MAC Semi-Sweet Times Nine Eyeshadow Palette Review, Photos, Swatches
Semi-Sweet Times Nine
MAC Semi-Sweet Times Nine Eyeshadow Palette ($32.00 for 0.18 oz.) includes nine, dime-sized eyeshadows. It’s a darker, more muted take on neutrals. This particular palette has more repeats than others–Bamboo and Carbon are permanent, Drawing a Blanc, Outre, Persuade, and Dance in the Dark are all repromotes–so you might want to check your stash for repeats! In general, I wish some of the shades were more blendable or more pigmented, but if you normally use primer, it significantly improved blendability and opacity, as MAC’s matte formula is very buildable.
Look Using this Product
Semi-Sweet Times Nine
LELimited Edition. $32.00.
Drawing a Blanc
Drawing a Blanc is a light beige with warm undertones and a matte finish. I did find the version in this palette to be yellower than the previous version I have. The consistency was soft, smooth, and blendable, while it had good pigmentation that lasted for seven and a half hours on me.
FURTHER READING: Formula Overview for details on general performance and characteristics (like scent).
Top Dupes
- ColourPop Fire Fly (DC, $4.50) is lighter (95% similar).
- Make Up For Ever M532 Sugar Coated Candy (DC, $21.00) is lighter (95% similar).
- ColourPop Hear Me Out (P, $4.50) is brighter (95% similar).
- Sephora Cashmere (LE, ) is lighter (95% similar).
- Natasha Denona Malia (LE, ) is brighter (95% similar).
- Smashbox Assistant (PiP, ) is lighter (95% similar).
- Sephora Linen (LE, ) is warmer (95% similar).
- Hourglass Graphite #1 (PiP, ) is lighter (95% similar).
- Hourglass Infinity #1 (PiP, ) is warmer (95% similar).
- Dior Undress #1 (PiP, ) is more shimmery (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.
Drawing a Blanc
LELimited Edition. $17.00.
Bamboo
Bamboo is a muted, medium orange-brown with warm undertones and a matte finish. It was a bit brighter and lighter (seemingly less brown) compared to my standalone version of this. The texture was thinner, a little drier, and did not yield as great coverage either. This shade started fading after seven hours of wear.
FURTHER READING: Formula Overview for details on general performance and characteristics (like scent).
Top Dupes
- MAC Petit Lion (LE, $17.00) is lighter (95% similar).
- ColourPop Rocker (PiP, $4.50) is darker (95% similar).
- Natasha Denona Atik (117CM) (2020) (PiP, ) is darker (95% similar).
- ColourPop Wake Up Call (P, $4.50) is darker (95% similar).
- Too Faced Gretchen (LE, $16.00) is darker, cooler (95% similar).
- MAC Layin' Low (P, $23.00) is darker (95% similar).
- Too Faced So Boujee (LE, $16.00) is lighter, cooler (95% similar).
- Inglot J313 Honey (LE, $10.00) is darker (95% similar).
- Too Faced Au Natural (PiP, $16.00) is lighter (90% similar).
- NABLA Cosmetics Narrative (PiP, $8.00) 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.
Bamboo
DCDiscontinued. $17.00.
Outre
Outre is a muted, medium-dark brown with strong, yellow undertones and a matte finish. It had good pigmentation with a soft, blendable texture that wasn’t too firm or too soft in the pan. The color wore for just over eight hours on me.
FURTHER READING: Formula Overview for details on general performance and characteristics (like scent).
Top Dupes
- ColourPop Depp (LE, $4.50) is darker, brighter (95% similar).
- Make Up For Ever M660 Speculous (DC, $21.00) is warmer (95% similar).
- ColourPop Flutes (LE, $6.00) is lighter (95% similar).
- LORAC Burlap (LE, $19.00) is lighter (95% similar).
- NARS Your Move (DC, $25.00) is lighter (95% similar).
- Melt Cosmetics Lorelei (LE, ) is lighter (95% similar).
- LORAC Sand Dune (PiP, ) is lighter (95% similar).
- MAC Uninterrupted (DC, $21.00) is cooler (95% similar).
- Makeup Geek Desert Sands (DC, $6.00) is lighter (95% similar).
- Kaja Hot Cocoa (LE, ) 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.
Look Using this Product
Outre
PiPPermanent in Palette. $17.00.
Pink Sienna
Pink Sienna is a muted, medium mauve with neutral-to-warm undertones and a matte finish. The consistency was more powdery and on the thinner side, so it was harder to apply this shade to bare skin. It worked a lot better over primer, though. It had semi-opaque, buildable coverage that lasted for seven hours.
FURTHER READING: Formula Overview for details on general performance and characteristics (like scent).
Top Dupes
- Too Faced Chocolate Syrup (LE, $16.00) is cooler (95% similar).
- MAC Choc-ful (LE, $17.00) is cooler (95% similar).
- Viseart Caramel (PiP, ) is lighter (95% similar).
- Marc Jacobs Beauty Dog and Pony (LE, ) is darker (95% similar).
- Make Up For Ever M546 Dark Purple Taupe (P, $17.00) is darker (95% similar).
- LORAC Pink Mauve (PiP, $19.00) is warmer (95% similar).
- Guerlain Bois des Indes #3 (DC, ) is lighter, cooler (90% similar).
- Bobbi Brown Amnesia Rose (LE, $22.00) is cooler (90% similar).
- ColourPop Stardom (LE, $4.50) is darker (90% similar).
- LORAC Unconditional (PiP, $19.00) 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
Pink Sienna
LELimited Edition. $17.00.
Mocha Minded
Mocha Minded is a medium-dark brown with warm, yellowish undertones and a matte finish. It had good color coverage, though it took two layers for opaque coverage. The eyeshadow was firm in the pan, but it was still easily blended on the lid, so I did not really notice the firmness in practice. This shade wore well for seven and a half hours.
FURTHER READING: Formula Overview for details on general performance and characteristics (like scent).
Top Dupes
- Becca Cognac (LE, ) is more muted (95% similar).
- Bobbi Brown Stone (LE, $22.00) is lighter (95% similar).
- Too Faced Toffee Crunch (LE, $16.00) is warmer (95% similar).
- Chanel Candeur et Experience #1 (PiP, ) is lighter (95% similar).
- ColourPop My Type (PiP, $4.50) is lighter (95% similar).
- Viseart Taupe (PiP, ) is more shimmery (95% similar).
- Sydney Grace Tippy Taupe (P, $5.25) is cooler (95% similar).
- Natasha Denona Coco (PiP, ) is warmer (95% similar).
- Viseart Warm Mattes #9 (PiP, ) is warmer (95% similar).
- Sephora Hot Chocolate (LE, ) is cooler (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
Mocha Minded
LELimited Edition. $17.00.
Everyone's Darling
Everyone’s Darling is a muted, reddish plum with warm undertones and a matte finish. The pigmentation was fantastic, while the consistency was a little dry to the touch, but it blended out without too much trouble. The color started to fade noticeably after eight hours of wear.
FURTHER READING: Formula Overview for details on general performance and characteristics (like scent).
Top Dupes
- Makeup Geek Cherry Cola (DC, $6.00) is cooler (95% similar).
- ColourPop Shade (LE, $4.50) is more shimmery (95% similar).
- Zoeva Lonely City (PiP, ) is lighter (95% similar).
- Clarins Flame #3 (PiP, ) is lighter, warmer (95% similar).
- Tarte Koalified (LE, ) is warmer (95% similar).
- NARS Grand Palais #2 (DC, $25.00) is darker (95% similar).
- Marc Jacobs Beauty On Top (LE, ) is lighter (95% similar).
- Too Faced Bordeaux (PiP, $16.00) is darker, warmer (95% similar).
- ColourPop Strike It (LE, $4.50) is cooler (95% similar).
- Anastasia Passion (LE, $12.00) 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.
Everyone's Darling
PiPPermanent in Palette. $17.00.
Persuade
Persuade is a medium-dark, gray-leaning taupe with a matte finish. It had good color payoff with a firmer, drier texture that took some manipulating to blend out decently. This shade wore for just over seven and a half hours on me.
FURTHER READING: Formula Overview for details on general performance and characteristics (like scent).
Top Dupes
- KVD Beauty Saleos (PiP, ) is more shimmery, darker (95% similar).
- LORAC Navy #3 (LE, $19.00) is lighter (95% similar).
- MAC Influential (LE, $17.00) is darker (95% similar).
- ColourPop Downtown (LE, $6.00) is brighter (95% similar).
- ColourPop Cult Clastic (PiP, $4.50) is lighter (95% similar).
- MAC Lofty (LE, $17.00) is more shimmery (95% similar).
- Sydney Grace Robert (Deep) (PiP, $5.25) is darker (95% similar).
- ColourPop Taboo (PiP, $4.50) is warmer (90% similar).
- theBalm Woodie (LE, $16.00) is warmer (90% similar).
- Kevyn Aucoin Dark Chocolate (LE, ) is darker, 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
Persuade
LELimited Edition. $17.00.
Dance in the Dark
Dance in the Dark is a blackened brown with cool undertones and a matte finish. It had slightly more than semi-opaque coverage in a single layer, which was buildable to opaque coverage with another layer. This shade had a drier, firmer consistency that made for more difficult blending, but it was one of the better versions I’ve come across for this shade. It started to fade after eight hours of wear.
FURTHER READING: Formula Overview for details on general performance and characteristics (like scent).
Top Dupes
- Tarte Smokeshow (PiP, ) is cooler (95% similar).
- NARS Bali (DC, $25.00) is lighter (95% similar).
- Tarte Wind Down Brown (LE, ) (95% similar).
- Burberry Graphite (No. 28) (DC, $29.00) is darker (95% similar).
- Tarte Dim the Lights (LE, ) is cooler (95% similar).
- Charlotte Tilbury The Rock Chick #4 (PiP, ) is cooler (95% similar).
- Hourglass Infinity #5 (PiP, ) is lighter (95% similar).
- Zoeva Beans are White (PiP, ) is lighter (95% similar).
- Tarte Ice Cream Cone (LE, ) (100% similar).
- theBalm Matt Ramirez (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.
Dance in the Dark
PiPPermanent in Palette. $17.00.
Carbon
Carbon is a dark black with neutral-to-warm undertones and a matte finish. The color payoff was good, while the texture was soft enough that it wasn’t firm in the pan, but there was still a dryness present that made it easier to blend by applying sheerer, softer layers than using it at higher coverage levels as the edges looked dry and uneven. This shade wore well for eight hours on me.
Editor’s Note: Excuse the double photos of Carbon! It’s in another palette released in this launch, so it’s automatically picking up both sets of photos for the shade’s slideshow!
FURTHER READING: Formula Overview for details on general performance and characteristics (like scent).
Top Dupes
- Make Up For Ever #04 (DC, $20.00) (100% similar).
- MAC Bleuluxe #5 (PiP, ) (100% similar).
- KVD Beauty Killing Moon (LE, ) (100% similar).
- Too Faced Sin City (LE, $16.00) is lighter (95% similar).
- KVD Beauty Hard Magic (LE, ) is warmer (95% similar).
- bareMinerals Lights Down (P, ) is lighter (95% similar).
- Anastasia Noir (P, $12.00) is darker (95% similar).
- MAC Overnight (LE, $17.00) is brighter (95% similar).
- Sephora Obsidian (PiP, ) is warmer (95% similar).
- Melt Cosmetics Dark Matter (PiP, ) 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.
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)]
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.
Looks Using this Product
Carbon
LELimited Edition. $17.00.
MAC Semi-Sweet Times Nine Eyeshadow x 9 Palette
MAC Semi-Sweet Times Nine Eyeshadow x 9 Palette
MAC Semi-Sweet Times Nine Eyeshadow x 9 Palette
MAC Semi-Sweet Times Nine Eyeshadow x 9 Palette
MAC Semi-Sweet Times Nine Eyeshadow x 9 Palette
MAC Semi-Sweet | Look Breakdown
MAC Semi-Sweet | Look Breakdown
MAC Drawing a Blanc Eyeshadow
MAC Drawing a Blanc Eyeshadow
MAC Bamboo Eyeshadow
MAC Bamboo Eyeshadow
MAC Outre Eyeshadow
MAC Outre Eyeshadow
MAC Pink Sienna Eyeshadow
MAC Pink Sienna Eyeshadow
MAC Mocha Minded Eyeshadow
MAC Mocha Minded Eyeshadow
MAC Everyone's Darling Eyeshadow
MAC Everyone's Darling Eyeshadow
MAC Persuade Eyeshadow
MAC Persuade Eyeshadow
MAC Dance in the Dark Eyeshadow
MAC Dance in the Dark Eyeshadow
MAC Carbon Eyeshadow
I was eyeing this, but I already have MAC C’est Chic and I think there’s too much overlap -2 of the shades are repeats ( Carbon & Dancing in the Dark), 5 of them are similar/same color family, so there’s 2 that are unique to me (yellow tan and the beautiful red), so will be checking the dupe list for the red, Everyone’s Darling
And both of those types of shades are so dark that unless you’re doing deep smoky eyes all the time, they might take a lifetime to finish, lol!
When will this palette be available???….I need pink sienna!!!..may be the reason I but the whole palette just for that shade!…? I can’t find this anywhere….
Thursday!
This reminds me of thebalm Meet Matte Trimony palette, which is an excellent matte palette (and currently 50% off until 10am PST). Same color scheme. But I generally like MAC’s matte shadows, too, so I’m sure this is workable.
And the Carbon in each palette looks different….. I like this, though the colors aren’t my current faves. Would not get much use. Think what I am responding to is the different take on a neutral palette, as well as the fact that this is not very duped in my stash. I don’t have extensive MAC. But, I know it’d have muddy factor on me. But I do appreciate it.
It’s a better Carbon than the usual, I suppose!
Oh, in love with Outre..
Do you think it wiil be available as a single shade?
MAC does not add many shades to their permanent line, so I wouldn’t count on it.
I like Outre a lot.
Tempting! But only for Outre, Everyone’s Darling, Persuade, and the BEST version of Carbon I’ve ever seen! Other than those exceptions, it looks like all my other neutral matte shades across palettes. I do own Bamboo and 2 Dancing In The Dark’s, though.
Your Carbon looks better than some of the others I’ve seen bloggers get. I like the neutral to cool toned browns/pinks in this one.
I liked the look of this in the Sneak Peak. But i’m so lukewarm about it now. I don’t know what happened, but all my like for this is gone!!
I can’t use eyeshadow due to my hooded watery eyes, but I really want it. I am a sucker for matte eyeshadows, which can be used during the day/job. I really wish I could use it.
This is not my kind of palette – too warm, too matte, but for MAC it’s pretty good. Although there are many re promotes, as you have stated Christine, having these shades in one palette could be handy.
OMG I want this! It looks so perfect ❤ I can’t help myself!
I really like the colors except the 3 darker ones, I feel they would look too similar on lids maybe?