MAC Red-Hot Times Nine Eyeshadow Palette Review, Photos, Swatches
Red-Hot Times Nine
MAC Red-Hot Times Nine Eyeshadow Palette ($32.00 for 0.18 oz.) includes nine, dime-sized eyeshadows. For the types of colors and finishes included in the palette, it was actually not bad. I’d definitely suggest using this with a primer to improve blendability and pigmentation across the palette, though.
Look Using this Product
Red-Hot Times Nine
LELimited Edition. $32.00.
Vanilla
Vanilla is a light beige with warm undertones and a matte finish. It had a soft, smooth consistency that was a touch powdery in the pan but applied evenly on the lid. It had good pigmentation, which was buildable to opaque coverage with a second layer. This shade lasted for seven and a half hours on me. (This eyeshadow is part of the permanent range.)
FURTHER READING: Formula Overview for details on general performance and characteristics (like scent).
Top Dupes
- Laura Mercier Buttercream (PiP, $23.00) is less shimmery (95% similar).
- Bobbi Brown Bone (PiP, $22.00) is warmer (95% similar).
- Urban Decay Righteous (LE, $19.00) is more muted (95% similar).
- Wet 'n' Wild The Night's Quad #2 (LE, ) is more muted (90% similar).
- Wet 'n' Wild Newport Nights #1 (LE, ) is darker (95% similar).
- Urban Decay Anonymous (LE, $19.00) is more muted (95% similar).
- KVD Beauty Rust (Highlight) (PiP, ) is warmer (95% similar).
- Too Faced Meow (LE, $16.00) is more muted (95% similar).
- ColourPop Center Stage (LE, $4.50) is cooler (95% similar).
- Too Faced Dream On (LE, $16.00) is darker (95% similar).
Formula Overview
$17.00/0.05 oz. - $340.00 Per Ounce
The formula is supposed to be a "highly pigmented powder" that goes on "evenly and blends well." MAC eyeshadows run the gamut from total failures to long-time, cult-favorite staples. In general, the permanent line has been more consistent in performance--and higher performance at that--compared to limited edition launches, but it can really depend.
The Matte finish tends to have a firmer press and a bit of thinness compared to other matte formulas on the market, so MAC matte eyeshadows tend to build up better and have better wear-time without fallout as they're not powdery at all. Some of the newer matte finish shades have had a more velvety quality to them that gives them a softer feel but aren't powdery; these have been easier to blend and are often more pigmented in one layer.
The Lustre finish is designed to have sheerer pigmentation, and it often has more sheer to medium coverage with a drier, dustier consistency that can be hard to apply with a dry brush. Lustre finish shades can suffer from fallout during application, too. They are the old school version of an eyeshadow "topper." I would recommend applying with a fingertip or applying with a dampened brush to get smoother, more even coverage and minimize fallout.
The Satin finish is few and far in-between, but it is softer and more yielding than the Matte finish but performs similarly. They tend to have very low sheen but are quite blendable with medium to opaque coverage. It can be easy to mix the finish up with the Velvet finish, which has more of a sparkle-over-matte effect but are more powdery than the true Matte finish.
The Frost finish is more firmly-pressed into the pan but doesn't have fallout, is often pigmented, and blends out well enough. They can sometimes be a little drier to the touch depending on how much shimmer is in the shade. The Veluxe Pearl finish is one of the creamier takes within the range, and newer shades released in the finish tend to have more moderate, silicone-like slip. I've found that Veluxe Pearl finish shades tend to have more semi-opaque pigmentation and are more consistent in performance than some of the other finishes.
One thing I've found with MAC eyeshadows is that they tend to last longer without primer than the average brand (eight hours). While some eyeshadow shades don't swatch well, they often apply better in practice--as in on the eyes!--than just swatched on the skin. They can be quite hit or miss, and they have inconsistencies between releases (see Carbon and its sordid review history!).
Browse all of our MAC Eyeshadow swatches.
Vanilla
PPermanent. $17.00.
For Your Pleasure
For Your Pleasure is a dusty, medium pink with neutral-to-warm undertones and a matte finish. It was slightly dusty in the pan, but it had opaque coverage that was easily blended and applied on the lid. This shade started to fade after eight hours of wear.
FURTHER READING: Formula Overview for details on general performance and characteristics (like scent).
Top Dupes
- Makeup Atelier Wood Pink #3 (P, ) is lighter (95% similar).
- IT Cosmetics Desire (P, ) is lighter (90% similar).
- BH Cosmetics Carli Bybel Deluxe Edition #8 (LE, ) is warmer (90% similar).
- bareMinerals Beautiful (LE, ) is lighter, warmer (90% similar).
- Urban Decay Backtalk (LE, $19.00) is lighter (85% similar).
- ColourPop Winning Ticket (PiP, $4.50) is darker, warmer (85% similar).
- Chanel Rose de Mai (P, $29.50) is lighter, warmer (85% similar).
- ColourPop Dreamboat (LE, $4.50) is warmer (85% similar).
- KVD Beauty Plum (Base) (PiP, ) is lighter, warmer (85% similar).
- NARS Douce France #2 (DC, $25.00) is lighter, cooler (90% similar).
Formula Overview
$17.00/0.05 oz. - $340.00 Per Ounce
The formula is supposed to be a "highly pigmented powder" that goes on "evenly and blends well." MAC eyeshadows run the gamut from total failures to long-time, cult-favorite staples. In general, the permanent line has been more consistent in performance--and higher performance at that--compared to limited edition launches, but it can really depend.
The Matte finish tends to have a firmer press and a bit of thinness compared to other matte formulas on the market, so MAC matte eyeshadows tend to build up better and have better wear-time without fallout as they're not powdery at all. Some of the newer matte finish shades have had a more velvety quality to them that gives them a softer feel but aren't powdery; these have been easier to blend and are often more pigmented in one layer.
The Lustre finish is designed to have sheerer pigmentation, and it often has more sheer to medium coverage with a drier, dustier consistency that can be hard to apply with a dry brush. Lustre finish shades can suffer from fallout during application, too. They are the old school version of an eyeshadow "topper." I would recommend applying with a fingertip or applying with a dampened brush to get smoother, more even coverage and minimize fallout.
The Satin finish is few and far in-between, but it is softer and more yielding than the Matte finish but performs similarly. They tend to have very low sheen but are quite blendable with medium to opaque coverage. It can be easy to mix the finish up with the Velvet finish, which has more of a sparkle-over-matte effect but are more powdery than the true Matte finish.
The Frost finish is more firmly-pressed into the pan but doesn't have fallout, is often pigmented, and blends out well enough. They can sometimes be a little drier to the touch depending on how much shimmer is in the shade. The Veluxe Pearl finish is one of the creamier takes within the range, and newer shades released in the finish tend to have more moderate, silicone-like slip. I've found that Veluxe Pearl finish shades tend to have more semi-opaque pigmentation and are more consistent in performance than some of the other finishes.
One thing I've found with MAC eyeshadows is that they tend to last longer without primer than the average brand (eight hours). While some eyeshadow shades don't swatch well, they often apply better in practice--as in on the eyes!--than just swatched on the skin. They can be quite hit or miss, and they have inconsistencies between releases (see Carbon and its sordid review history!).
Browse all of our MAC Eyeshadow swatches.
Look Using this Product
For Your Pleasure
LELimited Edition. $17.00.
Get Closer
Get Closer is a pop of medium orange with warm, reddish undertones and a satin finish. It had good color coverage, though a little shy of truly opaque coverage, that applied evenly to the skin. The texture was slightly drier to the touch, but I didn’t notice that in practice. It lasted for eight hours on me.
FURTHER READING: Formula Overview for details on general performance and characteristics (like scent).
Top Dupes
- Chanel Rouge-Gorge (116) (LE, $32.00) is less shimmery (95% similar).
- Dior Pareo (P, $29.00) is darker (95% similar).
- Milani Bella Mandarin (27) (P, $4.49) is lighter (95% similar).
- MAC Apricot Blend #3 (LE, ) is lighter (95% similar).
- MAC Up at Dawn (P, $17.00) is less shimmery (95% similar).
- Make Up For Ever I722 Mandarin (DC, $17.00) is more shimmery, lighter (95% similar).
- ColourPop Citrus Dream (LE, $4.50) is less shimmery (95% similar).
- ColourPop Lola (LE, $4.50) is less shimmery, cooler (90% similar).
- Anastasia Papaya (LE, $12.00) is less shimmery, cooler (90% similar).
- ColourPop Slip Dress (LE, $4.50) is less shimmery, warmer (90% similar).
Formula Overview
$17.00/0.05 oz. - $340.00 Per Ounce
The formula is supposed to be a "highly pigmented powder" that goes on "evenly and blends well." MAC eyeshadows run the gamut from total failures to long-time, cult-favorite staples. In general, the permanent line has been more consistent in performance--and higher performance at that--compared to limited edition launches, but it can really depend.
The Matte finish tends to have a firmer press and a bit of thinness compared to other matte formulas on the market, so MAC matte eyeshadows tend to build up better and have better wear-time without fallout as they're not powdery at all. Some of the newer matte finish shades have had a more velvety quality to them that gives them a softer feel but aren't powdery; these have been easier to blend and are often more pigmented in one layer.
The Lustre finish is designed to have sheerer pigmentation, and it often has more sheer to medium coverage with a drier, dustier consistency that can be hard to apply with a dry brush. Lustre finish shades can suffer from fallout during application, too. They are the old school version of an eyeshadow "topper." I would recommend applying with a fingertip or applying with a dampened brush to get smoother, more even coverage and minimize fallout.
The Satin finish is few and far in-between, but it is softer and more yielding than the Matte finish but performs similarly. They tend to have very low sheen but are quite blendable with medium to opaque coverage. It can be easy to mix the finish up with the Velvet finish, which has more of a sparkle-over-matte effect but are more powdery than the true Matte finish.
The Frost finish is more firmly-pressed into the pan but doesn't have fallout, is often pigmented, and blends out well enough. They can sometimes be a little drier to the touch depending on how much shimmer is in the shade. The Veluxe Pearl finish is one of the creamier takes within the range, and newer shades released in the finish tend to have more moderate, silicone-like slip. I've found that Veluxe Pearl finish shades tend to have more semi-opaque pigmentation and are more consistent in performance than some of the other finishes.
One thing I've found with MAC eyeshadows is that they tend to last longer without primer than the average brand (eight hours). While some eyeshadow shades don't swatch well, they often apply better in practice--as in on the eyes!--than just swatched on the skin. They can be quite hit or miss, and they have inconsistencies between releases (see Carbon and its sordid review history!).
Browse all of our MAC Eyeshadow swatches.
Look Using this Product
Get Closer
LELimited Edition. $17.00.
Carnal Charm
Carnal Charm is a bright, medium-dark red with warm undertones and a matte finish. The color payoff was mostly opaque, and it built up well, though it seemed to go on darker than it appeared in the pan. The consistency was firm without being too stiff in the pan, so I was able to get product onto my brush without issue, but it could have been more blendable on the lid. It started to fade after eight hours of wear.
FURTHER READING: Formula Overview for details on general performance and characteristics (like scent).
Top Dupes
- ColourPop Making Moves (P, $4.50) is lighter (95% similar).
- ColourPop Be Cool (LE, $4.50) is more shimmery (95% similar).
- ColourPop Remote (PiP, $4.50) is warmer (95% similar).
- ColourPop Summer Fling (PiP, $4.50) is lighter (95% similar).
- KVD Beauty Destroyer (LE, ) is cooler (95% similar).
- Anastasia E4 (Norvina Vol. 1) (LE, ) is lighter, warmer (95% similar).
- MAC Strike While Haute (LE, $17.00) is lighter (95% similar).
- ColourPop Girls Rock (LE, $4.50) is lighter, warmer (95% similar).
- ColourPop Sunday Soiree (LE, $4.50) is cooler (95% similar).
- NABLA Cosmetics Feelings (PiP, $8.00) is lighter, warmer (90% similar).
Formula Overview
$17.00/0.05 oz. - $340.00 Per Ounce
The formula is supposed to be a "highly pigmented powder" that goes on "evenly and blends well." MAC eyeshadows run the gamut from total failures to long-time, cult-favorite staples. In general, the permanent line has been more consistent in performance--and higher performance at that--compared to limited edition launches, but it can really depend.
The Matte finish tends to have a firmer press and a bit of thinness compared to other matte formulas on the market, so MAC matte eyeshadows tend to build up better and have better wear-time without fallout as they're not powdery at all. Some of the newer matte finish shades have had a more velvety quality to them that gives them a softer feel but aren't powdery; these have been easier to blend and are often more pigmented in one layer.
The Lustre finish is designed to have sheerer pigmentation, and it often has more sheer to medium coverage with a drier, dustier consistency that can be hard to apply with a dry brush. Lustre finish shades can suffer from fallout during application, too. They are the old school version of an eyeshadow "topper." I would recommend applying with a fingertip or applying with a dampened brush to get smoother, more even coverage and minimize fallout.
The Satin finish is few and far in-between, but it is softer and more yielding than the Matte finish but performs similarly. They tend to have very low sheen but are quite blendable with medium to opaque coverage. It can be easy to mix the finish up with the Velvet finish, which has more of a sparkle-over-matte effect but are more powdery than the true Matte finish.
The Frost finish is more firmly-pressed into the pan but doesn't have fallout, is often pigmented, and blends out well enough. They can sometimes be a little drier to the touch depending on how much shimmer is in the shade. The Veluxe Pearl finish is one of the creamier takes within the range, and newer shades released in the finish tend to have more moderate, silicone-like slip. I've found that Veluxe Pearl finish shades tend to have more semi-opaque pigmentation and are more consistent in performance than some of the other finishes.
One thing I've found with MAC eyeshadows is that they tend to last longer without primer than the average brand (eight hours). While some eyeshadow shades don't swatch well, they often apply better in practice--as in on the eyes!--than just swatched on the skin. They can be quite hit or miss, and they have inconsistencies between releases (see Carbon and its sordid review history!).
Browse all of our MAC Eyeshadow swatches.
Ingredients
Talc , Zinc Stearate , Octyldodecyl Stearoyl Stearate , Isostearyl Neopentanoate , Tocopheryl Acetate , Caprylyl Glycol , Hexylene Glycol , Phenoxyethanol , [+/- Silica , Mica , Titanium Dioxide (Ci 77891) , Iron Oxides (Ci 77491, Ci 77492, Ci 77499) , Bismuth Oxychloride (Ci 77163) , Blue 1 Lake (Ci 42090) , Carmine (Ci 75470) , Chromium Hydroxide Green (Ci 77289) , Chromium Oxide Greens (Ci 77288) , Ferric Ferrocyanide (Ci 77510) , Manganese Violet (Ci 77742) , Red 40 Lake (Ci 16035) , Ultramarines (Ci 77007) , Yellow 5 Lake (Ci 19140)] Rds Product Name: Eye Shadow (Veluxe Pearl) Division: Mc (Mac)Ingredients: Talc , Zinc Stearate , Nylon-12 , Dimethicone , Octyldodecyl Stearoyl Stearate , Isostearyl Neopentanoate , Glycine Soja (Soybean) Seed Extract , Hordeum Vulgare (Barley) ExtractExtrait D'Orge , Triticum Vulgare (Wheat) Germ Extract , Tocopheryl Acetate , Ascorbyl Palmitate , Squalane , Caprylyl Glycol , Hexylene Glycol , Ceramide 3 , Cholesterol , Silica , Triethoxycaprylylsilane , Linoleic Acid , Phenoxyethanol , [+/- Mica , Titanium Dioxide (Ci 77891) , Iron Oxides (Ci 77491, Ci 77492, Ci 77499) , Bismuth Oxychloride (Ci 77163) , Blue 1 Lake (Ci 42090) , Carmine (Ci 75470) , Chromium Hydroxide Green (Ci 77289) , Chromium Oxide Greens (Ci 77288) , Ferric Ferrocyanide (Ci 77510) , Manganese Violet (Ci 77742) , Ultramarines (Ci 77007) , Yellow 5 Lake (Ci 19140)] Rds Product Name: Eye Shadow (Mac) Division: Mc (Mac)Ingredients: Talc , Zinc Stearate , Octyldodecyl Stearoyl Stearate , Isostearyl Neopentanoate , Tocopheryl Acetate , Synthetic Fluorphlogopite , Calcium Aluminum Borosilicate , Calcium Sodium Borosilicate , Aluminum Calcium Sodium Silicate , Triethoxycaprylylsilane , Tin Oxide , Silica , Caprylyl Glycol , Hexylene Glycol , Phenoxyethanol , [+/- Mica , Titanium Dioxide (Ci 77891) , Bismuth Oxychloride (Ci 77163) , Iron Oxides (Ci 77491, Ci 77492, Ci 77499) , Blue 1 Lake (Ci 42090) , Bronze Powder (Ci 77400) , Carmine (Ci 75470) , Chromium Hydroxide Green (Ci 77289) , Chromium Oxide Greens (Ci 77288) , Copper Powder (Ci 77400) , Ferric Ammonium Ferrocyanide (Ci 77510) , Ferric Ferrocyanide (Ci 77510) , Manganese Violet (Ci 77742) , Red 40 Lake (Ci 16035) , Ultramarines (Ci 77007) , Yellow 5 Lake (Ci 19140)] Rds Product Name: Powder Blush Division: Mc (Mac)Ingredients: Talc , Zinc Stearate , Calcium Aluminum Borosilicate , Octyldodecyl Stearoyl Stearate , Aluminum Calcium Sodium Silicate , Synthetic Fluorphlogopite , Isostearyl Neopentanoate , Calcium Sodium Borosilicate , Silica , Tocopheryl Acetate , Triethoxycaprylylsilane , Tin Oxide , Titanium/Titanium Dioxide , Caprylyl Glycol , Hexylene Glycol , Phenoxyethanol , [+/- Mica , Titanium Dioxide (Ci 77891) , Iron Oxides (Ci 77491) , Iron Oxides (Ci 77492) , Iron Oxides (Ci 77499) , Bismuth Oxychloride (Ci 77163) , Blue 1 Lake (Ci 42090) , Bronze Powder (Ci 77400) , Carmine (Ci 75470) , Chromium Hydroxide Green (Ci 77289) , Chromium Oxide Greens (Ci 77288) , Copper Powder (Ci 77400) , Ferric Ammonium Ferrocyanide (Ci 77510) , Ferric Ferrocyanide (Ci 77510) , Manganese Violet (Ci 77742) , Red 6 (Ci 15850) , Red 28 (Ci 45410) , Red 6 Lake (Ci 15850) , Red 7 Lake (Ci 15850) , Red 28 Lake (Ci 45410) , Red 30 Lake (Ci 73360) , Red 40 Lake (Ci 16035) , Ultramarines (Ci 77007) , Yellow 5 Lake (Ci 19140) , Yellow 6 Lake (Ci 15985)]
Disclaimer: Ingredient lists are as available by the brand (or retailer) at the time of publishing. Please always check product packaging, if it exists, for the ingredient list applicable to the product you're purchasing, or the brand or retailer's website for the most up-to-date ingredient list.
Carnal Charm
LELimited Edition. $17.00.
Bijou
Bijou is a medium-dark fuchsia pink with cool undertones and a matte finish. The pigmentation was great, while the texture was soft, smooth, and just a touch dusty. It applied evenly and lasted for eight hours on me.
FURTHER READING: Formula Overview for details on general performance and characteristics (like scent).
Top Dupes
- Coloured Raine Daydream (PiP, ) is darker (95% similar).
- Makeup Geek Unleashed (P, $9.00) is warmer (95% similar).
- Urban Decay 1960 (LE, $19.00) is lighter (95% similar).
- ColourPop Fair Play (LE, $4.50) is darker (95% similar).
- Huda Beauty Doll Face (PiP, ) is lighter (95% similar).
- Wet 'n' Wild Your 15 Minutes Aren't Up #3 (DC, $2.29) is cooler (95% similar).
- MAC Fashion Fanatic (LE, ) is more shimmery, darker (95% similar).
- ColourPop On a Lark (LE, $4.50) is more shimmery, lighter, cooler (95% similar).
- Inglot #362 (P, $6.00) is darker, cooler (95% similar).
- ColourPop Best Coast (LE, $4.50) is lighter (95% similar).
Formula Overview
$17.00/0.05 oz. - $340.00 Per Ounce
The formula is supposed to be a "highly pigmented powder" that goes on "evenly and blends well." MAC eyeshadows run the gamut from total failures to long-time, cult-favorite staples. In general, the permanent line has been more consistent in performance--and higher performance at that--compared to limited edition launches, but it can really depend.
The Matte finish tends to have a firmer press and a bit of thinness compared to other matte formulas on the market, so MAC matte eyeshadows tend to build up better and have better wear-time without fallout as they're not powdery at all. Some of the newer matte finish shades have had a more velvety quality to them that gives them a softer feel but aren't powdery; these have been easier to blend and are often more pigmented in one layer.
The Lustre finish is designed to have sheerer pigmentation, and it often has more sheer to medium coverage with a drier, dustier consistency that can be hard to apply with a dry brush. Lustre finish shades can suffer from fallout during application, too. They are the old school version of an eyeshadow "topper." I would recommend applying with a fingertip or applying with a dampened brush to get smoother, more even coverage and minimize fallout.
The Satin finish is few and far in-between, but it is softer and more yielding than the Matte finish but performs similarly. They tend to have very low sheen but are quite blendable with medium to opaque coverage. It can be easy to mix the finish up with the Velvet finish, which has more of a sparkle-over-matte effect but are more powdery than the true Matte finish.
The Frost finish is more firmly-pressed into the pan but doesn't have fallout, is often pigmented, and blends out well enough. They can sometimes be a little drier to the touch depending on how much shimmer is in the shade. The Veluxe Pearl finish is one of the creamier takes within the range, and newer shades released in the finish tend to have more moderate, silicone-like slip. I've found that Veluxe Pearl finish shades tend to have more semi-opaque pigmentation and are more consistent in performance than some of the other finishes.
One thing I've found with MAC eyeshadows is that they tend to last longer without primer than the average brand (eight hours). While some eyeshadow shades don't swatch well, they often apply better in practice--as in on the eyes!--than just swatched on the skin. They can be quite hit or miss, and they have inconsistencies between releases (see Carbon and its sordid review history!).
Browse all of our MAC Eyeshadow swatches.
Look Using this Product
Bijou
LELimited Edition. $17.00.
Fuchsia Fury
Fuchsia Fury is a dark, pinky-red with cool undertones and a mostly matte finish. There was very subtle pearl in the pan, but it was nearly imperceptible to my eye on the skin. It had good color coverage that went on fairly evenly and smoothly, though it could have been a bit easier to diffuse and blend. This shade wore well for eight hours.
FURTHER READING: Formula Overview for details on general performance and characteristics (like scent).
Top Dupes
- Natasha Denona Fuchsia (136CP) (LE, ) is lighter (95% similar).
- Coloured Raine Daydream (PiP, ) is cooler (95% similar).
- MAC Bird's Eye View (LE, $17.00) is lighter (95% similar).
- Sephora + Pantone Universe Fruit Dove (LE, ) is warmer (95% similar).
- Anastasia C5 (Norvina Vol. 4) (LE, ) is more shimmery, cooler (90% similar).
- MAC Rabblerouser (LE, $23.00) is more muted, warmer (90% similar).
- ColourPop Seas the Day (P, $4.50) is lighter, cooler (90% similar).
- ColourPop Take a Sip (PiP, $4.50) is more shimmery, lighter, cooler (90% similar).
- Fenty Beauty Lil Miss (PiP, ) is lighter, cooler (90% similar).
- ColourPop For Shore (P, $4.50) is lighter (90% similar).
Formula Overview
$17.00/0.05 oz. - $340.00 Per Ounce
The formula is supposed to be a "highly pigmented powder" that goes on "evenly and blends well." MAC eyeshadows run the gamut from total failures to long-time, cult-favorite staples. In general, the permanent line has been more consistent in performance--and higher performance at that--compared to limited edition launches, but it can really depend.
The Matte finish tends to have a firmer press and a bit of thinness compared to other matte formulas on the market, so MAC matte eyeshadows tend to build up better and have better wear-time without fallout as they're not powdery at all. Some of the newer matte finish shades have had a more velvety quality to them that gives them a softer feel but aren't powdery; these have been easier to blend and are often more pigmented in one layer.
The Lustre finish is designed to have sheerer pigmentation, and it often has more sheer to medium coverage with a drier, dustier consistency that can be hard to apply with a dry brush. Lustre finish shades can suffer from fallout during application, too. They are the old school version of an eyeshadow "topper." I would recommend applying with a fingertip or applying with a dampened brush to get smoother, more even coverage and minimize fallout.
The Satin finish is few and far in-between, but it is softer and more yielding than the Matte finish but performs similarly. They tend to have very low sheen but are quite blendable with medium to opaque coverage. It can be easy to mix the finish up with the Velvet finish, which has more of a sparkle-over-matte effect but are more powdery than the true Matte finish.
The Frost finish is more firmly-pressed into the pan but doesn't have fallout, is often pigmented, and blends out well enough. They can sometimes be a little drier to the touch depending on how much shimmer is in the shade. The Veluxe Pearl finish is one of the creamier takes within the range, and newer shades released in the finish tend to have more moderate, silicone-like slip. I've found that Veluxe Pearl finish shades tend to have more semi-opaque pigmentation and are more consistent in performance than some of the other finishes.
One thing I've found with MAC eyeshadows is that they tend to last longer without primer than the average brand (eight hours). While some eyeshadow shades don't swatch well, they often apply better in practice--as in on the eyes!--than just swatched on the skin. They can be quite hit or miss, and they have inconsistencies between releases (see Carbon and its sordid review history!).
Browse all of our MAC Eyeshadow swatches.
Fuchsia Fury
LELimited Edition. $17.00.
Frock Talk
Frock Talk is a medium-dark plum with warm, brown undertones and a pearly finish. It had good pigmentation that applied evenly and smoothly on the skin. The consistency was smooth, firm but not stiff, and blended well on the lid. It wore for just over eight hours on me.
FURTHER READING: Formula Overview for details on general performance and characteristics (like scent).
Top Dupes
- Auric Disrupt (Cream) (PiP, ) is less shimmery, lighter (95% similar).
- NARS China Seas #2 (DC, $25.00) is less shimmery (95% similar).
- MAC A Medley of Mauves #3 (PiP, $21.00) is darker (95% similar).
- Lancome Colour du Jour (P, $19.00) is less shimmery, darker (95% similar).
- ColourPop Babykins (LE, $6.00) is less shimmery, cooler (95% similar).
- Estee Lauder Bordeaux (LE, ) is darker (95% similar).
- Laura Mercier Plumifique (LE, ) is darker (95% similar).
- Natasha Denona Maroon (22M) (PiP, $29.00) is darker (95% similar).
- Anastasia Rosette (P, $12.00) is more shimmery, darker, brighter (90% similar).
- Gucci Beauty Autumn Fire #3 (DC, ) is warmer (90% similar).
Formula Overview
$17.00/0.05 oz. - $340.00 Per Ounce
The formula is supposed to be a "highly pigmented powder" that goes on "evenly and blends well." MAC eyeshadows run the gamut from total failures to long-time, cult-favorite staples. In general, the permanent line has been more consistent in performance--and higher performance at that--compared to limited edition launches, but it can really depend.
The Matte finish tends to have a firmer press and a bit of thinness compared to other matte formulas on the market, so MAC matte eyeshadows tend to build up better and have better wear-time without fallout as they're not powdery at all. Some of the newer matte finish shades have had a more velvety quality to them that gives them a softer feel but aren't powdery; these have been easier to blend and are often more pigmented in one layer.
The Lustre finish is designed to have sheerer pigmentation, and it often has more sheer to medium coverage with a drier, dustier consistency that can be hard to apply with a dry brush. Lustre finish shades can suffer from fallout during application, too. They are the old school version of an eyeshadow "topper." I would recommend applying with a fingertip or applying with a dampened brush to get smoother, more even coverage and minimize fallout.
The Satin finish is few and far in-between, but it is softer and more yielding than the Matte finish but performs similarly. They tend to have very low sheen but are quite blendable with medium to opaque coverage. It can be easy to mix the finish up with the Velvet finish, which has more of a sparkle-over-matte effect but are more powdery than the true Matte finish.
The Frost finish is more firmly-pressed into the pan but doesn't have fallout, is often pigmented, and blends out well enough. They can sometimes be a little drier to the touch depending on how much shimmer is in the shade. The Veluxe Pearl finish is one of the creamier takes within the range, and newer shades released in the finish tend to have more moderate, silicone-like slip. I've found that Veluxe Pearl finish shades tend to have more semi-opaque pigmentation and are more consistent in performance than some of the other finishes.
One thing I've found with MAC eyeshadows is that they tend to last longer without primer than the average brand (eight hours). While some eyeshadow shades don't swatch well, they often apply better in practice--as in on the eyes!--than just swatched on the skin. They can be quite hit or miss, and they have inconsistencies between releases (see Carbon and its sordid review history!).
Browse all of our MAC Eyeshadow swatches.
Frock Talk
LELimited Edition. $17.00.
Shadowy Lady
Shadowy Lady is a muted, blackened purple with a matte finish. It had semi-opaque, buildable color coverage with a soft, dusty texture that was surprisingly difficult to blend given the powdery kickup it had in the pan. This shade wore for eight hours before fading.
FURTHER READING: Formula Overview for details on general performance and characteristics (like scent).
Top Dupes
- Makeup Geek Taboo (DC, $6.00) is less pigmented (95% similar).
- theBalm #27 (P, $6.50) is lighter (95% similar).
- About Face Infinity (P, $16.00) is lighter (95% similar).
- ColourPop Jet (LE, $6.00) is cooler (95% similar).
- Tarte Bombshell (LE, ) is warmer (95% similar).
- Dior Tutu #5 (PiP, ) is warmer (95% similar).
- Tom Ford Beauty Orchid Haze #4 (PiP, ) is warmer (95% similar).
- MAC Black Plum (LE, $17.00) is darker (95% similar).
- Bobbi Brown Rich Chocolate (LE, $22.00) is darker (95% similar).
- Too Faced Charming (LE, $16.00) is lighter, warmer (90% similar).
Formula Overview
$17.00/0.05 oz. - $340.00 Per Ounce
The formula is supposed to be a "highly pigmented powder" that goes on "evenly and blends well." MAC eyeshadows run the gamut from total failures to long-time, cult-favorite staples. In general, the permanent line has been more consistent in performance--and higher performance at that--compared to limited edition launches, but it can really depend.
The Matte finish tends to have a firmer press and a bit of thinness compared to other matte formulas on the market, so MAC matte eyeshadows tend to build up better and have better wear-time without fallout as they're not powdery at all. Some of the newer matte finish shades have had a more velvety quality to them that gives them a softer feel but aren't powdery; these have been easier to blend and are often more pigmented in one layer.
The Lustre finish is designed to have sheerer pigmentation, and it often has more sheer to medium coverage with a drier, dustier consistency that can be hard to apply with a dry brush. Lustre finish shades can suffer from fallout during application, too. They are the old school version of an eyeshadow "topper." I would recommend applying with a fingertip or applying with a dampened brush to get smoother, more even coverage and minimize fallout.
The Satin finish is few and far in-between, but it is softer and more yielding than the Matte finish but performs similarly. They tend to have very low sheen but are quite blendable with medium to opaque coverage. It can be easy to mix the finish up with the Velvet finish, which has more of a sparkle-over-matte effect but are more powdery than the true Matte finish.
The Frost finish is more firmly-pressed into the pan but doesn't have fallout, is often pigmented, and blends out well enough. They can sometimes be a little drier to the touch depending on how much shimmer is in the shade. The Veluxe Pearl finish is one of the creamier takes within the range, and newer shades released in the finish tend to have more moderate, silicone-like slip. I've found that Veluxe Pearl finish shades tend to have more semi-opaque pigmentation and are more consistent in performance than some of the other finishes.
One thing I've found with MAC eyeshadows is that they tend to last longer without primer than the average brand (eight hours). While some eyeshadow shades don't swatch well, they often apply better in practice--as in on the eyes!--than just swatched on the skin. They can be quite hit or miss, and they have inconsistencies between releases (see Carbon and its sordid review history!).
Browse all of our MAC Eyeshadow swatches.
Ingredients
Talc , Zinc Stearate , Octyldodecyl Stearoyl Stearate , Isostearyl Neopentanoate , Tocopheryl Acetate , Caprylyl Glycol , Hexylene Glycol , Phenoxyethanol , [+/- Silica , Mica , Titanium Dioxide (Ci 77891) , Iron Oxides (Ci 77491, Ci 77492, Ci 77499) , Bismuth Oxychloride (Ci 77163) , Blue 1 Lake (Ci 42090) , Carmine (Ci 75470) , Chromium Hydroxide Green (Ci 77289) , Chromium Oxide Greens (Ci 77288) , Ferric Ferrocyanide (Ci 77510) , Manganese Violet (Ci 77742) , Red 40 Lake (Ci 16035) , Ultramarines (Ci 77007) , Yellow 5 Lake (Ci 19140)]
Disclaimer: Ingredient lists are as available by the brand (or retailer) at the time of publishing. Please always check product packaging, if it exists, for the ingredient list applicable to the product you're purchasing, or the brand or retailer's website for the most up-to-date ingredient list.
Look Using this Product
Shadowy Lady
LELimited Edition. $17.00.
Lover In Me
Lover In Me is a deep, muted purple with cool undertones and a matte finish. It had semi-opaque color payoff with a lightly dusty texture that wasn’t forgiving on the lid, as it did not blend out that easily and took a lot of effort to make it look half-decent. The color wore well for eight hours on me.
FURTHER READING: Formula Overview for details on general performance and characteristics (like scent).
Top Dupes
- About Face Infinity (P, $16.00) is warmer (95% similar).
- Glaminatrix Burlesque (P, $7.30) is more shimmery, lighter (95% similar).
- Give Me Glow Punk (PiP, $7.00) is lighter, cooler (95% similar).
- MAC Video Emotions (LE, $17.00) is darker, warmer (90% similar).
- Too Faced Spice of Life (Pumpkin Spice) (LE, $16.00) is lighter (90% similar).
- NARS Nunavut (LE, $28.00) is brighter, glossier (90% similar).
- Marc Jacobs Beauty About Last Night No. 04 (LE, ) is lighter (90% similar).
- KVD Beauty Ribbon (LE, ) is warmer (90% similar).
- Give Me Glow Blackened Plum (P, $7.00) is lighter, brighter (90% similar).
- MAC Bon Nuit (LE, $17.00) is cooler (90% similar).
Formula Overview
$17.00/0.05 oz. - $340.00 Per Ounce
The formula is supposed to be a "highly pigmented powder" that goes on "evenly and blends well." MAC eyeshadows run the gamut from total failures to long-time, cult-favorite staples. In general, the permanent line has been more consistent in performance--and higher performance at that--compared to limited edition launches, but it can really depend.
The Matte finish tends to have a firmer press and a bit of thinness compared to other matte formulas on the market, so MAC matte eyeshadows tend to build up better and have better wear-time without fallout as they're not powdery at all. Some of the newer matte finish shades have had a more velvety quality to them that gives them a softer feel but aren't powdery; these have been easier to blend and are often more pigmented in one layer.
The Lustre finish is designed to have sheerer pigmentation, and it often has more sheer to medium coverage with a drier, dustier consistency that can be hard to apply with a dry brush. Lustre finish shades can suffer from fallout during application, too. They are the old school version of an eyeshadow "topper." I would recommend applying with a fingertip or applying with a dampened brush to get smoother, more even coverage and minimize fallout.
The Satin finish is few and far in-between, but it is softer and more yielding than the Matte finish but performs similarly. They tend to have very low sheen but are quite blendable with medium to opaque coverage. It can be easy to mix the finish up with the Velvet finish, which has more of a sparkle-over-matte effect but are more powdery than the true Matte finish.
The Frost finish is more firmly-pressed into the pan but doesn't have fallout, is often pigmented, and blends out well enough. They can sometimes be a little drier to the touch depending on how much shimmer is in the shade. The Veluxe Pearl finish is one of the creamier takes within the range, and newer shades released in the finish tend to have more moderate, silicone-like slip. I've found that Veluxe Pearl finish shades tend to have more semi-opaque pigmentation and are more consistent in performance than some of the other finishes.
One thing I've found with MAC eyeshadows is that they tend to last longer without primer than the average brand (eight hours). While some eyeshadow shades don't swatch well, they often apply better in practice--as in on the eyes!--than just swatched on the skin. They can be quite hit or miss, and they have inconsistencies between releases (see Carbon and its sordid review history!).
Browse all of our MAC Eyeshadow swatches.
This was one I was leaning toward; thank you for getting this review posted before the release! And yet – MADDENING – Why oh why does MAC have such trouble with matte purples?! Every other matte purple I bought from them I had to give away due to poor performance. I think the other shades are strong enough that I still want the palette. Perhaps I can plan on using the purples as liners applied with a damp brush.
No problem, Michele! The look ended up being more “cut crease” than I wanted, lol, because the purple was being fussier than I expected.
🙂 It looks amazing on you. Wish I could do a good cut crease but it’s insanely difficult with hooded, downturned eyes.
Oh dear, too bad about the matte purples, but love your red hot eye look!
Thanks, Katherine!
This is the one I wanted as well, and your look is absolutely beautiful, thanks for the review a definite must for me I love reds♡♡
Thanks a lot, Nicole!
It’s telling the rep MAC has earned that this review features the phrase “actually not bad.”
I just can’t get excited over their shadows anymore because od it.
I actually meant with respect to the types of colors (matte reds, matte pinks, matte purples), not with respect to MAC as a brand.
I really like this palette. Great to see a Mac palette that’s actually decennt.
Your eye look is beautiful, you always come up with such unique shade combinations!
Thank you, Agata!
I haven’t been overly impressed with this “miniature” palettes, but just seeing that eye look you did makes this one seem tempting. I have to check to see how many shades I can duplicate from what I have now.
How I wish Frock Talk was available as a single. I already have Vanilla and I have Indian Ink which is, I think, close enough to the purple in this palette. The other shades are such “no way” shades for me.
Frock Talk is my pick and my favourite here!!! But I can’t splurge on the whole palette for like 3 shades ah!
No one can do these colors like you! Beautiful!!
You’re too kind, Deborah!
This is one very ret-hot eye look you got using this little palette!
I do have a Pro Pan single of Shadowy Lady, and have found it to be only really useful as a cut-crease or liner. It’s a slightly fussy one, but I don’t have anything else quite as deep of a purple, so I put up with it the best I can.
That’s exactly how it was for me!!
I have never been the kind to wear bright eyeshadows but something about this one is so captivating to me! I will wait for the release on Brazil and get it!
It’s a pity the purple ones aren’t performing well. It’s a pretty palette though and fun, and it’s on a mental maybe list. I really like For Your Pleasure a lot, I wish it was a single.
For those who love their bright pinks and purples, this would be a palette to love.
I’m in love with your eye look. <3 This palette actually much better than I was expecting. Of course the purples have to be problematic. lol
I love your eye look, it puts me in mind of a stunning sunset! It’d be difficult for me to pull this look off without my eyes looking sore as I have fair skin and green eyes!
I like this color scheme a lot! Good price too.
I like the overall look and if I was still clubbing, I’d certainly go for it. It’s a little too crazy for my current life.
That middle row just kills this palette for me. Not only are they a bit too bright for me, they also remind me a lot of the Flamingo Park x9 that came out a few months ago, which I bought.