MAC Full Coverage Foundation NW45: My Honest Review

Finding the perfect foundation can feel like searching for the holy grail. As someone with a medium-dark skin tone and occasional hyperpigmentation, I’m always on the lookout for a foundation that provides excellent coverage without looking cakey or feeling heavy. The MAC Full Coverage Foundation in NW45 has been on my radar for quite some time, so I decided to put it to the test. Here’s my honest review after using it consistently for several weeks.

First Impressions and Packaging

The MAC Full Coverage Foundation comes in a simple, no-nonsense tube. The packaging is practical and travel-friendly, although it might not win any awards for aesthetics. The squeeze tube allows for easy dispensing of the product, minimizing waste.

The shade range is quite extensive, which is a definite plus for MAC. NW45 is described as a neutral-warm shade suitable for medium-dark skin tones. Upon first application, the color appeared to be a good match for my complexion, but I noticed it oxidized slightly after a few hours.

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Application and Blendability

I’ve tried applying this foundation with various tools: a beauty sponge, a foundation brush, and even my fingers. I found that a damp beauty sponge provided the most seamless and natural-looking finish. The foundation is quite thick, so a little goes a long way.

Blending can be a bit challenging due to its high coverage. It’s important to work quickly and in small sections to avoid streaks. I recommend prepping the skin with a hydrating primer to ensure a smooth application. Without proper hydration, it can cling to dry patches and accentuate texture.

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Coverage and Finish

As the name suggests, this foundation offers full coverage. It effectively conceals blemishes, hyperpigmentation, and uneven skin tone. If you’re looking for a foundation that can cover almost anything, this is definitely a contender.

The finish is matte, which I appreciate as someone with combination skin. It controls shine for a decent amount of time, but I do find myself needing to blot my T-zone after a few hours. Those with dry skin might find it too drying, so moisturizing is crucial.

One potential downside is that it can look a bit heavy if not applied carefully. It’s easy to cross the line from full coverage to cakey, so start with a small amount and build up as needed.

Longevity and Wear

The longevity of this foundation is impressive. It stays put for a good 8-10 hours with minimal fading or creasing. However, as mentioned earlier, it does tend to oxidize slightly, so choosing the right shade is crucial.

I’ve worn this foundation in various weather conditions, and it holds up fairly well. It doesn’t melt off in the heat, but it can transfer slightly if you’re not careful. Setting it with a good powder and using a setting spray can help prolong its wear.

Suitability for Different Skin Types

This foundation can work for different skin types, but it requires some adjustments:

Oily Skin: This foundation is a good option as it provides a matte finish and helps control shine. Be sure to use a mattifying primer and setting powder.
Dry Skin: Moisturize thoroughly before applying this foundation. Mix it with a hydrating serum or facial oil for a more dewy finish.
Combination Skin: Use a hydrating primer on dry areas and a mattifying primer on oily areas. Set with a translucent powder.
Sensitive Skin: Always do a patch test before applying this foundation to your entire face. It contains ingredients that may irritate sensitive skin.

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Pros and Cons

Here’s a quick rundown of the pros and cons of the MAC Full Coverage Foundation in NW45:

Pros:

Excellent coverage
Long-lasting wear
Matte finish
Extensive shade range
Travel-friendly packaging

Cons:

Can look cakey if not applied carefully
Can be drying for some skin types
May oxidize slightly
Requires quick blending

Comparison with Other Full Coverage Foundations

Let’s see how the MAC Full Coverage Foundation stacks up against some other popular full-coverage options:

Foundation	Coverage	Finish	Longevity	Price
MAC Full Coverage Foundation	Full	Matte	8-10 hours	$$
Estée Lauder Double Wear Stay-in-Place Foundation	Full	Matte	Up to 24 hours	$$$
Fenty Beauty Pro Filt’r Soft Matte Longwear Foundation	Full	Matte	8-10 hours	$$
KVD Beauty Lock-It Foundation	Full	Matte	8-10 hours	$$

Price Guide:

$: Under $20
$$: $20-$40
$$$: Over $40

Tips and Tricks for Application

To get the most out of the MAC Full Coverage Foundation, here are some tips and tricks I’ve learned:

Prep your skin: Exfoliate and moisturize your skin before applying the foundation. This will create a smooth canvas and prevent the foundation from clinging to dry patches.
Use a primer: Choose a primer that suits your skin type. A hydrating primer for dry skin, a mattifying primer for oily skin, and a smoothing primer for textured skin.
Apply in thin layers: Start with a small amount of foundation and build up as needed. This will prevent the foundation from looking cakey.
Use a damp beauty sponge: A damp beauty sponge will help blend the foundation seamlessly into the skin.
Set with powder: Use a translucent powder to set the foundation and prevent it from creasing.
Use a setting spray: A setting spray will help prolong the wear of the foundation and keep it looking fresh throughout the day.

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The Importance of Shade Matching

Finding the right shade is paramount for any foundation, but especially crucial with full coverage formulas. A shade that’s too light can make you look ashy, while one that’s too dark can appear muddy. MAC offers a wide range of shades, making it easier to find a match, but it’s still important to consider a few factors.

Undertones: Determine whether you have warm, cool, or neutral undertones. NW shades in MAC typically cater to neutral-warm undertones.
Oxidation: As mentioned before, this foundation can oxidize. Test the shade on your jawline and check it in natural light after about 15-20 minutes to see if it changes color.
Seasonal Changes: Your skin tone may change depending on the season. You might need a lighter shade in the winter and a darker shade in the summer.

Visiting a MAC store for a professional shade matching is always a good idea. Alternatively, you can use online shade-matching tools or consult with a makeup artist.

Is MAC Full Coverage Foundation Worth It?

Overall, the MAC Full Coverage Foundation in NW45 is a solid choice for those seeking high coverage and a matte finish. It’s long-lasting and effectively conceals imperfections. However, it requires careful application and may not be suitable for all skin types.

If you have oily or combination skin and are looking for a foundation that can withstand long days, this is definitely worth considering. If you have dry skin, be sure to prep your skin well and use a hydrating primer.

Ultimately, whether or not this foundation is “worth it” depends on your individual needs and preferences. I hope this review has helped you make an informed decision!

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Alternatives to MAC Full Coverage Foundation

If the MAC Full Coverage Foundation doesn’t sound like the perfect fit for you, don’t worry! There are plenty of other excellent full coverage foundations on the market. Here are a few alternatives to consider:

Estée Lauder Double Wear Stay-in-Place Foundation: This is a cult-favorite foundation known for its long-lasting wear and full coverage. It’s a great option for oily skin, but it can be drying for dry skin.
Fenty Beauty Pro Filt’r Soft Matte Longwear Foundation: This foundation offers full coverage with a soft matte finish. It’s available in a wide range of shades and is suitable for most skin types.
KVD Beauty Lock-It Foundation: This is a vegan foundation that provides full coverage and a matte finish. It’s a good option for those with oily or combination skin.
Dermablend Cover Creme: This foundation is designed to cover severe skin imperfections, such as scars, tattoos, and vitiligo. It provides extremely high coverage and is long-lasting.
L’Oréal Paris Infallible Total Cover Foundation: A more affordable option that still delivers impressive full coverage. It’s lightweight and comfortable to wear.

My Final Thoughts

The MAC Full Coverage Foundation in NW45 has earned a spot in my makeup rotation, but it’s not my everyday go-to. I reserve it for special occasions or days when I need extra coverage. It delivers on its promise of full coverage and long wear, but it requires some skill to apply flawlessly.

If you’re willing to put in the effort to find the right shade and master the application technique, this foundation can be a game-changer. But if you prefer a more natural or low-maintenance look, there may be better options out there.

Thank you for reading my review! I hope it was helpful.

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Foundation Application Troubleshooting

Even with the best foundation, issues can arise during application. Let’s troubleshoot some common problems:

Cakey Appearance: This often results from using too much product. Start with a pea-sized amount and build gradually. Ensure your skin is well-moisturized beforehand. Consider using a hydrating setting spray to melt the makeup into the skin.
Foundation Clinging to Dry Patches: Exfoliate regularly to remove dead skin cells. Use a rich moisturizer and a hydrating primer. You can also mix a drop of facial oil into your foundation for added hydration.
Foundation Separating: This can be caused by incompatible skincare products or applying foundation over oily skin. Ensure your skincare is fully absorbed before applying primer and foundation. Use a mattifying primer if you have oily skin.
Foundation Oxidizing: Choose a shade slightly lighter than your skin tone, considering that it will darken slightly. You can also use an anti-oxidation primer.
Uneven Application: Use a damp beauty sponge or a densely packed foundation brush for even application. Work in small sections and blend thoroughly.

Foundation Ingredients and Skin Concerns

Understanding the ingredients in your foundation is crucial, especially if you have sensitive skin or specific skin concerns. Here’s a breakdown of common ingredients and their potential effects:

Silicones (e.g., Dimethicone, Cyclopentasiloxane): These provide a smooth, silky feel and help fill in pores and fine lines. However, some people find they can clog pores or cause breakouts.
Oils (e.g., Mineral Oil, Jojoba Oil): These can provide hydration and a dewy finish. Choose non-comedogenic oils to minimize the risk of breakouts.
SPF (e.g., Titanium Dioxide, Zinc Oxide): Provides sun protection, which is essential for preventing premature aging and skin damage.
Preservatives (e.g., Parabens, Phenoxyethanol): Prevent bacterial growth and extend the shelf life of the product. Some people are sensitive to certain preservatives.
Pigments (e.g., Iron Oxides): Provide color to the foundation.

If you have sensitive skin, look for foundations that are fragrance-free, hypoallergenic, and non-comedogenic. Always do a patch test before applying a new foundation to your entire face.

Extending the Life of Your Foundation

To make your MAC Full Coverage Foundation last even longer, here are some tips:

Store Properly: Keep your foundation in a cool, dry place away from direct sunlight.
Clean Applicators: Wash your beauty sponges and brushes regularly to prevent bacteria buildup and ensure smooth application.
Close the Lid Tightly: Prevent the foundation from drying out by ensuring the lid is tightly closed after each use.
Don’t Share: Sharing makeup can spread bacteria and lead to breakouts.