Is it worth it? MAC Studio Fix Fluid Foundation
Yes, I am a deep bargain hunter when it comes to cosmetics. But when it comes down to foundation, I will shell out the extra dough if necessary. Lately, I have been using MAC Studio Fix Fluid in NC37. And we all know well that MAC is not cheap!
Let’s see if MAC Studio Fix Fluid was worth the price…
Product Details:
- MAC Studio Fix Fluid is the liquid version of their classic Studio Fix Foundation
- Oil-Free and long-wearing formula
- Includes SPF 15 for everyday protection
Approx. Price: $26 for a 1 oz. bottle
Where to Purchase? MAC Online, Macy’s, MAC retail store
The Bottom Line:
Is $26 for MAC Studio Fix Fluid worth it? In my opinion, it definitely is! This is a great foundation. What I love about MAC Cosmetics is that they have a vast color selection. For reference, I have slightly tanned and sensitve Asian skin with strong yellow undertones. MAC Studio Fix Fluid in NC37 is a perfect match for me. This foundation provides my skin the coverage it needs. You only need a pea-sized amount for excellent coverage. After one application, my skin looks flawless and more even toned. For that flawless look, I recommend using a stippling brush for applying the foundation – It will eliminate cakiness and you will not pick up too much product. In the past, I have used MAC Studio Fix Foundation in powder form and it broke me out in whiteheads. Amazingly, this liquid version of the foundation did not break me out.
It has not reached my HG (holy grail) status, because there are some flaws. Flaw #1: It does not come with a with a foundation pump. That sucker will set you back another $5. Flaw #2: If you have dry skin, it will accentuate your dry skin. Applying moisturizer right before applying the foundation may help a bit.
Other than its minor flaws, if you’re looking a liquid foundation that has excellent coverage, try out MAC Studio Fix Fluid. If you hate it, remember you can always return it.
Popularity: 49% [?]
September 2nd, 2009 at 12:50 am
same with you, it hasn’t reach to my HG status yet. I have dry skin and it doesn’t work for dry skin…if you want use Mineralized Skinfinish
September 2nd, 2009 at 2:05 am
I have this foundation too, and I like it a lot. Revlon Colorstay is very similar if you can find a corresponding foundation shade. I actually switch between colorstay and studiofix.
September 2nd, 2009 at 7:01 am
Nikki – You would think that a liquid foundation will be better for dry skin. I heard from a SA, that sculpt foundation is more creamer and better for dry skin. I have tried Mineralized Skinfinish, it was too sheer for me. I need more coverage. I’m still in the search for my HG foundation!
T – I’ve tried Colorstay as well, but I could not find a perfect match.
September 2nd, 2009 at 6:32 pm
I would really like to try a Mac someday, currently satisfied with REvlon Colorstay
September 2nd, 2009 at 6:46 pm
Great review! Finding a good foundation can be a task & agree that sometimes you have to splurge when it comes to foundations. I’m not fan of MAC foundation (except for the Studio Fix powder) but you’ve tempted me with this one:)
September 2nd, 2009 at 7:49 pm
AtelierGal – If you’re satisfied with Revlon Colorstay, then stick with it. Revlon Colorstay is a fraction cheaper than MAC.
Monica – I was not a fan of Studio Fix powder, because it broke me out. Do you have a HG foundation?
September 2nd, 2009 at 8:28 pm
I wish I could love MAC foundations but they always break me out including this one. I had the exact colour.
My HG foundation is Diorskin Nude.
September 2nd, 2009 at 9:11 pm
Michelle – What kind of breakouts did you get from this? I’m sorry that happened to you.
September 3rd, 2009 at 7:59 am
I agree with spending more money on specific items but I have to say that after venturing out into the product addled world, it is hard to keep giving MAC the scarlet mark of expensive because in reality, it really is kind of the midmark
In any case – with most of them I feel like my money was well spent.
September 3rd, 2009 at 10:30 am
Yaya – When it comes to skincare, I definitely will shell out more money if it works for me. You don’t want to ruin your skin, because it takes longer to repair. MAC is expensive for my standards =)
November 13th, 2009 at 12:10 pm
I been using studio fix (NC42) for about a year … love it!!!!!
I agree it is more expensive than drugstore foundations, it is worth the money. It leaves my skin flawless and I do not need a lot to get great coverage. If you can splurge on something it better be your foundation.
November 13th, 2009 at 1:00 pm
Johanna – This has been my go to foundation for the winter, since I have drier skin. I agree with you in that it is okay to splurge on foundation.
May 9th, 2010 at 7:56 pm
I just started using this foundation and found that for me it was worth the money. I have always used drugstore foundation and random highend. I just thought if my main concern is to have a good canvas to put everything else on I would spend alitte extra. The Colorstay was okay. I could just never find my perfect match. I always had to buy 2 and mix them. I’m an NC40 and for right now I’m pretty happy.
May 9th, 2010 at 8:57 pm
Rita – I’m glad that you’re happy with your purchase =). When it comes to foundation, I usually purchase the high end and department stores brand. I agree that it is important to start with a good canvas prior to makeup application.
October 21st, 2010 at 10:20 am
I love this foundation! No other one can compare!
It is worth the money because it works great and lasts for a long time.
April 7th, 2011 at 8:19 pm
Is studio fix powder NC40 same as liquid? I want to switch to liquid.
April 7th, 2011 at 9:05 pm
Gigi – The Studio Fix Powder and Liquid both provide great coverage, but they are quite different. Depending on your type of skin, the liquid and powder form will look different on you. If you have normal to oily skin, I would recommend the powder. If you have skin on the drier side, give the liquid version a try. Personally, the liquid foundation is a better fit for me. Hope this helps! And remember, if it doesn’t work out for you, you can always return it!
April 24th, 2011 at 6:59 pm
I also want to switch to liquid. I use NC 40 powder now. Would I still use NC40 in liquid?
April 25th, 2011 at 12:06 am
TT – I would check out the MAC counter first. For Studio Fix Powder, I’m NC35. For liquid, I’m NC37.
May 15th, 2011 at 4:46 am
Thanks for this post. In general, I can say that it is a a good post.
August 7th, 2011 at 10:13 am
I have very oily skin but this foundation is amazing! It gives me full coverage over my acne blemishes with just one layer, and dries over giving my face a matte yet natural-looking finish. Just pat on some studio fix powder over it and you’re good to go
August 7th, 2011 at 10:25 am
Tarin – I’m glad you like this foundation. Ever since I reviewed this, I’ve been using it since!
October 21st, 2011 at 3:06 pm
i just purchased this one yesrterday it is too dark for u it leaves your skin really smooth .. if u want an almost matte finish do not buy it .. try it on and take a look at it in natural light … it will be best other wise u will not be sattisfied
October 21st, 2011 at 4:33 pm
Belen – Thanks for your suggestion!
November 22nd, 2011 at 5:11 pm
I just purchased Mac Studio Fix Powder Foundation in Nc40, it’s too light and pinkish on me, when I returned it to MAC Counter to exchange it for a darker shade, they insisted that it’s my match. Sadly, it can’t be exchanged because I used it already, so I end up buying Mac Studio Fix Fluid Foundation in NC42, but it didn’t go well either,My skin became flaky even if I use a moisturizer. I wish we have the same consumer rights here in the Philippines….
November 22nd, 2011 at 7:28 pm
Monique – They won’t let you exchange the product after its used? That is odd! I would assume the customer service would be consistent. I’m sorry that those products didn’t work out for you. From your comments, it looks like you might have dry skin. Have you tried looking into their cream foundations? Or better yet, before purchasing the product at full size, maybe you can ask for a sample to bring home? Hope this helps!
January 17th, 2012 at 3:41 am
I have just recently exchanged my mineralized satin finish NC25 for the Studiofix Fluid in NC20 as the satin finish tends to glitter and enhance my dry spots without a full
Coverage. I am loving the Studiofix which gives fuller coverage with a matted finish however it has a pinkish hue visible in sunlight. Flawless indoors though.
January 17th, 2012 at 9:28 am
Alice – I’m glad you are loving the StudioFix. I tried Mineralized Satin Finish and it broke me out like no other!
February 9th, 2012 at 9:03 pm
I’m from NZ and lived in england last year where I was so thrilled to find this foundation for £26 (NZ$49) in NZ this foundation is at the $70 ish mark (£36) Love this though, coverage is good but not too makeuppy..not my HG as I have oily skin, and this just doesn’t stay all day
..yet to find my HGF! X
February 10th, 2012 at 12:30 pm
Li – Thanks for your comments!! Maybe a foundation primer might help with staying power.