
As you can see, Mehron StarBlend holds its own against other popular cake makeup brands. It offers excellent pigmentation, blendability, and longevity at a mid-range price point, making it a great option for both beginners and professionals.
Who is the Mehron StarBlend Cake Kit For?
The Mehron StarBlend Cake Kit is a versatile product that can be used by a wide range of people, including:
- Theatrical Performers: Actors, dancers, and singers need makeup that can withstand the heat of the stage lights and last through long performances. StarBlend delivers on both fronts.
- Cosplayers: Cosplayers often use cake makeup to create intricate and detailed character designs. StarBlend’s high pigmentation and blendability make it ideal for this purpose.
- Makeup Artists: Professional makeup artists rely on high-quality products that can deliver consistent results. Mehron is a trusted brand among makeup artists in the theatrical and special effects industries.
- Halloween Enthusiasts: If you’re planning a elaborate Halloween costume, the StarBlend Cake Kit can help you create a truly unforgettable look.
- Anyone Looking for Full Coverage Makeup: If you prefer a full-coverage foundation that can even out your skin tone and conceal imperfections, StarBlend can be a great option.
Achieving Different Looks with the Medium Shade Kit
The beauty of the Mehron StarBlend Cake Kit in medium shades lies in its adaptability. You can achieve a multitude of looks with just one kit. Imagine:
Natural Everyday Makeup:
A light wash of the base color, strategically placed highlight, and subtle contour can create a polished, everyday look. This is perfect for those who want a full coverage base without appearing heavily made up.
Glamorous Evening Makeup:
Ramping up the intensity of the contour and highlight, along with a bold lip and smoky eyes, can transform your look for a night out. The StarBlend formula allows you to build the intensity without caking.
Theatrical Character Makeup:
With the right techniques and color combinations, you can create a wide range of character looks, from subtle age makeup to fantastical creatures. The key is to experiment and practice.
Tips on Choosing the Right Medium Shade for Your Skin Tone
Selecting the correct medium shade is vital for a seamless finish. Here’s how to navigate the selection process:
- Identify Your Undertone: Determine if your skin has warm (yellow/golden), cool (pink/red), or neutral undertones.
- Consider Your Skin Depth: Are you light-medium, medium, or medium-deep?
- Read Reviews and Swatches: Look for online reviews and swatches to see how the shades appear on different skin tones.
- When in Doubt, Mix: Don’t be afraid to purchase two shades and mix them to create your perfect match.
If you’re unsure, it’s always best to err on the side of caution and choose a shade that’s slightly lighter than your skin tone. You can always add warmth and depth with contour and bronzer.
Long-Term Care and Storage for Your StarBlend Kit
Proper care and storage are essential for extending the life of your Mehron StarBlend Cake Kit:
- Keep It Dry: Store the kit in a cool, dry place away from moisture.
- Clean Your Tools: Regularly clean your brushes and sponges to prevent bacterial growth.
- Avoid Direct Sunlight: Exposure to direct sunlight can cause the colors to fade.
- Close the Lid Tightly: Ensure the lid is tightly closed when not in use to prevent the cakes from drying out.
Final Verdict: Is the Mehron StarBlend Cake Kit Worth It?
In conclusion, the Mehron StarBlend Cake Kit in medium shades is a fantastic investment for anyone who needs a versatile, high-performing makeup for various purposes. Its excellent pigmentation, blendability, and long-lasting wear make it a standout product in the world of cake makeup. While there may be a slight learning curve involved, the results are well worth the effort. Whether you’re a theatrical performer, cosplayer, makeup artist, or simply someone who loves full-coverage makeup, the Mehron StarBlend Cake Kit is sure to become a staple in your collection.
It’s ability to create natural and striking looks makes it a valuable addition to any makeup collection. The Medium Shade Magic is not just a title; it is a promise of versatility and quality. Explore the creative potential and unleash your inner artist with this exceptional makeup kit. Dive into the transformative power of Mehron StarBlend Cake Kit and redefine your makeup experience.