MAC x Aaliyah Age Ain't Nothing Eyeshadow x 9 Palette Review, Photos, Swatches
Age Ain't Nothing
MAC Age Ain’t Nothing Eyeshadow x 9 Palette ($32.00 for 0.19 oz.) is a new, limited edition neutral palette that releases June 20th online. Five of the nine shades have been released before (across various palettes/collections), but I personally felt that the formulation behind the eyeshadows (in general) was different than MAC’s typical formula–it was much more like the formula used in the recent Patrick Starrr collections, so softer, more velvety mattes and creamier, more silicone-heavy shimmers. The palette was a mixed bag–it’s workable, but it’s not stellar–and it’d really only be practical for someone who uses primers and doesn’t mind fingertips/adhesive base/dampening a brush to get the most out of the shimmers (and the least fallout).
Look Using this Product
Age Ain't Nothing
LELimited Edition. $32.00.
Lovesmoke
Lovesmoke is a bright silver with subtle, warm undertones and a metallic finish. It had semi-opaque pigmentation with a soft, blendable texture that was easy to use and build up on the lid. The texture did not feel quite as creamy or as dense as most Veluxe Pearls, though. It wore well for seven and a half hours on me before creasing faintly.
FURTHER READING: Formula Overview for details on general performance and characteristics (like scent).
Top Dupes
- Too Faced String of Lights (LE, $16.00) is cooler (95% similar).
- Giorgio Armani Ice (43) (P, $30.00) is less shimmery, darker (95% similar).
- Sleek MakeUP Pretty in Paris (LE, $9.99) is brighter (95% similar).
- Lancome Tower Bridge (LE, $19.00) is more shimmery (90% similar).
- bareMinerals Silver Dollar (LE, $14.00) is darker (90% similar).
- MAC Extra Silver (LE, $20.00) is more shimmery (90% similar).
- MAC High Concept (LE, $17.00) is cooler (90% similar).
- Ulta Silver (P, $10.00) is warmer (90% similar).
- Cle de Peau Pewter Veil #4 (LE, ) is more shimmery, warmer (90% similar).
- Tom Ford Beauty Lilac Dream #2 (PiP, ) is more shimmery (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
Lovesmoke
LELimited Edition. $17.00.
Magic Moor
Magic Moor is a purplish-brown with warm undertones and a pearly sheen. It had rich color coverage in a single layer that applied evenly and smoothly to bare skin. The eyeshadow was soft, blendable, and easy to work with. It stayed on nicely for eight hours before fading slightly.
FURTHER READING: Formula Overview for details on general performance and characteristics (like scent).
Top Dupes
- LORAC Deep Purple (PiP, $19.00) is lighter (95% similar).
- Too Faced Better Together (LE, $16.00) is darker, warmer (95% similar).
- MAC 2x Dare #5 (LE, ) is darker, more muted, cooler (90% similar).
- Urban Decay Rockstar (DC, $19.00) is lighter, cooler (90% similar).
- Laura Mercier Violet Steel (LE, $23.00) is more shimmery, lighter (90% similar).
- Tarte Lavender Bubble Bath (LE, ) is darker (90% similar).
- MAC Stolen Moment (P, $20.00) is more shimmery (90% similar).
- Urban Decay Darkside (PiP, $19.00) is more shimmery, lighter (90% similar).
- NARS Subra (P, $29.00) is darker (95% similar).
- MAC Twilight Falls (LE, $21.00) is darker, more muted, 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.
Look Using this Product
Magic Moor
LELimited Edition. $17.00.
Care 4 You
Care 4 You is a medium plum with subtle, warm undertones and a metallic sheen. It had good pigmentation, but it is a Lustre finish, which is the brand’s sheer (and more glittery) finish. The texture was slightly creamy, but it seemed to be less finely-milled so it looked a little dry when initially applied. I was able to press it into the skin, and after a few minutes, it seemed to “melt” and look just fine (no dryness). It wore well for seven and a half hours on me before creasing.
FURTHER READING: Formula Overview for details on general performance and characteristics (like scent).
Top Dupes
- City Color U Jelly? (P, $6.99) is brighter (95% similar).
- NABLA Cosmetics Juno Moon (P, $8.00) is darker (95% similar).
- Buxom Wild Nights (P, $12.00) is more shimmery, warmer (90% similar).
- Viseart Chant (PiP, ) is darker, warmer (90% similar).
- Sydney Grace Go for It (P, $6.25) is more shimmery, cooler (90% similar).
- MAC Plum Dressing (DC, $17.00) is less shimmery, darker (90% similar).
- ColourPop Bloomer (LE, $6.00) is more shimmery, lighter (90% similar).
- MAC Serenade (LE, $17.00) is lighter (90% similar).
- ColourPop Cufflinks (PiP, $4.50) is less shimmery, lighter, warmer (90% similar).
- MAC Babe in Charms (P, $23.00) is less 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
Care 4 You
LELimited Edition. $17.00.
Creative Copper
Creative Copper is a light-medium gold with warm undertones and a sparkling, metallic finish. It was more softly pressed in the pan, and it was a shade that I’d recommend using with a dampened brush or with a flat brush and pressing/pushing motions to minimize fallout and improve adhesion of the larger sparkles, though the base itself applied fine without having to make any adjustments. It had opaque pigmentation, but it’s supposed to be a Lustre finish, which is a sheerer formula. It lasted for seven and a half hours on me.
FURTHER READING: Formula Overview for details on general performance and characteristics (like scent).
Top Dupes
- MAC Up the Ante (LE, $16.50) is more shimmery (95% similar).
- Too Faced Honey Honey (LE, $16.00) is less shimmery (95% similar).
- Urban Decay Half Baked (DC, $19.00) is lighter (85% similar).
- MAC Brownluxe #3 (PiP, ) is darker, warmer (90% similar).
- Urban Decay Half Baked (LE, $19.00) is less shimmery, darker (90% similar).
- Viseart Petit Pro #6 (LE, ) is cooler (90% similar).
- MAC Exquisite Ego #2 (LE, $21.00) is lighter, brighter (90% similar).
- MAC Phresh Out #2 (LE, ) is darker, more muted (90% similar).
- theBalm Manic Maribel (LE, $16.00) is darker (95% similar).
- Too Faced Angel Hair (LE, $16.00) is less 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.
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.
Looks Using this Product
Creative Copper
PiPPermanent in Palette. $17.00.
That Somebody
That Somebody is a soft brown with warm, golden undertones and a mostly matte finish. The pigmentation was nearly opaque, and it definitely built up to full coverage with less than half of a layer more. The consistency was smooth and velvety without being too powdery, so it had a softness that enabled blending but didn’t have fallout. It stayed on well for eight hours on me.
FURTHER READING: Formula Overview for details on general performance and characteristics (like scent).
Top Dupes
- Chanel Candeur et Experience #2 (PiP, ) is lighter (95% similar).
- Tom Ford Beauty Mink Mirage #2 (PiP, ) is darker, cooler (90% similar).
- Anastasia Sand Castle (LE, $12.00) is lighter (90% similar).
- ColourPop Chicana (PiP, $4.50) is darker (90% similar).
- MAC Bling Mistress (LE, ) is lighter (90% similar).
- Make Up For Ever M647 Speculoos (P, $17.00) is darker (90% similar).
- Viseart Arrow (PiP, ) is lighter, cooler (90% similar).
- Kevyn Aucoin Camel (LE, ) is darker (90% similar).
- NABLA Cosmetics Beauty Mark (PiP, $8.00) is darker (90% similar).
- Melt Cosmetics Stubborn (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
That Somebody
LELimited Edition. $17.00.
Princess of Soul
Princess of Soul is a muted, medium-dark dirty brown with olive undertones and a matte finish. It had good color coverage that was buildable to opaque coverage using two layers. The texture was soft, velvety, and very finely-milled, which made blending very easy to do. It wore well for eight hours before fading slightly on me.
FURTHER READING: Formula Overview for details on general performance and characteristics (like scent).
Top Dupes
- Buxom Big Spender (P, $12.00) is darker, cooler (95% similar).
- Tarte Hot Stone Massage (LE, ) is lighter (95% similar).
- Urban Decay Dare (LE, $19.00) is lighter (95% similar).
- Makeup Geek Creased (LE, $6.00) is lighter (95% similar).
- KVD Beauty Fawn (Contour) (LE, ) is lighter (95% similar).
- Giorgio Armani Taupe Smoke (19) (DC, $39.00) is warmer (95% similar).
- MAC Charcoal Brown (P, $17.00) is lighter (95% similar).
- theBalm Sultry (P, $16.00) is warmer (95% similar).
- MAC Aromatic (P, $17.00) is more muted (95% similar).
- Too Faced Faux Fur Only (LE, $16.00) is warmer (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
Princess of Soul
LELimited Edition. $17.00.
Deception
Deception is a mediu, bronzy taupe with a glittering finish. The consistency was very loosely pressed in the pan and had a drier texture; though it held its form in the pan, when swatched, it was like there was nothing to bind the product together. This shade has been released in the past, and it was far better than the version in this palette, which amounted to little more than loose sand. There was no wear time as nothing adhered without using a tacky base and packing it on (and then it was merely mediocre instead of an abysmal failure).
FURTHER READING: Formula Overview for details on general performance and characteristics (like scent).
Top Dupes
- 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).
- Urban Decay Horizon (DC, $20.00) is more shimmery (90% similar).
- Tarte Steel the Scene (LE, ) is less shimmery (90% similar).
- MAC Damson (LE, $21.00) (100% similar).
- Too Faced Brown Sugar (LE, $16.00) is less shimmery, darker (85% similar).
- Clarins Nude #3 (PiP, ) is lighter, cooler (85% similar).
- MAC Roasted Chestnut (LE, $32.50) is darker, 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.
Deception
LELimited Edition. $17.00.
Gingersnap
Gingersnap is a soft, rosy copper with warm undertones and a metallic finish. It was richly pigmented with a smooth, creamy texture that spread and blended out well on my lid. The only downside was that I have found that the newer shimmer formula that seems to be more silicone-based fades/creases faster on me than MAC’s typical eyeshadow formula. The color stayed on well for seven and a half hours.
FURTHER READING: Formula Overview for details on general performance and characteristics (like scent).
Top Dupes
- Charlotte Tilbury Pillow Talk Dreams #3 (PiP, ) is more shimmery (95% similar).
- Smashbox Siesta (PiP, ) is less shimmery (95% similar).
- MAC Sexy Eyes (LE, $17.00) is warmer (95% similar).
- MAC Red Alert (LE, $17.00) is darker (90% similar).
- NYX Fireball (P, $6.00) is more shimmery (90% similar).
- ColourPop Arrow (P, $6.00) is more shimmery, cooler (90% similar).
- Natasha Denona Cyclone (138DC) (DC, $29.00) is darker (90% similar).
- Laura Mercier Star Ruby (LE, ) is more shimmery (90% similar).
- Makeup Geek Roulette (DC, $6.00) is more shimmery, brighter (90% similar).
- ColourPop Racks (LE, $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.
Look Using this Product
Gingersnap
PiPPermanent in Palette. $17.00.
Dance in the Dark
Dance in the Dark is a deep, purplish brown with cool undertones and a matte finish. It had opaque pigmentation that applied fairly well and blended out with moderate effort. The texture was firmer and stiffer in the pan compared to the other mattes in the palette, but it was significantly easier to work with than most other versions I’ve tried of this shade. It wore well for eight hours before fading noticeably.
FURTHER READING: Formula Overview for details on general performance and characteristics (like scent).
Top Dupes
- Tarte Smokeshow (PiP, ) is cooler (95% similar).
- Zoeva Beans are White (PiP, ) is lighter (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).
- Tarte Ice Cream Cone (LE, ) (100% similar).
- theBalm #15 (P, $6.50) 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.
I’m still digging this, even though it’s a shame Deception is such a dud. I’m on the fence about getting it.
Since I definitely believe that this awful version of Deception is what brought the overall grade down by a lot, I’m still buying one for me and one for my daughter.
I will say this to MAC: Thank you for listening to us, Aaliyah’s fans. However, y’all could’ve done this collection more justice! That bronzer? It will barely show up on my NC37-40 self, Aaliyah was darker than me, many Aaliyah fans are much deeper completed than her. This palette? Nice, but where’s the deep blues? Deception sucks! The lip products are the clear winners.
*complected. I’m still having to “train” my keyboard…. ?
Aw, Deception looked nice in the pan but too bad it hardly packed on. That’s a pretty look you created! 🙂
This palette could have been really nice as I actually like the shades chosen, particularly the lovely plum shade Magic Moor.
However there were some dismal failures – Deception being the most notable.
How on earth could MAC get a brown shimmer so wrong and put it out?
I think overall most of the Aaliyah fans will find this palette workable if not really stellar or representative of Aaliyah’s esthetic. I am trying to find the silver lining in this release! As many of us have said before, if MAC is going to honor or memorialize someone it would be nice if they looked like they knew who the person was and then spend the time to make the products really great quality.
Hi! How many versions of Magic Moor have we? I think I see a different swatch in the swatch gallery, more sheer and light. Thank you!
There have been several iterations.
Deception looked very bad. The remainder looked decent. I just don’t believe I am lacking in these colors.
Nice little palette, but Deception is deceptively bad (sorry, couldn’t resist throwing that in!)
I feel a bit like MAC was trying to give off general ’90s vibes with this color story, but the choices don’t ring true to me as particularly Aaliyah, and it’s too bad there are total misses. I loved her spread for Vibe, and the makeup for the music video for Are You That Somebody. If they had picked a deep green, instead of purple, I think it would have been instantly recognizable as a tribute to that music video — why would they use brown? If they named the brown shade It’s a Vibe or something, it would have made more sense. A blue-ish purple could have worked for Try Again. Care 4 You could have been matte peach – why purple? There was so much opportunity with this release. I’m not sure I understand the gingersnap reference, and this color doesn’t strike me as one that relates to her? Out of all of Aaliyah’s works, I wish they wouldn’t have titled this after Age Ain’t Nothing, considering her relationship to industry mentor R. Kelly beginning at least around 14 and marriage at 15 🙁
Gingersnap is a previously released shade!
The ones that are new: Lovesmoke, Care 4 You, That Somebody, and Princess of Soul. The others have been released before!
Ah! Of course. I wondered for a second if she appeared in the campy horror flick Ginger Snaps.
I was thinking the exact same thing about the name of the palette being a bad choice.
Yep. The palette is on sale now and typically I would get it without a second thought because I’m a MAC palette lemming but the name of the palette is very off-putting.
I am still torn whether I want the eyeshadow palette..sigh. MAC eyeshadows are too much hit and miss all at once. That deception color is horrid. I wish they would of did an eyeshadow palette inspired by one of her music videos instead.
One of my make-up dilemmas is if Gingersnap is really permanent or not. 😆 You cannot buy it as a palette refill/single eyeshadows, but keeps re-appearing in many pre-made palettes.