MAC Desert Lightning Eyeshadow Palette Review & Swatches
Desert Lightning
MAC Desert Lightning Eyeshadow x 12 Palette ($48.00 for 0.6 oz.) contains a mix of cooler neutral shades with some being more neutral to neutral-cool, but there were some warmer shades still present throughout. The warmth tended to lean on the side of rose, plum, or yellow as opposed to orange or red. The quality was decent across the board with only one miss (Deception), and those who have indulged in a fair amount of past palettes may want to check that they don’t have repeats as over half the palette were shades that had been released before (some in limited edition palettes, two are from the permanent range).
Ingredients
Desert Lightning
LELimited Edition. $50.00.
Desert Lightning
Desert Lightning is a pale beige with neutral undertones and a matte finish. It had semi-opaque pigmentation with a soft, lightly powdery consistency, but it was finely-milled and blendable without losing too much of its coverage. This shade lasted well for seven and a half hours on me before fading noticeably.
FURTHER READING: Formula Overview for details on general performance and characteristics (like scent).
Top Dupes
- Wet 'n' Wild Nude Awakening #5 (PiP, ) is warmer (95% similar).
- Dominique Cosmetics Free Spirit (LE, ) is warmer (90% similar).
- L'Oreal Endless Pearl (P, $7.99) is darker, warmer (90% similar).
- Tarte Eggnog (LE, ) is more shimmery, darker (90% similar).
- MAC Winterlude (LE, $17.00) is more shimmery, warmer (90% similar).
- Too Faced Divinity (PiP, $16.00) is darker (90% similar).
- Tarte Sugar Cookie (LE, ) is more shimmery (90% similar).
- LORAC Black Tie Attire #4 (LE, $19.00) is warmer (90% similar).
- LORAC Black #1 (LE, $19.00) is warmer (90% similar).
- Kevyn Aucoin Beige (LE, ) is more shimmery, 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.
Desert Lightning
LELimited Edition. $17.00.
Fresh Innocence
Fresh Innocence is a pale white with subtle, warm undertones and pink sparkles. The texture was soft but powdery, which made it prone to clumping together and had a fair amount of fallout when I worked with it on my skin. The pigmentation was semi-opaque and had to be built up to full coverage with a second layer. It wore well for seven and a half hours on me before it started to fade visibly.
FURTHER READING: Formula Overview for details on general performance and characteristics (like scent).
Top Dupes
- Too Faced Whipped Cream (LE, $16.00) is more shimmery (95% similar).
- Chanel Carte Blanche (317) (LE, $36.00) is warmer (90% similar).
- Tarte It's Snow Time (LE, ) is warmer (90% similar).
- MAC Runway Worthy (LE, $17.00) is less shimmery (90% similar).
- MAC Smoked Cocoa #1 (LE, $17.00) is less shimmery (90% similar).
- MAC Dazzlelight (P, $17.00) is less shimmery (90% similar).
- MAC Call of the Canyon (LE, $17.00) is more shimmery (90% similar).
- Maybelline Pure Nude (80) (LE, $6.99) is darker (90% similar).
- Dior Jardin #2 (PiP, ) is less shimmery (90% similar).
- Stila Snowflake (LE, $18.00) is darker (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.
Fresh Innocence
LELimited Edition. $17.00.
Retrospeck
Retrospeck is a light-medium gold with warm, yellow undertones and a sparkling finish. The texture was soft, smooth, and blendable without being too powdery or dry, and it was much, much more pigmented than past iterations of Retrospeck have been. I felt like it was smoother with less obvious sparkle. It stayed on well for eight hours before fading noticeably.
FURTHER READING: Formula Overview for details on general performance and characteristics (like scent).
Top Dupes
- Chanel Convoitise (90) (LE, $32.00) is less shimmery (95% similar).
- ColourPop Bitter Better (PiP, $4.50) is lighter, warmer (95% similar).
- Tom Ford Beauty Iris Bronze #2 (LE, ) is more shimmery (95% similar).
- Dior Golden Flower #3 (LE, ) is more shimmery (95% similar).
- Glaminatrix New Nude (PiP, $8.04) is more shimmery (95% similar).
- Too Faced Moon on Their Wings (LE, $16.00) is lighter (95% similar).
- Kevyn Aucoin Beam (LE, ) is lighter (95% similar).
- Dior Rivage #4 (LE, ) is lighter (95% similar).
- Dose of Colors Suz (LE, ) is more shimmery, lighter (90% similar).
- L'Oreal Eternal Sunshine (P, $7.99) is darker, 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
Retrospeck
PPermanent. $17.00.
Fool's Gold
Fool’s Gold is a medium gold with strong, warm undertones and a frosted finish. It had excellent pigmentation with a soft, lightly creamy consistency that wasn’t too firmly nor too softly pressed in the pan. This shade lasted nicely for eight hours on me before it showed signs of fading.
FURTHER READING: Formula Overview for details on general performance and characteristics (like scent).
Top Dupes
- Cle de Peau Golden Lace #4 (LE, ) is lighter (95% similar).
- Milani Drenched in Gold (DC, $6.99) is warmer (95% similar).
- Tarte Baby It's Gold Outside (LE, ) is lighter (95% similar).
- MAC Cushy Life (LE, $22.00) is lighter (90% similar).
- Urban Decay Interstellar (DC, $20.00) is more shimmery, brighter (90% similar).
- Anastasia Amber (P, $12.00) is less shimmery, darker (90% similar).
- Anastasia Yacht (LE, $12.00) is less shimmery, darker, warmer (90% similar).
- Anastasia Chic (LE, $12.00) is lighter (90% similar).
- MAC Until Dawn #2 (LE, $21.00) is less shimmery, lighter (90% similar).
- Tom Ford Beauty Naked Bronze (Eye Color) (LE, ) is more shimmery, cooler (85% 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.
Fool's Gold
LELimited Edition. $17.00.
Marzipan
Marzipan is a pale mauve with warm undertones and a matte finish. The color coverage was opaque in a single layer, and the color had decent adhesion without a primer, but I’d recommend using a primer with this shade to keep it from sheering out a bit. The consistency was soft, velvety, and blendable with a smidgen of powderiness in the pan. It wore well for seven and a half hours on me before I noticed any fading.
FURTHER READING: Formula Overview for details on general performance and characteristics (like scent).
Top Dupes
- NYX Undress Me (P, $4.50) is darker (95% similar).
- LORAC Overcast (LE, $19.00) is darker (90% similar).
- Too Faced Rendezvous (LE, $16.00) is darker (85% similar).
- Tarte Skipper (LE, ) is darker (90% similar).
- Chanel Quiet Revolution #1 (PiP, ) is darker (90% similar).
- ColourPop Floral Affair (PiP, $4.50) is more shimmery, darker, warmer (90% similar).
- Pretty Vulgar Unruffled (PiP, ) is warmer (85% similar).
- Lancome London Is Callin' (LE, $19.00) is darker (80% similar).
- Ciate Toon Kisses (LE, ) is lighter, warmer (85% similar).
- ColourPop Clubhouse (LE, $4.50) is darker (85% 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.
Marzipan
LELimited Edition. $17.00.
So Jaded
So Jaded is a pale, aqua-green with subtle, warm undertones and a frosted finish. The eyeshadow had good pigmentation–not quite opaque–that applied well to bare skin with a smooth, even lay down of color. The consistency was soft, a little drier and dustier in the pan, but it blended out well and wasn’t prone to sheering out. It stayed on nicely for eight hours before showing signs of fading.
FURTHER READING: Formula Overview for details on general performance and characteristics (like scent).
Top Dupes
- Bad Habit Ecstatic (PiP, ) is more shimmery, darker (90% similar).
- MAC Lime Ice (LE, $21.00) is more shimmery, lighter, cooler (90% similar).
- Natasha Denona Mint Frost (LE, $29.00) is more shimmery, darker (90% similar).
- Bobbi Brown Seafoam (LE, ) is more shimmery, darker, warmer (90% similar).
- Melt Cosmetics Skylight (PiP, ) is more shimmery, darker, warmer (90% similar).
- Lethal Cosmetics Celestial (P, $6.00) is more shimmery, lighter (90% similar).
- Smashbox Sea (LE, ) is more shimmery, lighter, warmer (90% similar).
- Clionadh Arctic Fox (P, $6.00) is more shimmery, lighter, cooler (85% similar).
- Sydney Grace Mint Green (P, $6.00) is more shimmery, darker (85% similar).
- Dior Blue Lagoon (374) Eyeshadow #5 (LE, ) is more shimmery, lighter, warmer (85% 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.
So Jaded
LELimited Edition. $17.00.
Duabandita
Duabandita is a medium, plummy-brown base with strong, warm undertones and cooler blue-to-teal shifting pearl. It had semi-opaque pigmentation, but it was much less pigmented than the last time it was released in a collection. The consistency was drier, thinner, and firmer in the pan, which made it harder to apply evenly. It lasted well for seven and a half hours on me before I noticed fading.
FURTHER READING: Formula Overview for details on general performance and characteristics (like scent).
Top Dupes
- ColourPop Lucid (LE, $4.50) is more shimmery, lighter (90% similar).
- Makeup Geek Insomnia (P, $9.99) is warmer (95% similar).
- Makeup Geek Insomnia (P, $12.00) is darker (95% similar).
- KVD Beauty Kelly (LE, ) is lighter, cooler (85% similar).
- MAC I've Got a Crush on You (LE, $32.50) is darker (90% similar).
- NARS Frioul (LE, $28.00) is less shimmery, warmer (90% similar).
- BH Cosmetics Foil Eyes #21 (PiP, ) is warmer (90% similar).
- Kaja Magic (P, $16.00) is darker (90% similar).
- Bite Beauty Peacock Pearl (P, $24.00) is less shimmery, darker (90% similar).
- Urban Decay Fortune-Teller (LE, $19.00) is more shimmery, 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.
Look Using this Product
Duabandita
LELimited Edition. $17.00.
Is It the Beat
Is it the Beat is a medium-dark black with cool undertones and a matte finish. It had opaque pigmentation with a slightly firmer consistency, though it wasn’t too difficult to pick up; the challenge was more in blending and diffusing it, as it took more effort to blend out the edges. It wore well for eight hours on me before I noticed any fading.
FURTHER READING: Formula Overview for details on general performance and characteristics (like scent).
Top Dupes
- KVD Beauty Jet (LE, ) is lighter (95% similar).
- Chanel Modern Glamour #3 (PiP, ) is warmer (95% similar).
- NABLA Cosmetics Untitled (PiP, $8.00) is darker (95% similar).
- Tarina Tarantino Lovely #5 (DC, ) is more shimmery (95% similar).
- MAC Lune Noire (LE, $17.00) is warmer (95% similar).
- Smashbox Big Night (PiP, ) is warmer (95% similar).
- bareMinerals Black Leather (LE, $14.00) is more shimmery (95% similar).
- Make Up For Ever M100 Black (P, $17.00) is warmer (95% similar).
- Marc Jacobs Beauty About Last Night No. 12 (LE, ) is warmer (95% similar).
- Tarte Punk (PiP, ) (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
Is It the Beat
LELimited Edition. $17.00.
Brun
Brun is a medium-dark, taupe brown with neutral-to-warm undertones and a matte finish. It’s a long-time permanent staple in the MAC range, and I find it is a chameleon–it can look ashier against cooler tones and just barely warm-toned when paired with warmer shades. It had a soft, blendable consistency that wasn’t too firmly nor too softly pressed in the pan, which yielded opaque pigmentation. It stayed on nicely for eight hours on me before fading visibly.
FURTHER READING: Formula Overview for details on general performance and characteristics (like scent).
Top Dupes
- Viseart Grande Pro (Vol. 1) #11 (LE, ) is lighter (95% similar).
- Melt Cosmetics Rott (PiP, ) is darker (95% similar).
- Sephora Roasted Chestnuts (DC, $10.00) (100% similar).
- Laura Mercier Coffee Ground (PiP, $23.00) is darker, cooler (90% similar).
- Pat McGrath Depth (PiP, $25.00) is darker, brighter, warmer (90% similar).
- NARS Cordura II (PiP, $19.00) is more shimmery, brighter (90% similar).
- Guerlain Les Cendres #3 (LE, ) is cooler (90% similar).
- Milani After Hours (PiP, $5.99) is darker, brighter (90% similar).
- Viseart Petit Pro #4 (LE, ) is lighter (90% similar).
- LORAC Dark Chocolate (LE, $19.00) is darker (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.
Brun
PPermanent. $17.00.
Deception
Deception is a medium, plummy brown base with flecks of gold sparkle. From the look of it, you’d think it was a Lustre finish, but it’s actually a Frost (technically). It is an eyeshadow that’s been released a few times in other palettes, and it is usually pretty terrible; this time isn’t any different. It was dry, sheer, prone to fallout, and not worth using unless over a tacky base or packed on with a wet brush. It lasted for six and a half hours but had fallout over time.
FURTHER READING: Formula Overview for details on general performance and characteristics (like scent).
Top Dupes
- Urban Decay Horizon (DC, $20.00) is more shimmery (90% similar).
- Tarte Steel the Scene (LE, ) is less shimmery (90% similar).
- LORAC Pewter (PiP, $19.00) is less shimmery (95% similar).
- Tarte Ring-a-ling (LE, ) is lighter (90% similar).
- Sephora Moon (LE, ) is less shimmery, lighter, less pigmented (90% similar).
- Zoeva Outline (PiP, ) is lighter (90% similar).
- MAC Damson (LE, $21.00) (100% similar).
- MAC Stroke My Ego (DC, $23.00) is cooler (85% similar).
- Chanel Ebloui (P, $32.00) is darker, warmer (85% similar).
- Too Faced Brown Sugar (LE, $16.00) is less shimmery, darker (85% 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.
Deception
LELimited Edition. $17.00.
Golden Brown
Golden Brown is a soft, golden brown with strong, warm undertones and a pearly sheen. The color payoff was opaque in a single layer, while the eyeshadow had a smooth, blendable consistency that wasn’t too firmly pressed in the pan but wasn’t so soft that it became powdery to work with. It lasted nicely for eight hours on me before I noticed any fading.
FURTHER READING: Formula Overview for details on general performance and characteristics (like scent).
Top Dupes
- Chanel Intense #2 (PiP, ) is less shimmery, darker (95% similar).
- Too Faced Dear Diary (LE, $16.00) is more shimmery, lighter (95% similar).
- Make Up For Ever ME644 Iced Brown (P, $17.00) is more shimmery, darker, cooler (95% similar).
- Kevyn Aucoin Charge (LE, ) is more shimmery, lighter (95% similar).
- Marc Jacobs Beauty Brav-O (P, $29.00) is more shimmery, darker (90% similar).
- LORAC Copper Pearl (LE, $19.00) is more shimmery, darker, cooler (90% similar).
- Makeup by Mario Bronzy Glam #3 (LE, ) is brighter, cooler (90% similar).
- Urban Decay Casterly Rock (LE, $19.00) is darker, cooler (90% similar).
- NARS Telesto (P, $29.00) is more shimmery, darker (90% similar).
- KKW Beauty Glam (LE, ) is more shimmery, darker (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.
Golden Brown
LELimited Edition. $17.00.
Big Attitude
Big Attitude is a light, golden taupe with warm undertones and a metallic sheen. It had good pigmentation with a soft, blendable consistency that was a smidgen powdery in the pan, but it adhered evenly and had minimal fallout. This shade stayed on well for eight hours on me before fading noticeably.
FURTHER READING: Formula Overview for details on general performance and characteristics (like scent).
Top Dupes
- Urban Decay Angel (LE, $19.00) is cooler (95% similar).
- Divergent Abnegation Stone (LE, ) is darker (95% similar).
- Gucci Beauty Tuscan Storm #2 (DC, ) is less shimmery, darker (95% similar).
- Chanel Talpa (14) (P, $30.00) is darker (95% similar).
- bareMinerals Magnetism (P, ) is darker (95% similar).
- Chanel Prelude #3 (P, ) is less shimmery (95% similar).
- theBalm #19 (P, $6.50) is more shimmery (90% similar).
- Tom Ford Beauty Soleil d'Ambre #3 (Eye Color) (LE, ) is cooler (90% similar).
- Becca Spirit Quartz (LE, ) is more shimmery, lighter (90% similar).
- Giorgio Armani Avant-Premiere #3 (PiP, ) 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.
I like how Deception already got an F from MAC themselves!
Okay, it means Frost finish, I’ll see myself out.
Anyway, it’s another neutral-boring palette with same shades again…
These are closer to my favorite types of shades, but the quality just isn’t worth $48 for me. Deception is very disappointing. Money saved.
I really love this! It seems different and very well conceived. I really appreciate the minty green with the earth tones and that purply crease colour.
I like it well enough, but would rather either have it on sale or find as many dupes that I may possibly have. I DO have Retrospeck and Deception in other palettes. The big secret to Deception is that it does need a tacky primer, but also applied using ones fingertips. Doing so makes for one beautiful plummy-taupe with a golden flash!
I wish I could hear the reasoning behind Deception’s texture. They’ve done it so many times, it has to be intentional…
It’s definitely an outlier, that’s for sure! Yet, when I use my finger to apply it, bam! It’s gorg, but I shouldn’t have to do this when their formula is known for being so brush friendly, right? ?
Oh no, you’re selling me on this palette now! I have a few shades from various brands that apply best with my finger, so now Deception is looking pretty good. I really don’t need to spend $50 on another palette, but…
Yes, I’ve found Deception works best with a fingertip, too. I usually just use it on lid, or center of the lid, and don’t try to get too fancy with it.
So Jaded is So Interesting and I’m delighted to see a new and very much improved Retrospeck. It’s a shame about Deception – it looks so nice in the pan. I already have Brun and so I was going to pass on this as “more of the same” but now, I might have no choice but to go out and buy it!
I keep being tempted by this, but I think some of the colors are definitely too frosty/cool. I can’t decide if So Jaded would look good on me or not, but I really want to do a look around this and Dubandita. Maybe I should try to just dupe these two, since I know I have dupes of some of the other colors? I couldn’t even decide if I liked the colors after swatching in the store, so I’m thinking like Nancy that if I get it at all, it’ll be on sale or at CCO.
I liked the colour story, but had a feeling the review would yield a mediocre palette and plenty of dupes in my stash. Still, I have heart eyes for marzipan and so jaded.. I’d be all over it if they were a duo.
Like others who have already commented, I like the combination of colours. It’s difficult to find a palette of muted colours that isn’t just neutrals, so the blue-green shades really add something to the mix. But I think I have enough dupes in my collection already and they generally look like they’re better quality.
I got this today, as I didn’t have most of the shades, and I really liked the color story. I think it’ll work really well for me, as Is it the Beat and Brun aren’t super-dark, and blend really well. Very fair-skin friendly.
Deception always seems to earn it’s name: It looks beautiful and like it should be no problem, but it’s a finicky shade for whatever reason. A brown frost really shouldn’t be so difficult. I don’t why they keep putting it in palettes. It’s like the Carbon of browns.
“The Carbon of browns” … Lol!!! 😀
It could have been a really delightful palette…if only someone at MAC had taken a good look at it. First of all, Retrospek and Fool’s Gold are complete dupes for each other; the inclusion of yet another black shade and the failure of Deception, which is so, so bad. And this was a lovely colour too.
This theme and the colors look nice but would not compliment my skin tone unfortunately so it’s an easy pass for me 🙂
I found the color story quite intriguing, but the swatches seem less than true to pan. Not very WYSIWIG. Kind of a cognitive dissonance, really. (If you put the pans of shades in a layout….like the new grid sneak peek format…, they probably would not look very dupe-y ay all.) Expected a cooler feel, and never an overall feeling of gold and brown. But there are a couple of dupes to add to my next SG order. There’s always a positive takeaway here, even when something somehow disappoints.
I really do like this palette. My, very old Retrospeck doesn’t look at all like this one, unless my memory is going, I have also hit pan on it. I have Brun, and I use it quite a lot.
I could (almost) buy this just to get So Jaded, such a lovely colour! I also really like Marzipan and OK, I like most of these colours a lot. I really think this will be one that I do buy.