MAC x eL Seed Cicero Eyeshadow Palette Review & Swatches
Cicero
MAC Cicero Eyeshadow x15 Palette ($66.00 for 0.68 oz.) is a limited edition palette that launched a month or two ago, though it’s still available (hence the review). Two shades–Gabriella and Vidigal–are technically blushes (aka they’re not safe for use on eyes), and the palette includes a few permanent shades (like Shroom, Honey Lust, Texture, Handwritten, and Carbon). It’s a mixed bag, which is why it remained a lower priority item relative to the numerous other palettes that have launched in the past several weeks.
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).
- ColourPop Making Moves (P, $4.50) is lighter (95% similar).
- Make Up For Ever M100 Black (P, $17.00) is warmer (95% similar).
- Marc Jacobs Beauty The Enigma #1 (PiP, ) is warmer (95% similar).
- Urban Decay Superstar (LE, $19.00) is more shimmery (95% similar).
- Sephora Black Lace (DC, $10.00) is lighter (95% similar).
- LORAC Shiver Me (LE, $19.00) is lighter (95% similar).
- Too Faced Au Natural (PiP, $16.00) is darker (95% similar).
Ingredients
Cicero
LELimited Edition. $66.00.
Shroom
Shroom is a soft beige with subtle, warm undertones and a frosted sheen. It had nearly opaque pigmentation with a slightly firmer consistency, but I didn’t have any trouble picking up the product evenly with a brush. The eyeshadow applied evenly to bare skin and blended out well along the edges. 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
- ColourPop Bluebell (LE, $4.50) is less shimmery, lighter (95% similar).
- KVD Beauty Lyric (LE, ) is less shimmery (95% similar).
- Chanel Quadrille #2 (LE, ) is more shimmery, warmer (95% similar).
- bareMinerals Celebrate (LE, ) is more shimmery (95% similar).
- ColourPop Shotgun (LE, $4.50) is darker (95% similar).
- Chanel Tisse Vendome #2 (PiP, ) is more shimmery (95% similar).
- YSL Saharienne #1 (PiP, ) is warmer (95% similar).
- NARS Topless (LE, $29.00) is darker, cooler (95% similar).
- LORAC Shiver Me (LE, $19.00) is lighter (95% similar).
- ColourPop Float (LE, $4.50) 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 , Caprylyl Glycol , Hexylene Glycol , Phenoxyethanol , [+/- Silica , Mica , Titanium Dioxide (Ci 77891) , Iron Oxides (Ci 77491, Ci 77492, Ci 77499) , Bismuth Oxychloride (Ci 77163) , Blue 1 Lake (Ci 42090) , Carmine (Ci 75470) , Chromium Hydroxide Green (Ci 77289) , Chromium Oxide Greens (Ci 77288) , Ferric Ferrocyanide (Ci 77510) , Manganese Violet (Ci 77742) , Red 40 Lake (Ci 16035) , Ultramarines (Ci 77007) , Yellow 5 Lake (Ci 19140)] Rds Product Name: Eye Shadow (Veluxe Pearl) Division: Mc (Mac)Ingredients: Talc , Zinc Stearate , Nylon-12 , Dimethicone , Octyldodecyl Stearoyl Stearate , Isostearyl Neopentanoate , Glycine Soja (Soybean) Seed Extract , Hordeum Vulgare (Barley) ExtractExtrait D'Orge , Triticum Vulgare (Wheat) Germ Extract , Tocopheryl Acetate , Ascorbyl Palmitate , Squalane , Caprylyl Glycol , Hexylene Glycol , Ceramide 3 , Cholesterol , Silica , Triethoxycaprylylsilane , Linoleic Acid , Phenoxyethanol , [+/- Mica , Titanium Dioxide (Ci 77891) , Iron Oxides (Ci 77491, Ci 77492, Ci 77499) , Bismuth Oxychloride (Ci 77163) , Blue 1 Lake (Ci 42090) , Carmine (Ci 75470) , Chromium Hydroxide Green (Ci 77289) , Chromium Oxide Greens (Ci 77288) , Ferric Ferrocyanide (Ci 77510) , Manganese Violet (Ci 77742) , Ultramarines (Ci 77007) , Yellow 5 Lake (Ci 19140)] Rds Product Name: Eye Shadow (Mac) Division: Mc (Mac)Ingredients: Talc , Zinc Stearate , Octyldodecyl Stearoyl Stearate , Isostearyl Neopentanoate , Tocopheryl Acetate , Synthetic Fluorphlogopite , Calcium Aluminum Borosilicate , Calcium Sodium Borosilicate , Aluminum Calcium Sodium Silicate , Triethoxycaprylylsilane , Tin Oxide , Silica , Caprylyl Glycol , Hexylene Glycol , Phenoxyethanol , [+/- Mica , Titanium Dioxide (Ci 77891) , Bismuth Oxychloride (Ci 77163) , Iron Oxides (Ci 77491, Ci 77492, Ci 77499) , Blue 1 Lake (Ci 42090) , Bronze Powder (Ci 77400) , Carmine (Ci 75470) , Chromium Hydroxide Green (Ci 77289) , Chromium Oxide Greens (Ci 77288) , Copper Powder (Ci 77400) , Ferric Ammonium Ferrocyanide (Ci 77510) , Ferric Ferrocyanide (Ci 77510) , Manganese Violet (Ci 77742) , Red 40 Lake (Ci 16035) , Ultramarines (Ci 77007) , Yellow 5 Lake (Ci 19140)] Rds Product Name: Powder Blush Division: Mc (Mac)Ingredients: Talc , Zinc Stearate , Calcium Aluminum Borosilicate , Octyldodecyl Stearoyl Stearate , Aluminum Calcium Sodium Silicate , Synthetic Fluorphlogopite , Isostearyl Neopentanoate , Calcium Sodium Borosilicate , Silica , Tocopheryl Acetate , Triethoxycaprylylsilane , Tin Oxide , Titanium/Titanium Dioxide , Caprylyl Glycol , Hexylene Glycol , Phenoxyethanol , [+/- Mica , Titanium Dioxide (Ci 77891) , Iron Oxides (Ci 77491) , Iron Oxides (Ci 77492) , Iron Oxides (Ci 77499) , Bismuth Oxychloride (Ci 77163) , Blue 1 Lake (Ci 42090) , Bronze Powder (Ci 77400) , Carmine (Ci 75470) , Chromium Hydroxide Green (Ci 77289) , Chromium Oxide Greens (Ci 77288) , Copper Powder (Ci 77400) , Ferric Ammonium Ferrocyanide (Ci 77510) , Ferric Ferrocyanide (Ci 77510) , Manganese Violet (Ci 77742) , Red 6 (Ci 15850) , Red 28 (Ci 45410) , Red 6 Lake (Ci 15850) , Red 7 Lake (Ci 15850) , Red 28 Lake (Ci 45410) , Red 30 Lake (Ci 73360) , Red 40 Lake (Ci 16035) , Ultramarines (Ci 77007) , Yellow 5 Lake (Ci 19140) , Yellow 6 Lake (Ci 15985)]
Disclaimer: Ingredient lists are as available by the brand (or retailer) at the time of publishing. Please always check product packaging, if it exists, for the ingredient list applicable to the product you're purchasing, or the brand or retailer's website for the most up-to-date ingredient list.
Shroom
PPermanent. $17.00.
Teboulbou
Teboulbou is a medium plum with strong, warm undertones and a metallic finish. It was intensely pigmented with a smooth, lightly creamy texture that wasn’t too dense but wasn’t thin or powdery either. The texture of this was one of the more finely-milled and silkier textures I’ve seen MAC put out in awhile. It stayed on well for eight hours on me before creasing faintly.
FURTHER READING: Formula Overview for details on general performance and characteristics (like scent).
Top Dupes
- ColourPop Like a Butterfly (LE, $6.00) is darker, warmer (95% similar).
- Kaja Mauve Veil (PiP, ) is more shimmery, lighter, cooler (90% similar).
- Huda Beauty Fling (Remastered) (PiP, ) is lighter (90% similar).
- Sephora Rosewood (LE, ) is more shimmery, lighter (90% similar).
- Makeup Geek Anarchy (DC, $6.00) is lighter (90% similar).
- Pat McGrath Optic Fuchsia (LE, $25.00) is more shimmery, darker, cooler (90% similar).
- Too Faced Dollhouse (LE, $16.00) is more shimmery, lighter (90% similar).
- Pat McGrath Duchess Divinity (LE, $25.00) is more shimmery, cooler (90% similar).
- Kaja Rose Quartz (P, $16.00) is more shimmery, lighter, cooler (90% similar).
- ColourPop Maze (LE, $4.50) 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.
Ingredients
Talc , Zinc Stearate , Octyldodecyl Stearoyl Stearate , Isostearyl Neopentanoate , Tocopheryl Acetate , Caprylyl Glycol , Hexylene Glycol , Phenoxyethanol , [+/- Silica , Mica , Titanium Dioxide (Ci 77891) , Iron Oxides (Ci 77491, Ci 77492, Ci 77499) , Bismuth Oxychloride (Ci 77163) , Blue 1 Lake (Ci 42090) , Carmine (Ci 75470) , Chromium Hydroxide Green (Ci 77289) , Chromium Oxide Greens (Ci 77288) , Ferric Ferrocyanide (Ci 77510) , Manganese Violet (Ci 77742) , Red 40 Lake (Ci 16035) , Ultramarines (Ci 77007) , Yellow 5 Lake (Ci 19140)] Rds Product Name: Eye Shadow (Veluxe Pearl) Division: Mc (Mac)Ingredients: Talc , Zinc Stearate , Nylon-12 , Dimethicone , Octyldodecyl Stearoyl Stearate , Isostearyl Neopentanoate , Glycine Soja (Soybean) Seed Extract , Hordeum Vulgare (Barley) ExtractExtrait D'Orge , Triticum Vulgare (Wheat) Germ Extract , Tocopheryl Acetate , Ascorbyl Palmitate , Squalane , Caprylyl Glycol , Hexylene Glycol , Ceramide 3 , Cholesterol , Silica , Triethoxycaprylylsilane , Linoleic Acid , Phenoxyethanol , [+/- Mica , Titanium Dioxide (Ci 77891) , Iron Oxides (Ci 77491, Ci 77492, Ci 77499) , Bismuth Oxychloride (Ci 77163) , Blue 1 Lake (Ci 42090) , Carmine (Ci 75470) , Chromium Hydroxide Green (Ci 77289) , Chromium Oxide Greens (Ci 77288) , Ferric Ferrocyanide (Ci 77510) , Manganese Violet (Ci 77742) , Ultramarines (Ci 77007) , Yellow 5 Lake (Ci 19140)] Rds Product Name: Eye Shadow (Mac) Division: Mc (Mac)Ingredients: Talc , Zinc Stearate , Octyldodecyl Stearoyl Stearate , Isostearyl Neopentanoate , Tocopheryl Acetate , Synthetic Fluorphlogopite , Calcium Aluminum Borosilicate , Calcium Sodium Borosilicate , Aluminum Calcium Sodium Silicate , Triethoxycaprylylsilane , Tin Oxide , Silica , Caprylyl Glycol , Hexylene Glycol , Phenoxyethanol , [+/- Mica , Titanium Dioxide (Ci 77891) , Bismuth Oxychloride (Ci 77163) , Iron Oxides (Ci 77491, Ci 77492, Ci 77499) , Blue 1 Lake (Ci 42090) , Bronze Powder (Ci 77400) , Carmine (Ci 75470) , Chromium Hydroxide Green (Ci 77289) , Chromium Oxide Greens (Ci 77288) , Copper Powder (Ci 77400) , Ferric Ammonium Ferrocyanide (Ci 77510) , Ferric Ferrocyanide (Ci 77510) , Manganese Violet (Ci 77742) , Red 40 Lake (Ci 16035) , Ultramarines (Ci 77007) , Yellow 5 Lake (Ci 19140)] Rds Product Name: Powder Blush Division: Mc (Mac)Ingredients: Talc , Zinc Stearate , Calcium Aluminum Borosilicate , Octyldodecyl Stearoyl Stearate , Aluminum Calcium Sodium Silicate , Synthetic Fluorphlogopite , Isostearyl Neopentanoate , Calcium Sodium Borosilicate , Silica , Tocopheryl Acetate , Triethoxycaprylylsilane , Tin Oxide , Titanium/Titanium Dioxide , Caprylyl Glycol , Hexylene Glycol , Phenoxyethanol , [+/- Mica , Titanium Dioxide (Ci 77891) , Iron Oxides (Ci 77491) , Iron Oxides (Ci 77492) , Iron Oxides (Ci 77499) , Bismuth Oxychloride (Ci 77163) , Blue 1 Lake (Ci 42090) , Bronze Powder (Ci 77400) , Carmine (Ci 75470) , Chromium Hydroxide Green (Ci 77289) , Chromium Oxide Greens (Ci 77288) , Copper Powder (Ci 77400) , Ferric Ammonium Ferrocyanide (Ci 77510) , Ferric Ferrocyanide (Ci 77510) , Manganese Violet (Ci 77742) , Red 6 (Ci 15850) , Red 28 (Ci 45410) , Red 6 Lake (Ci 15850) , Red 7 Lake (Ci 15850) , Red 28 Lake (Ci 45410) , Red 30 Lake (Ci 73360) , Red 40 Lake (Ci 16035) , Ultramarines (Ci 77007) , Yellow 5 Lake (Ci 19140) , Yellow 6 Lake (Ci 15985)]
Disclaimer: Ingredient lists are as available by the brand (or retailer) at the time of publishing. Please always check product packaging, if it exists, for the ingredient list applicable to the product you're purchasing, or the brand or retailer's website for the most up-to-date ingredient list.
Teboulbou
LELimited Edition. $17.00.
Honey Lust
Honey Lust is a soft copper with a sparkling finish. It was surprisingly firm and thin compared to most iterations of Honey Lust I’ve encountered over the years, so while it didn’t have as much fallout, it looked patchy and a bit uneven applied. It had semi-sheer pigmentation, which didn’t build up that well, but the Lustre finish is designed to be a sheerer formula. This shade wore well for seven hours hours on me before fading noticeably.
FURTHER READING: Formula Overview for details on general performance and characteristics (like scent).
Top Dupes
- MAC Collective Chic #1 (LE, ) is more shimmery (95% similar).
- MAC Copper Aura (LE, $17.00) is lighter (95% similar).
- ColourPop Catnap (LE, $6.00) is cooler (90% similar).
- LORAC Gold (DC, $19.00) is less shimmery, darker (80% similar).
- bareMinerals Tan Lines (LE, ) is darker, cooler (90% similar).
- bareMinerals Bragging Rights (LE, ) is more shimmery, darker (95% similar).
- Makeup Geek Glamorous (DC, $6.00) is less shimmery, darker (85% similar).
- Marc Jacobs Beauty The Starlet #4 (PiP, ) is more shimmery, darker, more pigmented (85% similar).
- Too Faced Citrus Mistress (P, $22.00) is more shimmery, lighter (85% similar).
- Sleek MakeUP Sunset #10 (PiP, $9.99) is more shimmery, lighter, brighter (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.
Ingredients
Talc , Zinc Stearate , Octyldodecyl Stearoyl Stearate , Isostearyl Neopentanoate , Tocopheryl Acetate , Caprylyl Glycol , Hexylene Glycol , Phenoxyethanol , [+/- Silica , Mica , Titanium Dioxide (Ci 77891) , Iron Oxides (Ci 77491, Ci 77492, Ci 77499) , Bismuth Oxychloride (Ci 77163) , Blue 1 Lake (Ci 42090) , Carmine (Ci 75470) , Chromium Hydroxide Green (Ci 77289) , Chromium Oxide Greens (Ci 77288) , Ferric Ferrocyanide (Ci 77510) , Manganese Violet (Ci 77742) , Red 40 Lake (Ci 16035) , Ultramarines (Ci 77007) , Yellow 5 Lake (Ci 19140)] Rds Product Name: Eye Shadow (Veluxe Pearl) Division: Mc (Mac)Ingredients: Talc , Zinc Stearate , Nylon-12 , Dimethicone , Octyldodecyl Stearoyl Stearate , Isostearyl Neopentanoate , Glycine Soja (Soybean) Seed Extract , Hordeum Vulgare (Barley) ExtractExtrait D'Orge , Triticum Vulgare (Wheat) Germ Extract , Tocopheryl Acetate , Ascorbyl Palmitate , Squalane , Caprylyl Glycol , Hexylene Glycol , Ceramide 3 , Cholesterol , Silica , Triethoxycaprylylsilane , Linoleic Acid , Phenoxyethanol , [+/- Mica , Titanium Dioxide (Ci 77891) , Iron Oxides (Ci 77491, Ci 77492, Ci 77499) , Bismuth Oxychloride (Ci 77163) , Blue 1 Lake (Ci 42090) , Carmine (Ci 75470) , Chromium Hydroxide Green (Ci 77289) , Chromium Oxide Greens (Ci 77288) , Ferric Ferrocyanide (Ci 77510) , Manganese Violet (Ci 77742) , Ultramarines (Ci 77007) , Yellow 5 Lake (Ci 19140)] Rds Product Name: Eye Shadow (Mac) Division: Mc (Mac)Ingredients: Talc , Zinc Stearate , Octyldodecyl Stearoyl Stearate , Isostearyl Neopentanoate , Tocopheryl Acetate , Synthetic Fluorphlogopite , Calcium Aluminum Borosilicate , Calcium Sodium Borosilicate , Aluminum Calcium Sodium Silicate , Triethoxycaprylylsilane , Tin Oxide , Silica , Caprylyl Glycol , Hexylene Glycol , Phenoxyethanol , [+/- Mica , Titanium Dioxide (Ci 77891) , Bismuth Oxychloride (Ci 77163) , Iron Oxides (Ci 77491, Ci 77492, Ci 77499) , Blue 1 Lake (Ci 42090) , Bronze Powder (Ci 77400) , Carmine (Ci 75470) , Chromium Hydroxide Green (Ci 77289) , Chromium Oxide Greens (Ci 77288) , Copper Powder (Ci 77400) , Ferric Ammonium Ferrocyanide (Ci 77510) , Ferric Ferrocyanide (Ci 77510) , Manganese Violet (Ci 77742) , Red 40 Lake (Ci 16035) , Ultramarines (Ci 77007) , Yellow 5 Lake (Ci 19140)] Rds Product Name: Powder Blush Division: Mc (Mac)Ingredients: Talc , Zinc Stearate , Calcium Aluminum Borosilicate , Octyldodecyl Stearoyl Stearate , Aluminum Calcium Sodium Silicate , Synthetic Fluorphlogopite , Isostearyl Neopentanoate , Calcium Sodium Borosilicate , Silica , Tocopheryl Acetate , Triethoxycaprylylsilane , Tin Oxide , Titanium/Titanium Dioxide , Caprylyl Glycol , Hexylene Glycol , Phenoxyethanol , [+/- Mica , Titanium Dioxide (Ci 77891) , Iron Oxides (Ci 77491) , Iron Oxides (Ci 77492) , Iron Oxides (Ci 77499) , Bismuth Oxychloride (Ci 77163) , Blue 1 Lake (Ci 42090) , Bronze Powder (Ci 77400) , Carmine (Ci 75470) , Chromium Hydroxide Green (Ci 77289) , Chromium Oxide Greens (Ci 77288) , Copper Powder (Ci 77400) , Ferric Ammonium Ferrocyanide (Ci 77510) , Ferric Ferrocyanide (Ci 77510) , Manganese Violet (Ci 77742) , Red 6 (Ci 15850) , Red 28 (Ci 45410) , Red 6 Lake (Ci 15850) , Red 7 Lake (Ci 15850) , Red 28 Lake (Ci 45410) , Red 30 Lake (Ci 73360) , Red 40 Lake (Ci 16035) , Ultramarines (Ci 77007) , Yellow 5 Lake (Ci 19140) , Yellow 6 Lake (Ci 15985)]
Disclaimer: Ingredient lists are as available by the brand (or retailer) at the time of publishing. Please always check product packaging, if it exists, for the ingredient list applicable to the product you're purchasing, or the brand or retailer's website for the most up-to-date ingredient list.
Honey Lust
PPermanent. $17.00.
Ksar
Ksar is a soft, yellow-leaning peach base with iridescent pink and lavender shimmer. The consistency was soft, a little drier, but it applied well to bare skin and blended out without difficulty. The pigmentation was mostly opaque and buildable to full coverage with less than half of a layer. It lasted 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
- LORAC Tulle (LE, $19.00) is more shimmery, cooler (90% similar).
- ColourPop Close to You (P, $9.00) is more shimmery, darker (90% similar).
- MAC Last Dance (P, $18.00) is more shimmery, darker (90% similar).
- MAC Carbon-Copy (LE, $17.00) is warmer (85% similar).
- Pat McGrath Angel Dust (LE, ) is more shimmery, darker, warmer (85% similar).
- KVD Beauty Glitz (DC, $21.00) is more shimmery, cooler (85% similar).
- Urban Decay Sellout (DC, $19.00).
- MAC Jest (P, $17.00).
- Marc Jacobs Beauty The Tease #4 (PiP, ).
- LORAC Champagne (PiP, $19.00).
- MAC MACnificent Me (LE, $17.00).
Formula Overview
$17.00/0.05 oz. - $340.00 Per Ounce
The formula is supposed to be a "highly pigmented powder" that goes on "evenly and blends well." MAC eyeshadows run the gamut from total failures to long-time, cult-favorite staples. In general, the permanent line has been more consistent in performance--and higher performance at that--compared to limited edition launches, but it can really depend.
The Matte finish tends to have a firmer press and a bit of thinness compared to other matte formulas on the market, so MAC matte eyeshadows tend to build up better and have better wear-time without fallout as they're not powdery at all. Some of the newer matte finish shades have had a more velvety quality to them that gives them a softer feel but aren't powdery; these have been easier to blend and are often more pigmented in one layer.
The Lustre finish is designed to have sheerer pigmentation, and it often has more sheer to medium coverage with a drier, dustier consistency that can be hard to apply with a dry brush. Lustre finish shades can suffer from fallout during application, too. They are the old school version of an eyeshadow "topper." I would recommend applying with a fingertip or applying with a dampened brush to get smoother, more even coverage and minimize fallout.
The Satin finish is few and far in-between, but it is softer and more yielding than the Matte finish but performs similarly. They tend to have very low sheen but are quite blendable with medium to opaque coverage. It can be easy to mix the finish up with the Velvet finish, which has more of a sparkle-over-matte effect but are more powdery than the true Matte finish.
The Frost finish is more firmly-pressed into the pan but doesn't have fallout, is often pigmented, and blends out well enough. They can sometimes be a little drier to the touch depending on how much shimmer is in the shade. The Veluxe Pearl finish is one of the creamier takes within the range, and newer shades released in the finish tend to have more moderate, silicone-like slip. I've found that Veluxe Pearl finish shades tend to have more semi-opaque pigmentation and are more consistent in performance than some of the other finishes.
One thing I've found with MAC eyeshadows is that they tend to last longer without primer than the average brand (eight hours). While some eyeshadow shades don't swatch well, they often apply better in practice--as in on the eyes!--than just swatched on the skin. They can be quite hit or miss, and they have inconsistencies between releases (see Carbon and its sordid review history!).
Browse all of our MAC Eyeshadow swatches.
Ingredients
Talc , Zinc Stearate , Octyldodecyl Stearoyl Stearate , Isostearyl Neopentanoate , Tocopheryl Acetate , Caprylyl Glycol , Hexylene Glycol , Phenoxyethanol , [+/- Silica , Mica , Titanium Dioxide (Ci 77891) , Iron Oxides (Ci 77491, Ci 77492, Ci 77499) , Bismuth Oxychloride (Ci 77163) , Blue 1 Lake (Ci 42090) , Carmine (Ci 75470) , Chromium Hydroxide Green (Ci 77289) , Chromium Oxide Greens (Ci 77288) , Ferric Ferrocyanide (Ci 77510) , Manganese Violet (Ci 77742) , Red 40 Lake (Ci 16035) , Ultramarines (Ci 77007) , Yellow 5 Lake (Ci 19140)] Rds Product Name: Eye Shadow (Veluxe Pearl) Division: Mc (Mac)Ingredients: Talc , Zinc Stearate , Nylon-12 , Dimethicone , Octyldodecyl Stearoyl Stearate , Isostearyl Neopentanoate , Glycine Soja (Soybean) Seed Extract , Hordeum Vulgare (Barley) ExtractExtrait D'Orge , Triticum Vulgare (Wheat) Germ Extract , Tocopheryl Acetate , Ascorbyl Palmitate , Squalane , Caprylyl Glycol , Hexylene Glycol , Ceramide 3 , Cholesterol , Silica , Triethoxycaprylylsilane , Linoleic Acid , Phenoxyethanol , [+/- Mica , Titanium Dioxide (Ci 77891) , Iron Oxides (Ci 77491, Ci 77492, Ci 77499) , Bismuth Oxychloride (Ci 77163) , Blue 1 Lake (Ci 42090) , Carmine (Ci 75470) , Chromium Hydroxide Green (Ci 77289) , Chromium Oxide Greens (Ci 77288) , Ferric Ferrocyanide (Ci 77510) , Manganese Violet (Ci 77742) , Ultramarines (Ci 77007) , Yellow 5 Lake (Ci 19140)] Rds Product Name: Eye Shadow (Mac) Division: Mc (Mac)Ingredients: Talc , Zinc Stearate , Octyldodecyl Stearoyl Stearate , Isostearyl Neopentanoate , Tocopheryl Acetate , Synthetic Fluorphlogopite , Calcium Aluminum Borosilicate , Calcium Sodium Borosilicate , Aluminum Calcium Sodium Silicate , Triethoxycaprylylsilane , Tin Oxide , Silica , Caprylyl Glycol , Hexylene Glycol , Phenoxyethanol , [+/- Mica , Titanium Dioxide (Ci 77891) , Bismuth Oxychloride (Ci 77163) , Iron Oxides (Ci 77491, Ci 77492, Ci 77499) , Blue 1 Lake (Ci 42090) , Bronze Powder (Ci 77400) , Carmine (Ci 75470) , Chromium Hydroxide Green (Ci 77289) , Chromium Oxide Greens (Ci 77288) , Copper Powder (Ci 77400) , Ferric Ammonium Ferrocyanide (Ci 77510) , Ferric Ferrocyanide (Ci 77510) , Manganese Violet (Ci 77742) , Red 40 Lake (Ci 16035) , Ultramarines (Ci 77007) , Yellow 5 Lake (Ci 19140)] Rds Product Name: Powder Blush Division: Mc (Mac)Ingredients: Talc , Zinc Stearate , Calcium Aluminum Borosilicate , Octyldodecyl Stearoyl Stearate , Aluminum Calcium Sodium Silicate , Synthetic Fluorphlogopite , Isostearyl Neopentanoate , Calcium Sodium Borosilicate , Silica , Tocopheryl Acetate , Triethoxycaprylylsilane , Tin Oxide , Titanium/Titanium Dioxide , Caprylyl Glycol , Hexylene Glycol , Phenoxyethanol , [+/- Mica , Titanium Dioxide (Ci 77891) , Iron Oxides (Ci 77491) , Iron Oxides (Ci 77492) , Iron Oxides (Ci 77499) , Bismuth Oxychloride (Ci 77163) , Blue 1 Lake (Ci 42090) , Bronze Powder (Ci 77400) , Carmine (Ci 75470) , Chromium Hydroxide Green (Ci 77289) , Chromium Oxide Greens (Ci 77288) , Copper Powder (Ci 77400) , Ferric Ammonium Ferrocyanide (Ci 77510) , Ferric Ferrocyanide (Ci 77510) , Manganese Violet (Ci 77742) , Red 6 (Ci 15850) , Red 28 (Ci 45410) , Red 6 Lake (Ci 15850) , Red 7 Lake (Ci 15850) , Red 28 Lake (Ci 45410) , Red 30 Lake (Ci 73360) , Red 40 Lake (Ci 16035) , Ultramarines (Ci 77007) , Yellow 5 Lake (Ci 19140) , Yellow 6 Lake (Ci 15985)]
Disclaimer: Ingredient lists are as available by the brand (or retailer) at the time of publishing. Please always check product packaging, if it exists, for the ingredient list applicable to the product you're purchasing, or the brand or retailer's website for the most up-to-date ingredient list.
Ksar
LELimited Edition. $17.00.
Chott
Chott is a pale pewter with subtle, warm undertones and a frosted finish. It had good pigmentation with a soft, blendable consistency that felt firmer in the pan but wasn’t difficult to pick up or to apply to my lid. The color stayed on nicely for eight hours on me before fading noticeably.
FURTHER READING: Formula Overview for details on general performance and characteristics (like scent).
Top Dupes
- NARS Antares (P, $29.00) is more shimmery, lighter, cooler (95% similar).
- NARS Give In Take I (LE, $29.00) is less shimmery, darker, warmer (90% similar).
- Urban Decay Verve (DC, $19.00) is more shimmery, darker, cooler (90% similar).
- Dior Capital of Light #2 (LE, ) is more shimmery (90% similar).
- Bobbi Brown Sea Glass (LE, $21.00) is less shimmery, darker (90% similar).
- Sydney Grace Biscotti (P, $6.25) is darker, cooler (85% similar).
- Too Faced Indulge (LE, $16.00) is more shimmery, darker, warmer (85% similar).
- ColourPop Glitterati (P, $6.00) is more shimmery, darker, cooler (85% similar).
- Cle de Peau Serenity (Right) (PiP, ) is darker, warmer (85% similar).
- Hourglass Graphite #5 (PiP, ) is more 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.
Ingredients
Talc , Zinc Stearate , Octyldodecyl Stearoyl Stearate , Isostearyl Neopentanoate , Tocopheryl Acetate , Caprylyl Glycol , Hexylene Glycol , Phenoxyethanol , [+/- Silica , Mica , Titanium Dioxide (Ci 77891) , Iron Oxides (Ci 77491, Ci 77492, Ci 77499) , Bismuth Oxychloride (Ci 77163) , Blue 1 Lake (Ci 42090) , Carmine (Ci 75470) , Chromium Hydroxide Green (Ci 77289) , Chromium Oxide Greens (Ci 77288) , Ferric Ferrocyanide (Ci 77510) , Manganese Violet (Ci 77742) , Red 40 Lake (Ci 16035) , Ultramarines (Ci 77007) , Yellow 5 Lake (Ci 19140)] Rds Product Name: Eye Shadow (Veluxe Pearl) Division: Mc (Mac)Ingredients: Talc , Zinc Stearate , Nylon-12 , Dimethicone , Octyldodecyl Stearoyl Stearate , Isostearyl Neopentanoate , Glycine Soja (Soybean) Seed Extract , Hordeum Vulgare (Barley) ExtractExtrait D'Orge , Triticum Vulgare (Wheat) Germ Extract , Tocopheryl Acetate , Ascorbyl Palmitate , Squalane , Caprylyl Glycol , Hexylene Glycol , Ceramide 3 , Cholesterol , Silica , Triethoxycaprylylsilane , Linoleic Acid , Phenoxyethanol , [+/- Mica , Titanium Dioxide (Ci 77891) , Iron Oxides (Ci 77491, Ci 77492, Ci 77499) , Bismuth Oxychloride (Ci 77163) , Blue 1 Lake (Ci 42090) , Carmine (Ci 75470) , Chromium Hydroxide Green (Ci 77289) , Chromium Oxide Greens (Ci 77288) , Ferric Ferrocyanide (Ci 77510) , Manganese Violet (Ci 77742) , Ultramarines (Ci 77007) , Yellow 5 Lake (Ci 19140)] Rds Product Name: Eye Shadow (Mac) Division: Mc (Mac)Ingredients: Talc , Zinc Stearate , Octyldodecyl Stearoyl Stearate , Isostearyl Neopentanoate , Tocopheryl Acetate , Synthetic Fluorphlogopite , Calcium Aluminum Borosilicate , Calcium Sodium Borosilicate , Aluminum Calcium Sodium Silicate , Triethoxycaprylylsilane , Tin Oxide , Silica , Caprylyl Glycol , Hexylene Glycol , Phenoxyethanol , [+/- Mica , Titanium Dioxide (Ci 77891) , Bismuth Oxychloride (Ci 77163) , Iron Oxides (Ci 77491, Ci 77492, Ci 77499) , Blue 1 Lake (Ci 42090) , Bronze Powder (Ci 77400) , Carmine (Ci 75470) , Chromium Hydroxide Green (Ci 77289) , Chromium Oxide Greens (Ci 77288) , Copper Powder (Ci 77400) , Ferric Ammonium Ferrocyanide (Ci 77510) , Ferric Ferrocyanide (Ci 77510) , Manganese Violet (Ci 77742) , Red 40 Lake (Ci 16035) , Ultramarines (Ci 77007) , Yellow 5 Lake (Ci 19140)] Rds Product Name: Powder Blush Division: Mc (Mac)Ingredients: Talc , Zinc Stearate , Calcium Aluminum Borosilicate , Octyldodecyl Stearoyl Stearate , Aluminum Calcium Sodium Silicate , Synthetic Fluorphlogopite , Isostearyl Neopentanoate , Calcium Sodium Borosilicate , Silica , Tocopheryl Acetate , Triethoxycaprylylsilane , Tin Oxide , Titanium/Titanium Dioxide , Caprylyl Glycol , Hexylene Glycol , Phenoxyethanol , [+/- Mica , Titanium Dioxide (Ci 77891) , Iron Oxides (Ci 77491) , Iron Oxides (Ci 77492) , Iron Oxides (Ci 77499) , Bismuth Oxychloride (Ci 77163) , Blue 1 Lake (Ci 42090) , Bronze Powder (Ci 77400) , Carmine (Ci 75470) , Chromium Hydroxide Green (Ci 77289) , Chromium Oxide Greens (Ci 77288) , Copper Powder (Ci 77400) , Ferric Ammonium Ferrocyanide (Ci 77510) , Ferric Ferrocyanide (Ci 77510) , Manganese Violet (Ci 77742) , Red 6 (Ci 15850) , Red 28 (Ci 45410) , Red 6 Lake (Ci 15850) , Red 7 Lake (Ci 15850) , Red 28 Lake (Ci 45410) , Red 30 Lake (Ci 73360) , Red 40 Lake (Ci 16035) , Ultramarines (Ci 77007) , Yellow 5 Lake (Ci 19140) , Yellow 6 Lake (Ci 15985)]
Disclaimer: Ingredient lists are as available by the brand (or retailer) at the time of publishing. Please always check product packaging, if it exists, for the ingredient list applicable to the product you're purchasing, or the brand or retailer's website for the most up-to-date ingredient list.
Chott
LELimited Edition. $17.00.
Petit Lion
Petit Lion is a soft, peachy brown with warm undertones and a matte finish. The eyeshadow had nearly opaque color payoff in a single layer, which applied evenly to bare skin and blended out easily. The consistency was soft, a little powdery but not prone to sheering out or having fallout. It wore well for eight hours on me before it showed signs of wearing away.
FURTHER READING: Formula Overview for details on general performance and characteristics (like scent).
Top Dupes
- MAC Bamboo (DC, $17.00) is darker (95% similar).
- Too Faced Honey Butter (PiP, $16.00) is warmer (95% similar).
- Too Faced Au Natural (PiP, $16.00) is darker (95% similar).
- Dominique Cosmetics Fringe (LE, ) is lighter (95% similar).
- MAC Layin' Low (P, $23.00) is darker, cooler (95% similar).
- Too Faced So Boujee (LE, $16.00) is more muted, cooler (90% similar).
- Make Up For Ever M536 Milk Tea (DC, $21.00) is lighter, warmer (90% similar).
- ColourPop Velvet (LE, $4.50) is more muted, cooler (90% similar).
- ColourPop Cornelious (PiP, $6.00) is darker, cooler (90% similar).
- Viseart Grande Pro (Vol. 1) #7 (LE, ) is more muted, warmer (90% similar).
Formula Overview
$17.00/0.05 oz. - $340.00 Per Ounce
The formula is supposed to be a "highly pigmented powder" that goes on "evenly and blends well." MAC eyeshadows run the gamut from total failures to long-time, cult-favorite staples. In general, the permanent line has been more consistent in performance--and higher performance at that--compared to limited edition launches, but it can really depend.
The Matte finish tends to have a firmer press and a bit of thinness compared to other matte formulas on the market, so MAC matte eyeshadows tend to build up better and have better wear-time without fallout as they're not powdery at all. Some of the newer matte finish shades have had a more velvety quality to them that gives them a softer feel but aren't powdery; these have been easier to blend and are often more pigmented in one layer.
The Lustre finish is designed to have sheerer pigmentation, and it often has more sheer to medium coverage with a drier, dustier consistency that can be hard to apply with a dry brush. Lustre finish shades can suffer from fallout during application, too. They are the old school version of an eyeshadow "topper." I would recommend applying with a fingertip or applying with a dampened brush to get smoother, more even coverage and minimize fallout.
The Satin finish is few and far in-between, but it is softer and more yielding than the Matte finish but performs similarly. They tend to have very low sheen but are quite blendable with medium to opaque coverage. It can be easy to mix the finish up with the Velvet finish, which has more of a sparkle-over-matte effect but are more powdery than the true Matte finish.
The Frost finish is more firmly-pressed into the pan but doesn't have fallout, is often pigmented, and blends out well enough. They can sometimes be a little drier to the touch depending on how much shimmer is in the shade. The Veluxe Pearl finish is one of the creamier takes within the range, and newer shades released in the finish tend to have more moderate, silicone-like slip. I've found that Veluxe Pearl finish shades tend to have more semi-opaque pigmentation and are more consistent in performance than some of the other finishes.
One thing I've found with MAC eyeshadows is that they tend to last longer without primer than the average brand (eight hours). While some eyeshadow shades don't swatch well, they often apply better in practice--as in on the eyes!--than just swatched on the skin. They can be quite hit or miss, and they have inconsistencies between releases (see Carbon and its sordid review history!).
Browse all of our MAC Eyeshadow swatches.
Ingredients
Talc , Zinc Stearate , Octyldodecyl Stearoyl Stearate , Isostearyl Neopentanoate , Tocopheryl Acetate , Caprylyl Glycol , Hexylene Glycol , Phenoxyethanol , [+/- Silica , Mica , Titanium Dioxide (Ci 77891) , Iron Oxides (Ci 77491, Ci 77492, Ci 77499) , Bismuth Oxychloride (Ci 77163) , Blue 1 Lake (Ci 42090) , Carmine (Ci 75470) , Chromium Hydroxide Green (Ci 77289) , Chromium Oxide Greens (Ci 77288) , Ferric Ferrocyanide (Ci 77510) , Manganese Violet (Ci 77742) , Red 40 Lake (Ci 16035) , Ultramarines (Ci 77007) , Yellow 5 Lake (Ci 19140)] Rds Product Name: Eye Shadow (Veluxe Pearl) Division: Mc (Mac)Ingredients: Talc , Zinc Stearate , Nylon-12 , Dimethicone , Octyldodecyl Stearoyl Stearate , Isostearyl Neopentanoate , Glycine Soja (Soybean) Seed Extract , Hordeum Vulgare (Barley) ExtractExtrait D'Orge , Triticum Vulgare (Wheat) Germ Extract , Tocopheryl Acetate , Ascorbyl Palmitate , Squalane , Caprylyl Glycol , Hexylene Glycol , Ceramide 3 , Cholesterol , Silica , Triethoxycaprylylsilane , Linoleic Acid , Phenoxyethanol , [+/- Mica , Titanium Dioxide (Ci 77891) , Iron Oxides (Ci 77491, Ci 77492, Ci 77499) , Bismuth Oxychloride (Ci 77163) , Blue 1 Lake (Ci 42090) , Carmine (Ci 75470) , Chromium Hydroxide Green (Ci 77289) , Chromium Oxide Greens (Ci 77288) , Ferric Ferrocyanide (Ci 77510) , Manganese Violet (Ci 77742) , Ultramarines (Ci 77007) , Yellow 5 Lake (Ci 19140)] Rds Product Name: Eye Shadow (Mac) Division: Mc (Mac)Ingredients: Talc , Zinc Stearate , Octyldodecyl Stearoyl Stearate , Isostearyl Neopentanoate , Tocopheryl Acetate , Synthetic Fluorphlogopite , Calcium Aluminum Borosilicate , Calcium Sodium Borosilicate , Aluminum Calcium Sodium Silicate , Triethoxycaprylylsilane , Tin Oxide , Silica , Caprylyl Glycol , Hexylene Glycol , Phenoxyethanol , [+/- Mica , Titanium Dioxide (Ci 77891) , Bismuth Oxychloride (Ci 77163) , Iron Oxides (Ci 77491, Ci 77492, Ci 77499) , Blue 1 Lake (Ci 42090) , Bronze Powder (Ci 77400) , Carmine (Ci 75470) , Chromium Hydroxide Green (Ci 77289) , Chromium Oxide Greens (Ci 77288) , Copper Powder (Ci 77400) , Ferric Ammonium Ferrocyanide (Ci 77510) , Ferric Ferrocyanide (Ci 77510) , Manganese Violet (Ci 77742) , Red 40 Lake (Ci 16035) , Ultramarines (Ci 77007) , Yellow 5 Lake (Ci 19140)] Rds Product Name: Powder Blush Division: Mc (Mac)Ingredients: Talc , Zinc Stearate , Calcium Aluminum Borosilicate , Octyldodecyl Stearoyl Stearate , Aluminum Calcium Sodium Silicate , Synthetic Fluorphlogopite , Isostearyl Neopentanoate , Calcium Sodium Borosilicate , Silica , Tocopheryl Acetate , Triethoxycaprylylsilane , Tin Oxide , Titanium/Titanium Dioxide , Caprylyl Glycol , Hexylene Glycol , Phenoxyethanol , [+/- Mica , Titanium Dioxide (Ci 77891) , Iron Oxides (Ci 77491) , Iron Oxides (Ci 77492) , Iron Oxides (Ci 77499) , Bismuth Oxychloride (Ci 77163) , Blue 1 Lake (Ci 42090) , Bronze Powder (Ci 77400) , Carmine (Ci 75470) , Chromium Hydroxide Green (Ci 77289) , Chromium Oxide Greens (Ci 77288) , Copper Powder (Ci 77400) , Ferric Ammonium Ferrocyanide (Ci 77510) , Ferric Ferrocyanide (Ci 77510) , Manganese Violet (Ci 77742) , Red 6 (Ci 15850) , Red 28 (Ci 45410) , Red 6 Lake (Ci 15850) , Red 7 Lake (Ci 15850) , Red 28 Lake (Ci 45410) , Red 30 Lake (Ci 73360) , Red 40 Lake (Ci 16035) , Ultramarines (Ci 77007) , Yellow 5 Lake (Ci 19140) , Yellow 6 Lake (Ci 15985)]
Disclaimer: Ingredient lists are as available by the brand (or retailer) at the time of publishing. Please always check product packaging, if it exists, for the ingredient list applicable to the product you're purchasing, or the brand or retailer's website for the most up-to-date ingredient list.
Petit Lion
LELimited Edition. $17.00.
Finjan
Finjan is a medium, taupe-brown with subtle, warm undertones and a matte finish. The consistency was slightly drier, firmer, and stiffer in the pan, so it took a heavier handed approach to pick up product on a brush. The pigmentation was semi-opaque, buildable, and it did apply better on my lid in practice than it seemed from swatching it alone. It lasted nicely for eight hours on me before fading visibly.
FURTHER READING: Formula Overview for details on general performance and characteristics (like scent).
Top Dupes
- Sydney Grace Mom Ride (P, $5.25) is cooler (95% similar).
- Inglot J317 Eggplant (LE, $10.00) is more shimmery, darker (90% similar).
- Cle de Peau Golden Age #4 (LE, ) is more shimmery, darker (90% similar).
- Dior Toile de Jouy #5 (PiP, ) is darker (90% similar).
- ColourPop Rockin' Robin (LE, $4.50) is lighter, brighter (90% similar).
- NARS Sophia (DC, $25.00) is warmer (90% similar).
- NARS Sophia (P, $19.00) is darker (90% similar).
- Viseart Jasper (PiP, ) is lighter (90% similar).
- MAC Ooh La Café! (LE, $17.00) is cooler (90% similar).
- KVD Beauty Orion (LE, ) 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.
Ingredients
Talc , Zinc Stearate , Octyldodecyl Stearoyl Stearate , Isostearyl Neopentanoate , Tocopheryl Acetate , Caprylyl Glycol , Hexylene Glycol , Phenoxyethanol , [+/- Silica , Mica , Titanium Dioxide (Ci 77891) , Iron Oxides (Ci 77491, Ci 77492, Ci 77499) , Bismuth Oxychloride (Ci 77163) , Blue 1 Lake (Ci 42090) , Carmine (Ci 75470) , Chromium Hydroxide Green (Ci 77289) , Chromium Oxide Greens (Ci 77288) , Ferric Ferrocyanide (Ci 77510) , Manganese Violet (Ci 77742) , Red 40 Lake (Ci 16035) , Ultramarines (Ci 77007) , Yellow 5 Lake (Ci 19140)] Rds Product Name: Eye Shadow (Veluxe Pearl) Division: Mc (Mac)Ingredients: Talc , Zinc Stearate , Nylon-12 , Dimethicone , Octyldodecyl Stearoyl Stearate , Isostearyl Neopentanoate , Glycine Soja (Soybean) Seed Extract , Hordeum Vulgare (Barley) ExtractExtrait D'Orge , Triticum Vulgare (Wheat) Germ Extract , Tocopheryl Acetate , Ascorbyl Palmitate , Squalane , Caprylyl Glycol , Hexylene Glycol , Ceramide 3 , Cholesterol , Silica , Triethoxycaprylylsilane , Linoleic Acid , Phenoxyethanol , [+/- Mica , Titanium Dioxide (Ci 77891) , Iron Oxides (Ci 77491, Ci 77492, Ci 77499) , Bismuth Oxychloride (Ci 77163) , Blue 1 Lake (Ci 42090) , Carmine (Ci 75470) , Chromium Hydroxide Green (Ci 77289) , Chromium Oxide Greens (Ci 77288) , Ferric Ferrocyanide (Ci 77510) , Manganese Violet (Ci 77742) , Ultramarines (Ci 77007) , Yellow 5 Lake (Ci 19140)] Rds Product Name: Eye Shadow (Mac) Division: Mc (Mac)Ingredients: Talc , Zinc Stearate , Octyldodecyl Stearoyl Stearate , Isostearyl Neopentanoate , Tocopheryl Acetate , Synthetic Fluorphlogopite , Calcium Aluminum Borosilicate , Calcium Sodium Borosilicate , Aluminum Calcium Sodium Silicate , Triethoxycaprylylsilane , Tin Oxide , Silica , Caprylyl Glycol , Hexylene Glycol , Phenoxyethanol , [+/- Mica , Titanium Dioxide (Ci 77891) , Bismuth Oxychloride (Ci 77163) , Iron Oxides (Ci 77491, Ci 77492, Ci 77499) , Blue 1 Lake (Ci 42090) , Bronze Powder (Ci 77400) , Carmine (Ci 75470) , Chromium Hydroxide Green (Ci 77289) , Chromium Oxide Greens (Ci 77288) , Copper Powder (Ci 77400) , Ferric Ammonium Ferrocyanide (Ci 77510) , Ferric Ferrocyanide (Ci 77510) , Manganese Violet (Ci 77742) , Red 40 Lake (Ci 16035) , Ultramarines (Ci 77007) , Yellow 5 Lake (Ci 19140)] Rds Product Name: Powder Blush Division: Mc (Mac)Ingredients: Talc , Zinc Stearate , Calcium Aluminum Borosilicate , Octyldodecyl Stearoyl Stearate , Aluminum Calcium Sodium Silicate , Synthetic Fluorphlogopite , Isostearyl Neopentanoate , Calcium Sodium Borosilicate , Silica , Tocopheryl Acetate , Triethoxycaprylylsilane , Tin Oxide , Titanium/Titanium Dioxide , Caprylyl Glycol , Hexylene Glycol , Phenoxyethanol , [+/- Mica , Titanium Dioxide (Ci 77891) , Iron Oxides (Ci 77491) , Iron Oxides (Ci 77492) , Iron Oxides (Ci 77499) , Bismuth Oxychloride (Ci 77163) , Blue 1 Lake (Ci 42090) , Bronze Powder (Ci 77400) , Carmine (Ci 75470) , Chromium Hydroxide Green (Ci 77289) , Chromium Oxide Greens (Ci 77288) , Copper Powder (Ci 77400) , Ferric Ammonium Ferrocyanide (Ci 77510) , Ferric Ferrocyanide (Ci 77510) , Manganese Violet (Ci 77742) , Red 6 (Ci 15850) , Red 28 (Ci 45410) , Red 6 Lake (Ci 15850) , Red 7 Lake (Ci 15850) , Red 28 Lake (Ci 45410) , Red 30 Lake (Ci 73360) , Red 40 Lake (Ci 16035) , Ultramarines (Ci 77007) , Yellow 5 Lake (Ci 19140) , Yellow 6 Lake (Ci 15985)]
Disclaimer: Ingredient lists are as available by the brand (or retailer) at the time of publishing. Please always check product packaging, if it exists, for the ingredient list applicable to the product you're purchasing, or the brand or retailer's website for the most up-to-date ingredient list.
Finjan
LELimited Edition. $17.00.
Texture
Texture is a light brown with warm, orange undertones and a matte finish. It had nearly opaque pigmentation with a soft, blendable texture, though it didn’t feel quite as silky or as finely-milled as the permanent version. It stayed on 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
- Makeup by Mario Ethereal Eyes #9 (LE, ) is less shimmery, darker (95% similar).
- Too Faced For the Graham (LE, $16.00) is less shimmery, warmer (95% similar).
- Anastasia RTW (P, $12.00) is lighter (95% similar).
- Sephora Clay (LE, ) is brighter (90% similar).
- Charlotte Tilbury Happy Glow (Smoke) (LE, ) is less shimmery, darker, warmer (90% similar).
- Natasha Denona Pure (269CP) (LE, ) is less shimmery, darker, cooler (90% similar).
- Anastasia Ginger (LE, $12.00) is less shimmery, darker (85% similar).
- Make Up For Ever S616 Chocolate (DC, $21.00) is cooler (90% similar).
- MAC Terre (Right) (LE, ) is lighter (90% similar).
- Too Faced Truffled (PiP, $16.00) is less 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.
Ingredients
Talc , Zinc Stearate , Octyldodecyl Stearoyl Stearate , Isostearyl Neopentanoate , Tocopheryl Acetate , Caprylyl Glycol , Hexylene Glycol , Phenoxyethanol , [+/- Silica , Mica , Titanium Dioxide (Ci 77891) , Iron Oxides (Ci 77491, Ci 77492, Ci 77499) , Bismuth Oxychloride (Ci 77163) , Blue 1 Lake (Ci 42090) , Carmine (Ci 75470) , Chromium Hydroxide Green (Ci 77289) , Chromium Oxide Greens (Ci 77288) , Ferric Ferrocyanide (Ci 77510) , Manganese Violet (Ci 77742) , Red 40 Lake (Ci 16035) , Ultramarines (Ci 77007) , Yellow 5 Lake (Ci 19140)] Rds Product Name: Eye Shadow (Veluxe Pearl) Division: Mc (Mac)Ingredients: Talc , Zinc Stearate , Nylon-12 , Dimethicone , Octyldodecyl Stearoyl Stearate , Isostearyl Neopentanoate , Glycine Soja (Soybean) Seed Extract , Hordeum Vulgare (Barley) ExtractExtrait D'Orge , Triticum Vulgare (Wheat) Germ Extract , Tocopheryl Acetate , Ascorbyl Palmitate , Squalane , Caprylyl Glycol , Hexylene Glycol , Ceramide 3 , Cholesterol , Silica , Triethoxycaprylylsilane , Linoleic Acid , Phenoxyethanol , [+/- Mica , Titanium Dioxide (Ci 77891) , Iron Oxides (Ci 77491, Ci 77492, Ci 77499) , Bismuth Oxychloride (Ci 77163) , Blue 1 Lake (Ci 42090) , Carmine (Ci 75470) , Chromium Hydroxide Green (Ci 77289) , Chromium Oxide Greens (Ci 77288) , Ferric Ferrocyanide (Ci 77510) , Manganese Violet (Ci 77742) , Ultramarines (Ci 77007) , Yellow 5 Lake (Ci 19140)] Rds Product Name: Eye Shadow (Mac) Division: Mc (Mac)Ingredients: Talc , Zinc Stearate , Octyldodecyl Stearoyl Stearate , Isostearyl Neopentanoate , Tocopheryl Acetate , Synthetic Fluorphlogopite , Calcium Aluminum Borosilicate , Calcium Sodium Borosilicate , Aluminum Calcium Sodium Silicate , Triethoxycaprylylsilane , Tin Oxide , Silica , Caprylyl Glycol , Hexylene Glycol , Phenoxyethanol , [+/- Mica , Titanium Dioxide (Ci 77891) , Bismuth Oxychloride (Ci 77163) , Iron Oxides (Ci 77491, Ci 77492, Ci 77499) , Blue 1 Lake (Ci 42090) , Bronze Powder (Ci 77400) , Carmine (Ci 75470) , Chromium Hydroxide Green (Ci 77289) , Chromium Oxide Greens (Ci 77288) , Copper Powder (Ci 77400) , Ferric Ammonium Ferrocyanide (Ci 77510) , Ferric Ferrocyanide (Ci 77510) , Manganese Violet (Ci 77742) , Red 40 Lake (Ci 16035) , Ultramarines (Ci 77007) , Yellow 5 Lake (Ci 19140)] Rds Product Name: Powder Blush Division: Mc (Mac)Ingredients: Talc , Zinc Stearate , Calcium Aluminum Borosilicate , Octyldodecyl Stearoyl Stearate , Aluminum Calcium Sodium Silicate , Synthetic Fluorphlogopite , Isostearyl Neopentanoate , Calcium Sodium Borosilicate , Silica , Tocopheryl Acetate , Triethoxycaprylylsilane , Tin Oxide , Titanium/Titanium Dioxide , Caprylyl Glycol , Hexylene Glycol , Phenoxyethanol , [+/- Mica , Titanium Dioxide (Ci 77891) , Iron Oxides (Ci 77491) , Iron Oxides (Ci 77492) , Iron Oxides (Ci 77499) , Bismuth Oxychloride (Ci 77163) , Blue 1 Lake (Ci 42090) , Bronze Powder (Ci 77400) , Carmine (Ci 75470) , Chromium Hydroxide Green (Ci 77289) , Chromium Oxide Greens (Ci 77288) , Copper Powder (Ci 77400) , Ferric Ammonium Ferrocyanide (Ci 77510) , Ferric Ferrocyanide (Ci 77510) , Manganese Violet (Ci 77742) , Red 6 (Ci 15850) , Red 28 (Ci 45410) , Red 6 Lake (Ci 15850) , Red 7 Lake (Ci 15850) , Red 28 Lake (Ci 45410) , Red 30 Lake (Ci 73360) , Red 40 Lake (Ci 16035) , Ultramarines (Ci 77007) , Yellow 5 Lake (Ci 19140) , Yellow 6 Lake (Ci 15985)]
Disclaimer: Ingredient lists are as available by the brand (or retailer) at the time of publishing. Please always check product packaging, if it exists, for the ingredient list applicable to the product you're purchasing, or the brand or retailer's website for the most up-to-date ingredient list.
Look Using this Product
Texture
PPermanent. $17.00.
Les Portes Bleus
Les Portes Bleus is a bright, medium blue with cool undertones and a matte finish. It had rich pigmentation with a soft, blendable consistency that wasn’t too powdery nor too firmly pressed in the pan. This shade wore well on my skin for eight hours before showing signs of fading.
FURTHER READING: Formula Overview for details on general performance and characteristics (like scent).
Top Dupes
- Dominique Cosmetics Evil Eye (LE, ) is darker (95% similar).
- Anastasia C2 (Norvina Vol. 2) (LE, $12.00) is more shimmery, warmer (95% similar).
- Terra Moons Neptune's Waves (P, $6.00) is darker (95% similar).
- Glaminatrix Coast (P, $7.30) is lighter (95% similar).
- Urban Decay Superstar (LE, $19.00) is more shimmery (95% similar).
- Anastasia B5 (Norvina Vol. 2) (LE, $12.00) is brighter (90% similar).
- Sydney Grace Oasis (P, $5.25) is lighter, cooler (90% similar).
- KVD Beauty Synth (LE, ) is darker (90% similar).
- elf Oasis (P, $5.00) is lighter, cooler (90% similar).
- Natasha Denona Laguna (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.
Ingredients
Talc , Zinc Stearate , Octyldodecyl Stearoyl Stearate , Isostearyl Neopentanoate , Tocopheryl Acetate , Caprylyl Glycol , Hexylene Glycol , Phenoxyethanol , [+/- Silica , Mica , Titanium Dioxide (Ci 77891) , Iron Oxides (Ci 77491, Ci 77492, Ci 77499) , Bismuth Oxychloride (Ci 77163) , Blue 1 Lake (Ci 42090) , Carmine (Ci 75470) , Chromium Hydroxide Green (Ci 77289) , Chromium Oxide Greens (Ci 77288) , Ferric Ferrocyanide (Ci 77510) , Manganese Violet (Ci 77742) , Red 40 Lake (Ci 16035) , Ultramarines (Ci 77007) , Yellow 5 Lake (Ci 19140)] Rds Product Name: Eye Shadow (Veluxe Pearl) Division: Mc (Mac)Ingredients: Talc , Zinc Stearate , Nylon-12 , Dimethicone , Octyldodecyl Stearoyl Stearate , Isostearyl Neopentanoate , Glycine Soja (Soybean) Seed Extract , Hordeum Vulgare (Barley) ExtractExtrait D'Orge , Triticum Vulgare (Wheat) Germ Extract , Tocopheryl Acetate , Ascorbyl Palmitate , Squalane , Caprylyl Glycol , Hexylene Glycol , Ceramide 3 , Cholesterol , Silica , Triethoxycaprylylsilane , Linoleic Acid , Phenoxyethanol , [+/- Mica , Titanium Dioxide (Ci 77891) , Iron Oxides (Ci 77491, Ci 77492, Ci 77499) , Bismuth Oxychloride (Ci 77163) , Blue 1 Lake (Ci 42090) , Carmine (Ci 75470) , Chromium Hydroxide Green (Ci 77289) , Chromium Oxide Greens (Ci 77288) , Ferric Ferrocyanide (Ci 77510) , Manganese Violet (Ci 77742) , Ultramarines (Ci 77007) , Yellow 5 Lake (Ci 19140)] Rds Product Name: Eye Shadow (Mac) Division: Mc (Mac)Ingredients: Talc , Zinc Stearate , Octyldodecyl Stearoyl Stearate , Isostearyl Neopentanoate , Tocopheryl Acetate , Synthetic Fluorphlogopite , Calcium Aluminum Borosilicate , Calcium Sodium Borosilicate , Aluminum Calcium Sodium Silicate , Triethoxycaprylylsilane , Tin Oxide , Silica , Caprylyl Glycol , Hexylene Glycol , Phenoxyethanol , [+/- Mica , Titanium Dioxide (Ci 77891) , Bismuth Oxychloride (Ci 77163) , Iron Oxides (Ci 77491, Ci 77492, Ci 77499) , Blue 1 Lake (Ci 42090) , Bronze Powder (Ci 77400) , Carmine (Ci 75470) , Chromium Hydroxide Green (Ci 77289) , Chromium Oxide Greens (Ci 77288) , Copper Powder (Ci 77400) , Ferric Ammonium Ferrocyanide (Ci 77510) , Ferric Ferrocyanide (Ci 77510) , Manganese Violet (Ci 77742) , Red 40 Lake (Ci 16035) , Ultramarines (Ci 77007) , Yellow 5 Lake (Ci 19140)] Rds Product Name: Powder Blush Division: Mc (Mac)Ingredients: Talc , Zinc Stearate , Calcium Aluminum Borosilicate , Octyldodecyl Stearoyl Stearate , Aluminum Calcium Sodium Silicate , Synthetic Fluorphlogopite , Isostearyl Neopentanoate , Calcium Sodium Borosilicate , Silica , Tocopheryl Acetate , Triethoxycaprylylsilane , Tin Oxide , Titanium/Titanium Dioxide , Caprylyl Glycol , Hexylene Glycol , Phenoxyethanol , [+/- Mica , Titanium Dioxide (Ci 77891) , Iron Oxides (Ci 77491) , Iron Oxides (Ci 77492) , Iron Oxides (Ci 77499) , Bismuth Oxychloride (Ci 77163) , Blue 1 Lake (Ci 42090) , Bronze Powder (Ci 77400) , Carmine (Ci 75470) , Chromium Hydroxide Green (Ci 77289) , Chromium Oxide Greens (Ci 77288) , Copper Powder (Ci 77400) , Ferric Ammonium Ferrocyanide (Ci 77510) , Ferric Ferrocyanide (Ci 77510) , Manganese Violet (Ci 77742) , Red 6 (Ci 15850) , Red 28 (Ci 45410) , Red 6 Lake (Ci 15850) , Red 7 Lake (Ci 15850) , Red 28 Lake (Ci 45410) , Red 30 Lake (Ci 73360) , Red 40 Lake (Ci 16035) , Ultramarines (Ci 77007) , Yellow 5 Lake (Ci 19140) , Yellow 6 Lake (Ci 15985)]
Disclaimer: Ingredient lists are as available by the brand (or retailer) at the time of publishing. Please always check product packaging, if it exists, for the ingredient list applicable to the product you're purchasing, or the brand or retailer's website for the most up-to-date ingredient list.
Les Portes Bleus
LELimited Edition. $17.00.
Gabriella
Gabriella is a brighter, pinky red with subtle, cool undertones and a matte finish. The eyeshadow had a stiffer, drier, and thinner texture that was difficult to work with, as it adhered strongly to my skin, looked patchy, and didn’t want to diffuse along the edges. It is technically a blush, and it was exceedingly challenging to apply it in an even, blended fashion. It lasted for eight hours on me before fading visibly.
Top Dupes
- Terra Moons Stellar Wind (P, $6.00) is more shimmery, darker, cooler (95% similar).
- MAC Mu Mu Bloom (LE, $17.00) is more shimmery (95% similar).
- Makeup Geek Unleashed (P, $9.00) is brighter (95% similar).
- Huda Beauty Ruby #9 (LE, ) is lighter (95% similar).
- Coloured Raine Daydream (PiP, ) is cooler (90% similar).
- MAC Bird's Eye View (LE, $17.00) is more shimmery (90% similar).
- ColourPop Seas the Day (P, $4.50) is more shimmery, darker (90% similar).
- ColourPop For Shore (P, $4.50) is brighter, warmer (90% similar).
- ColourPop All Night (LE, $4.50) is cooler (90% similar).
- NARS Domination (P, $19.00) is more shimmery (90% similar).
Ingredients
Talc , Zinc Stearate , Octyldodecyl Stearoyl Stearate , Isostearyl Neopentanoate , Tocopheryl Acetate , Caprylyl Glycol , Hexylene Glycol , Phenoxyethanol , [+/- Silica , Mica , Titanium Dioxide (Ci 77891) , Iron Oxides (Ci 77491, Ci 77492, Ci 77499) , Bismuth Oxychloride (Ci 77163) , Blue 1 Lake (Ci 42090) , Carmine (Ci 75470) , Chromium Hydroxide Green (Ci 77289) , Chromium Oxide Greens (Ci 77288) , Ferric Ferrocyanide (Ci 77510) , Manganese Violet (Ci 77742) , Red 40 Lake (Ci 16035) , Ultramarines (Ci 77007) , Yellow 5 Lake (Ci 19140)] Rds Product Name: Eye Shadow (Veluxe Pearl) Division: Mc (Mac)Ingredients: Talc , Zinc Stearate , Nylon-12 , Dimethicone , Octyldodecyl Stearoyl Stearate , Isostearyl Neopentanoate , Glycine Soja (Soybean) Seed Extract , Hordeum Vulgare (Barley) ExtractExtrait D'Orge , Triticum Vulgare (Wheat) Germ Extract , Tocopheryl Acetate , Ascorbyl Palmitate , Squalane , Caprylyl Glycol , Hexylene Glycol , Ceramide 3 , Cholesterol , Silica , Triethoxycaprylylsilane , Linoleic Acid , Phenoxyethanol , [+/- Mica , Titanium Dioxide (Ci 77891) , Iron Oxides (Ci 77491, Ci 77492, Ci 77499) , Bismuth Oxychloride (Ci 77163) , Blue 1 Lake (Ci 42090) , Carmine (Ci 75470) , Chromium Hydroxide Green (Ci 77289) , Chromium Oxide Greens (Ci 77288) , Ferric Ferrocyanide (Ci 77510) , Manganese Violet (Ci 77742) , Ultramarines (Ci 77007) , Yellow 5 Lake (Ci 19140)] Rds Product Name: Eye Shadow (Mac) Division: Mc (Mac)Ingredients: Talc , Zinc Stearate , Octyldodecyl Stearoyl Stearate , Isostearyl Neopentanoate , Tocopheryl Acetate , Synthetic Fluorphlogopite , Calcium Aluminum Borosilicate , Calcium Sodium Borosilicate , Aluminum Calcium Sodium Silicate , Triethoxycaprylylsilane , Tin Oxide , Silica , Caprylyl Glycol , Hexylene Glycol , Phenoxyethanol , [+/- Mica , Titanium Dioxide (Ci 77891) , Bismuth Oxychloride (Ci 77163) , Iron Oxides (Ci 77491, Ci 77492, Ci 77499) , Blue 1 Lake (Ci 42090) , Bronze Powder (Ci 77400) , Carmine (Ci 75470) , Chromium Hydroxide Green (Ci 77289) , Chromium Oxide Greens (Ci 77288) , Copper Powder (Ci 77400) , Ferric Ammonium Ferrocyanide (Ci 77510) , Ferric Ferrocyanide (Ci 77510) , Manganese Violet (Ci 77742) , Red 40 Lake (Ci 16035) , Ultramarines (Ci 77007) , Yellow 5 Lake (Ci 19140)] Rds Product Name: Powder Blush Division: Mc (Mac)Ingredients: Talc , Zinc Stearate , Calcium Aluminum Borosilicate , Octyldodecyl Stearoyl Stearate , Aluminum Calcium Sodium Silicate , Synthetic Fluorphlogopite , Isostearyl Neopentanoate , Calcium Sodium Borosilicate , Silica , Tocopheryl Acetate , Triethoxycaprylylsilane , Tin Oxide , Titanium/Titanium Dioxide , Caprylyl Glycol , Hexylene Glycol , Phenoxyethanol , [+/- Mica , Titanium Dioxide (Ci 77891) , Iron Oxides (Ci 77491) , Iron Oxides (Ci 77492) , Iron Oxides (Ci 77499) , Bismuth Oxychloride (Ci 77163) , Blue 1 Lake (Ci 42090) , Bronze Powder (Ci 77400) , Carmine (Ci 75470) , Chromium Hydroxide Green (Ci 77289) , Chromium Oxide Greens (Ci 77288) , Copper Powder (Ci 77400) , Ferric Ammonium Ferrocyanide (Ci 77510) , Ferric Ferrocyanide (Ci 77510) , Manganese Violet (Ci 77742) , Red 6 (Ci 15850) , Red 28 (Ci 45410) , Red 6 Lake (Ci 15850) , Red 7 Lake (Ci 15850) , Red 28 Lake (Ci 45410) , Red 30 Lake (Ci 73360) , Red 40 Lake (Ci 16035) , Ultramarines (Ci 77007) , Yellow 5 Lake (Ci 19140) , Yellow 6 Lake (Ci 15985)]
Disclaimer: Ingredient lists are as available by the brand (or retailer) at the time of publishing. Please always check product packaging, if it exists, for the ingredient list applicable to the product you're purchasing, or the brand or retailer's website for the most up-to-date ingredient list.
Gabriella
LELimited Edition.
Carbon
Carbon is a medium black with neutral undertones and a matte finish. It was firmly pressed in the pan with a drier, thinner consistency that made it difficult to work with. It had sheer coverage that was somewhat buildable, but it wasn’t easy to work with overall. The color stayed on well for seven and a half hours before fading noticeably on me.
FURTHER READING: Formula Overview for details on general performance and characteristics (like scent).
Top Dupes
- MAC Bleuluxe #5 (PiP, ) (100% similar).
- Make Up For Ever #04 (DC, $20.00) (100% similar).
- KVD Beauty Killing Moon (LE, ) (100% similar).
- Tarte On a Good Notre Dame (LE, ) is lighter (95% similar).
- NARS Shade VI (LE, $25.00) is lighter (95% similar).
- Huda Beauty Smokey #1 (PiP, ) is darker, warmer (95% similar).
- Milani Naughty-Night (PiP, $5.99) is darker (95% similar).
- Tarte Ink (LE, ) is more shimmery, darker (95% similar).
- Too Faced Panther (LE, $16.00) is lighter (95% similar).
- KVD Beauty Sabbath (LE, ) 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.
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.
Handwritten
Handwritten is a muted, medium-dark brown with subtle, warm undertones and a matte finish. It had medium pigmentation in a single layer, which was buildable to mostly opaque coverage with two to three layers. The consistency was soft, blendable, but it was somewhat powdery and had a little bit of fallout during application. This shade wore 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
- Viseart Dolce (LE, ) is darker (95% similar).
- Tarte Stylin (PiP, ) is lighter (95% similar).
- Huda Beauty Coco (LE, ) is lighter (90% similar).
- ColourPop In Bold (LE, $4.50) is more shimmery, brighter (90% similar).
- Too Faced Undercover (LE, $16.00) is darker (90% similar).
- MAC Trog (LE, $17.00) is darker, cooler (90% similar).
- LORAC Spell Breaker (LE, $19.00) is cooler (90% similar).
- MAC Embark (P, $17.00) is darker, cooler (80% similar).
- MAC Natural Brown (LE, $17.00) is lighter, cooler (90% similar).
- Smashbox Vintage (PiP, ) 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.
Ingredients
Talc , Zinc Stearate , Octyldodecyl Stearoyl Stearate , Isostearyl Neopentanoate , Tocopheryl Acetate , Caprylyl Glycol , Hexylene Glycol , Phenoxyethanol , [+/- Silica , Mica , Titanium Dioxide (Ci 77891) , Iron Oxides (Ci 77491, Ci 77492, Ci 77499) , Bismuth Oxychloride (Ci 77163) , Blue 1 Lake (Ci 42090) , Carmine (Ci 75470) , Chromium Hydroxide Green (Ci 77289) , Chromium Oxide Greens (Ci 77288) , Ferric Ferrocyanide (Ci 77510) , Manganese Violet (Ci 77742) , Red 40 Lake (Ci 16035) , Ultramarines (Ci 77007) , Yellow 5 Lake (Ci 19140)] Rds Product Name: Eye Shadow (Veluxe Pearl) Division: Mc (Mac)Ingredients: Talc , Zinc Stearate , Nylon-12 , Dimethicone , Octyldodecyl Stearoyl Stearate , Isostearyl Neopentanoate , Glycine Soja (Soybean) Seed Extract , Hordeum Vulgare (Barley) ExtractExtrait D'Orge , Triticum Vulgare (Wheat) Germ Extract , Tocopheryl Acetate , Ascorbyl Palmitate , Squalane , Caprylyl Glycol , Hexylene Glycol , Ceramide 3 , Cholesterol , Silica , Triethoxycaprylylsilane , Linoleic Acid , Phenoxyethanol , [+/- Mica , Titanium Dioxide (Ci 77891) , Iron Oxides (Ci 77491, Ci 77492, Ci 77499) , Bismuth Oxychloride (Ci 77163) , Blue 1 Lake (Ci 42090) , Carmine (Ci 75470) , Chromium Hydroxide Green (Ci 77289) , Chromium Oxide Greens (Ci 77288) , Ferric Ferrocyanide (Ci 77510) , Manganese Violet (Ci 77742) , Ultramarines (Ci 77007) , Yellow 5 Lake (Ci 19140)] Rds Product Name: Eye Shadow (Mac) Division: Mc (Mac)Ingredients: Talc , Zinc Stearate , Octyldodecyl Stearoyl Stearate , Isostearyl Neopentanoate , Tocopheryl Acetate , Synthetic Fluorphlogopite , Calcium Aluminum Borosilicate , Calcium Sodium Borosilicate , Aluminum Calcium Sodium Silicate , Triethoxycaprylylsilane , Tin Oxide , Silica , Caprylyl Glycol , Hexylene Glycol , Phenoxyethanol , [+/- Mica , Titanium Dioxide (Ci 77891) , Bismuth Oxychloride (Ci 77163) , Iron Oxides (Ci 77491, Ci 77492, Ci 77499) , Blue 1 Lake (Ci 42090) , Bronze Powder (Ci 77400) , Carmine (Ci 75470) , Chromium Hydroxide Green (Ci 77289) , Chromium Oxide Greens (Ci 77288) , Copper Powder (Ci 77400) , Ferric Ammonium Ferrocyanide (Ci 77510) , Ferric Ferrocyanide (Ci 77510) , Manganese Violet (Ci 77742) , Red 40 Lake (Ci 16035) , Ultramarines (Ci 77007) , Yellow 5 Lake (Ci 19140)] Rds Product Name: Powder Blush Division: Mc (Mac)Ingredients: Talc , Zinc Stearate , Calcium Aluminum Borosilicate , Octyldodecyl Stearoyl Stearate , Aluminum Calcium Sodium Silicate , Synthetic Fluorphlogopite , Isostearyl Neopentanoate , Calcium Sodium Borosilicate , Silica , Tocopheryl Acetate , Triethoxycaprylylsilane , Tin Oxide , Titanium/Titanium Dioxide , Caprylyl Glycol , Hexylene Glycol , Phenoxyethanol , [+/- Mica , Titanium Dioxide (Ci 77891) , Iron Oxides (Ci 77491) , Iron Oxides (Ci 77492) , Iron Oxides (Ci 77499) , Bismuth Oxychloride (Ci 77163) , Blue 1 Lake (Ci 42090) , Bronze Powder (Ci 77400) , Carmine (Ci 75470) , Chromium Hydroxide Green (Ci 77289) , Chromium Oxide Greens (Ci 77288) , Copper Powder (Ci 77400) , Ferric Ammonium Ferrocyanide (Ci 77510) , Ferric Ferrocyanide (Ci 77510) , Manganese Violet (Ci 77742) , Red 6 (Ci 15850) , Red 28 (Ci 45410) , Red 6 Lake (Ci 15850) , Red 7 Lake (Ci 15850) , Red 28 Lake (Ci 45410) , Red 30 Lake (Ci 73360) , Red 40 Lake (Ci 16035) , Ultramarines (Ci 77007) , Yellow 5 Lake (Ci 19140) , Yellow 6 Lake (Ci 15985)]
Disclaimer: Ingredient lists are as available by the brand (or retailer) at the time of publishing. Please always check product packaging, if it exists, for the ingredient list applicable to the product you're purchasing, or the brand or retailer's website for the most up-to-date ingredient list.
Handwritten
DCDiscontinued. $17.00.
Carnal Charm
Carnal Charm is a bright, coral-red with warm undertones and a matte finish. It had a drier, slightly powdery consistency, though it blended out decently on bare skin. The pigmentation was semi-opaque and buildable, and it lasted for eight hours on me before fading noticeably.
FURTHER READING: Formula Overview for details on general performance and characteristics (like scent).
Top Dupes
- ColourPop Making Moves (P, $4.50) is lighter (95% similar).
- KVD Beauty Destroyer (LE, ) is cooler (95% similar).
- Anastasia E4 (Norvina Vol. 1) (LE, ) is lighter, warmer (95% similar).
- MAC Strike While Haute (LE, $17.00) is lighter (95% similar).
- ColourPop Girls Rock (LE, $4.50) is lighter, warmer (95% similar).
- ColourPop Sunday Soiree (LE, $4.50) is cooler (95% similar).
- ColourPop Be Cool (LE, $4.50) is more shimmery (95% similar).
- ColourPop Remote (PiP, $4.50) is warmer (95% similar).
- ColourPop Summer Fling (PiP, $4.50) is lighter (95% similar).
- ColourPop Hoops (PiP, $4.50) is warmer (90% similar).
Formula Overview
$17.00/0.05 oz. - $340.00 Per Ounce
The formula is supposed to be a "highly pigmented powder" that goes on "evenly and blends well." MAC eyeshadows run the gamut from total failures to long-time, cult-favorite staples. In general, the permanent line has been more consistent in performance--and higher performance at that--compared to limited edition launches, but it can really depend.
The Matte finish tends to have a firmer press and a bit of thinness compared to other matte formulas on the market, so MAC matte eyeshadows tend to build up better and have better wear-time without fallout as they're not powdery at all. Some of the newer matte finish shades have had a more velvety quality to them that gives them a softer feel but aren't powdery; these have been easier to blend and are often more pigmented in one layer.
The Lustre finish is designed to have sheerer pigmentation, and it often has more sheer to medium coverage with a drier, dustier consistency that can be hard to apply with a dry brush. Lustre finish shades can suffer from fallout during application, too. They are the old school version of an eyeshadow "topper." I would recommend applying with a fingertip or applying with a dampened brush to get smoother, more even coverage and minimize fallout.
The Satin finish is few and far in-between, but it is softer and more yielding than the Matte finish but performs similarly. They tend to have very low sheen but are quite blendable with medium to opaque coverage. It can be easy to mix the finish up with the Velvet finish, which has more of a sparkle-over-matte effect but are more powdery than the true Matte finish.
The Frost finish is more firmly-pressed into the pan but doesn't have fallout, is often pigmented, and blends out well enough. They can sometimes be a little drier to the touch depending on how much shimmer is in the shade. The Veluxe Pearl finish is one of the creamier takes within the range, and newer shades released in the finish tend to have more moderate, silicone-like slip. I've found that Veluxe Pearl finish shades tend to have more semi-opaque pigmentation and are more consistent in performance than some of the other finishes.
One thing I've found with MAC eyeshadows is that they tend to last longer without primer than the average brand (eight hours). While some eyeshadow shades don't swatch well, they often apply better in practice--as in on the eyes!--than just swatched on the skin. They can be quite hit or miss, and they have inconsistencies between releases (see Carbon and its sordid review history!).
Browse all of our MAC Eyeshadow swatches.
Ingredients
Talc , Zinc Stearate , Octyldodecyl Stearoyl Stearate , Isostearyl Neopentanoate , Tocopheryl Acetate , Caprylyl Glycol , Hexylene Glycol , Phenoxyethanol , [+/- Silica , Mica , Titanium Dioxide (Ci 77891) , Iron Oxides (Ci 77491, Ci 77492, Ci 77499) , Bismuth Oxychloride (Ci 77163) , Blue 1 Lake (Ci 42090) , Carmine (Ci 75470) , Chromium Hydroxide Green (Ci 77289) , Chromium Oxide Greens (Ci 77288) , Ferric Ferrocyanide (Ci 77510) , Manganese Violet (Ci 77742) , Red 40 Lake (Ci 16035) , Ultramarines (Ci 77007) , Yellow 5 Lake (Ci 19140)] Rds Product Name: Eye Shadow (Veluxe Pearl) Division: Mc (Mac)Ingredients: Talc , Zinc Stearate , Nylon-12 , Dimethicone , Octyldodecyl Stearoyl Stearate , Isostearyl Neopentanoate , Glycine Soja (Soybean) Seed Extract , Hordeum Vulgare (Barley) ExtractExtrait D'Orge , Triticum Vulgare (Wheat) Germ Extract , Tocopheryl Acetate , Ascorbyl Palmitate , Squalane , Caprylyl Glycol , Hexylene Glycol , Ceramide 3 , Cholesterol , Silica , Triethoxycaprylylsilane , Linoleic Acid , Phenoxyethanol , [+/- Mica , Titanium Dioxide (Ci 77891) , Iron Oxides (Ci 77491, Ci 77492, Ci 77499) , Bismuth Oxychloride (Ci 77163) , Blue 1 Lake (Ci 42090) , Carmine (Ci 75470) , Chromium Hydroxide Green (Ci 77289) , Chromium Oxide Greens (Ci 77288) , Ferric Ferrocyanide (Ci 77510) , Manganese Violet (Ci 77742) , Ultramarines (Ci 77007) , Yellow 5 Lake (Ci 19140)] Rds Product Name: Eye Shadow (Mac) Division: Mc (Mac)Ingredients: Talc , Zinc Stearate , Octyldodecyl Stearoyl Stearate , Isostearyl Neopentanoate , Tocopheryl Acetate , Synthetic Fluorphlogopite , Calcium Aluminum Borosilicate , Calcium Sodium Borosilicate , Aluminum Calcium Sodium Silicate , Triethoxycaprylylsilane , Tin Oxide , Silica , Caprylyl Glycol , Hexylene Glycol , Phenoxyethanol , [+/- Mica , Titanium Dioxide (Ci 77891) , Bismuth Oxychloride (Ci 77163) , Iron Oxides (Ci 77491, Ci 77492, Ci 77499) , Blue 1 Lake (Ci 42090) , Bronze Powder (Ci 77400) , Carmine (Ci 75470) , Chromium Hydroxide Green (Ci 77289) , Chromium Oxide Greens (Ci 77288) , Copper Powder (Ci 77400) , Ferric Ammonium Ferrocyanide (Ci 77510) , Ferric Ferrocyanide (Ci 77510) , Manganese Violet (Ci 77742) , Red 40 Lake (Ci 16035) , Ultramarines (Ci 77007) , Yellow 5 Lake (Ci 19140)] Rds Product Name: Powder Blush Division: Mc (Mac)Ingredients: Talc , Zinc Stearate , Calcium Aluminum Borosilicate , Octyldodecyl Stearoyl Stearate , Aluminum Calcium Sodium Silicate , Synthetic Fluorphlogopite , Isostearyl Neopentanoate , Calcium Sodium Borosilicate , Silica , Tocopheryl Acetate , Triethoxycaprylylsilane , Tin Oxide , Titanium/Titanium Dioxide , Caprylyl Glycol , Hexylene Glycol , Phenoxyethanol , [+/- Mica , Titanium Dioxide (Ci 77891) , Iron Oxides (Ci 77491) , Iron Oxides (Ci 77492) , Iron Oxides (Ci 77499) , Bismuth Oxychloride (Ci 77163) , Blue 1 Lake (Ci 42090) , Bronze Powder (Ci 77400) , Carmine (Ci 75470) , Chromium Hydroxide Green (Ci 77289) , Chromium Oxide Greens (Ci 77288) , Copper Powder (Ci 77400) , Ferric Ammonium Ferrocyanide (Ci 77510) , Ferric Ferrocyanide (Ci 77510) , Manganese Violet (Ci 77742) , Red 6 (Ci 15850) , Red 28 (Ci 45410) , Red 6 Lake (Ci 15850) , Red 7 Lake (Ci 15850) , Red 28 Lake (Ci 45410) , Red 30 Lake (Ci 73360) , Red 40 Lake (Ci 16035) , Ultramarines (Ci 77007) , Yellow 5 Lake (Ci 19140) , Yellow 6 Lake (Ci 15985)]
Disclaimer: Ingredient lists are as available by the brand (or retailer) at the time of publishing. Please always check product packaging, if it exists, for the ingredient list applicable to the product you're purchasing, or the brand or retailer's website for the most up-to-date ingredient list.
Carnal Charm
LELimited Edition. $17.00.
Matmata
Matmata is a medium-dark, cobalt blue with strong, cool undertones and a matte finish. It had good color coverage in a single layer, but it was incredibly powdery and prone to sheering out with uneven adhesion, even when applied over primer. There was moderate fallout during application from attempting to build up the color, too. It stayed on decently for seven and a half hours before I noticed fading.
FURTHER READING: Formula Overview for details on general performance and characteristics (like scent).
Top Dupes
- Anastasia C3 (Norvina Vol. 2) (LE, ) is darker (95% similar).
- Huda Beauty Sapphire #8 (LE, ) is more shimmery (95% similar).
- Give Me Glow Club Sapphire (P, $7.00) is lighter (95% similar).
- About Face No Queen Blues (P, $16.00) is darker (95% similar).
- Coloured Raine Neo Blue (PiP, $6.99) is lighter (95% similar).
- By Beauty Bay Lavish (LE, ) is darker (95% similar).
- Sephora Chris (LE, ) is lighter (95% similar).
- Urban Decay Chaos (P, $26.00) is lighter (95% similar).
- Marc Jacobs Beauty Power Platforms (PiP, ) is lighter (95% similar).
- Make Up For Ever M214 Ultramarine Blue (P, $17.00) is more muted (90% similar).
Formula Overview
$17.00/0.05 oz. - $340.00 Per Ounce
The formula is supposed to be a "highly pigmented powder" that goes on "evenly and blends well." MAC eyeshadows run the gamut from total failures to long-time, cult-favorite staples. In general, the permanent line has been more consistent in performance--and higher performance at that--compared to limited edition launches, but it can really depend.
The Matte finish tends to have a firmer press and a bit of thinness compared to other matte formulas on the market, so MAC matte eyeshadows tend to build up better and have better wear-time without fallout as they're not powdery at all. Some of the newer matte finish shades have had a more velvety quality to them that gives them a softer feel but aren't powdery; these have been easier to blend and are often more pigmented in one layer.
The Lustre finish is designed to have sheerer pigmentation, and it often has more sheer to medium coverage with a drier, dustier consistency that can be hard to apply with a dry brush. Lustre finish shades can suffer from fallout during application, too. They are the old school version of an eyeshadow "topper." I would recommend applying with a fingertip or applying with a dampened brush to get smoother, more even coverage and minimize fallout.
The Satin finish is few and far in-between, but it is softer and more yielding than the Matte finish but performs similarly. They tend to have very low sheen but are quite blendable with medium to opaque coverage. It can be easy to mix the finish up with the Velvet finish, which has more of a sparkle-over-matte effect but are more powdery than the true Matte finish.
The Frost finish is more firmly-pressed into the pan but doesn't have fallout, is often pigmented, and blends out well enough. They can sometimes be a little drier to the touch depending on how much shimmer is in the shade. The Veluxe Pearl finish is one of the creamier takes within the range, and newer shades released in the finish tend to have more moderate, silicone-like slip. I've found that Veluxe Pearl finish shades tend to have more semi-opaque pigmentation and are more consistent in performance than some of the other finishes.
One thing I've found with MAC eyeshadows is that they tend to last longer without primer than the average brand (eight hours). While some eyeshadow shades don't swatch well, they often apply better in practice--as in on the eyes!--than just swatched on the skin. They can be quite hit or miss, and they have inconsistencies between releases (see Carbon and its sordid review history!).
Browse all of our MAC Eyeshadow swatches.
Ingredients
Talc , Zinc Stearate , Octyldodecyl Stearoyl Stearate , Isostearyl Neopentanoate , Tocopheryl Acetate , Caprylyl Glycol , Hexylene Glycol , Phenoxyethanol , [+/- Silica , Mica , Titanium Dioxide (Ci 77891) , Iron Oxides (Ci 77491, Ci 77492, Ci 77499) , Bismuth Oxychloride (Ci 77163) , Blue 1 Lake (Ci 42090) , Carmine (Ci 75470) , Chromium Hydroxide Green (Ci 77289) , Chromium Oxide Greens (Ci 77288) , Ferric Ferrocyanide (Ci 77510) , Manganese Violet (Ci 77742) , Red 40 Lake (Ci 16035) , Ultramarines (Ci 77007) , Yellow 5 Lake (Ci 19140)] Rds Product Name: Eye Shadow (Veluxe Pearl) Division: Mc (Mac)Ingredients: Talc , Zinc Stearate , Nylon-12 , Dimethicone , Octyldodecyl Stearoyl Stearate , Isostearyl Neopentanoate , Glycine Soja (Soybean) Seed Extract , Hordeum Vulgare (Barley) ExtractExtrait D'Orge , Triticum Vulgare (Wheat) Germ Extract , Tocopheryl Acetate , Ascorbyl Palmitate , Squalane , Caprylyl Glycol , Hexylene Glycol , Ceramide 3 , Cholesterol , Silica , Triethoxycaprylylsilane , Linoleic Acid , Phenoxyethanol , [+/- Mica , Titanium Dioxide (Ci 77891) , Iron Oxides (Ci 77491, Ci 77492, Ci 77499) , Bismuth Oxychloride (Ci 77163) , Blue 1 Lake (Ci 42090) , Carmine (Ci 75470) , Chromium Hydroxide Green (Ci 77289) , Chromium Oxide Greens (Ci 77288) , Ferric Ferrocyanide (Ci 77510) , Manganese Violet (Ci 77742) , Ultramarines (Ci 77007) , Yellow 5 Lake (Ci 19140)] Rds Product Name: Eye Shadow (Mac) Division: Mc (Mac)Ingredients: Talc , Zinc Stearate , Octyldodecyl Stearoyl Stearate , Isostearyl Neopentanoate , Tocopheryl Acetate , Synthetic Fluorphlogopite , Calcium Aluminum Borosilicate , Calcium Sodium Borosilicate , Aluminum Calcium Sodium Silicate , Triethoxycaprylylsilane , Tin Oxide , Silica , Caprylyl Glycol , Hexylene Glycol , Phenoxyethanol , [+/- Mica , Titanium Dioxide (Ci 77891) , Bismuth Oxychloride (Ci 77163) , Iron Oxides (Ci 77491, Ci 77492, Ci 77499) , Blue 1 Lake (Ci 42090) , Bronze Powder (Ci 77400) , Carmine (Ci 75470) , Chromium Hydroxide Green (Ci 77289) , Chromium Oxide Greens (Ci 77288) , Copper Powder (Ci 77400) , Ferric Ammonium Ferrocyanide (Ci 77510) , Ferric Ferrocyanide (Ci 77510) , Manganese Violet (Ci 77742) , Red 40 Lake (Ci 16035) , Ultramarines (Ci 77007) , Yellow 5 Lake (Ci 19140)] Rds Product Name: Powder Blush Division: Mc (Mac)Ingredients: Talc , Zinc Stearate , Calcium Aluminum Borosilicate , Octyldodecyl Stearoyl Stearate , Aluminum Calcium Sodium Silicate , Synthetic Fluorphlogopite , Isostearyl Neopentanoate , Calcium Sodium Borosilicate , Silica , Tocopheryl Acetate , Triethoxycaprylylsilane , Tin Oxide , Titanium/Titanium Dioxide , Caprylyl Glycol , Hexylene Glycol , Phenoxyethanol , [+/- Mica , Titanium Dioxide (Ci 77891) , Iron Oxides (Ci 77491) , Iron Oxides (Ci 77492) , Iron Oxides (Ci 77499) , Bismuth Oxychloride (Ci 77163) , Blue 1 Lake (Ci 42090) , Bronze Powder (Ci 77400) , Carmine (Ci 75470) , Chromium Hydroxide Green (Ci 77289) , Chromium Oxide Greens (Ci 77288) , Copper Powder (Ci 77400) , Ferric Ammonium Ferrocyanide (Ci 77510) , Ferric Ferrocyanide (Ci 77510) , Manganese Violet (Ci 77742) , Red 6 (Ci 15850) , Red 28 (Ci 45410) , Red 6 Lake (Ci 15850) , Red 7 Lake (Ci 15850) , Red 28 Lake (Ci 45410) , Red 30 Lake (Ci 73360) , Red 40 Lake (Ci 16035) , Ultramarines (Ci 77007) , Yellow 5 Lake (Ci 19140) , Yellow 6 Lake (Ci 15985)]
Disclaimer: Ingredient lists are as available by the brand (or retailer) at the time of publishing. Please always check product packaging, if it exists, for the ingredient list applicable to the product you're purchasing, or the brand or retailer's website for the most up-to-date ingredient list.
Matmata
LELimited Edition. $17.00.
Vidigal
Vidigal is a bright, fuchsia pink with strong, cool undertones and a matte finish. It had good color payoff that adhered fairly evenly to bare skin, but I found it difficult to really spread the product out and diffuse the edges, so it was a challenge to work with it as a blush (as it was listed). The texture was drier, thinner, and more firmly-pressed in the pan. It wore well for eight hours on me before it showed signs of fading.
Top Dupes
- Sugarpill Rage Quit (PiP, ) is darker (90% similar).
- Make Up For Ever M853 Neon Pink (P, $17.00) is darker (90% similar).
- Viseart Popsicle (LE, ) is cooler (90% similar).
- Huda Beauty Neon Pink #4 (LE, ) is darker (90% similar).
- UOMA Beauty Amina (LE, ) is darker (90% similar).
- Melt Cosmetics Radioactive (PiP, ) is darker, warmer (90% similar).
- Sephora Tiila (LE, ) is darker (90% similar).
- Coloured Raine Party Drip (PiP, $6.99) is darker (90% similar).
- Coloured Raine Sweetheart (PiP, ) is darker, cooler (90% similar).
- Make Up For Ever S852 Neon Pink (DC, $21.00) is more shimmery, darker (90% similar).
Ingredients
Talc , Zinc Stearate , Octyldodecyl Stearoyl Stearate , Isostearyl Neopentanoate , Tocopheryl Acetate , Caprylyl Glycol , Hexylene Glycol , Phenoxyethanol , [+/- Silica , Mica , Titanium Dioxide (Ci 77891) , Iron Oxides (Ci 77491, Ci 77492, Ci 77499) , Bismuth Oxychloride (Ci 77163) , Blue 1 Lake (Ci 42090) , Carmine (Ci 75470) , Chromium Hydroxide Green (Ci 77289) , Chromium Oxide Greens (Ci 77288) , Ferric Ferrocyanide (Ci 77510) , Manganese Violet (Ci 77742) , Red 40 Lake (Ci 16035) , Ultramarines (Ci 77007) , Yellow 5 Lake (Ci 19140)] Rds Product Name: Eye Shadow (Veluxe Pearl) Division: Mc (Mac)Ingredients: Talc , Zinc Stearate , Nylon-12 , Dimethicone , Octyldodecyl Stearoyl Stearate , Isostearyl Neopentanoate , Glycine Soja (Soybean) Seed Extract , Hordeum Vulgare (Barley) ExtractExtrait D'Orge , Triticum Vulgare (Wheat) Germ Extract , Tocopheryl Acetate , Ascorbyl Palmitate , Squalane , Caprylyl Glycol , Hexylene Glycol , Ceramide 3 , Cholesterol , Silica , Triethoxycaprylylsilane , Linoleic Acid , Phenoxyethanol , [+/- Mica , Titanium Dioxide (Ci 77891) , Iron Oxides (Ci 77491, Ci 77492, Ci 77499) , Bismuth Oxychloride (Ci 77163) , Blue 1 Lake (Ci 42090) , Carmine (Ci 75470) , Chromium Hydroxide Green (Ci 77289) , Chromium Oxide Greens (Ci 77288) , Ferric Ferrocyanide (Ci 77510) , Manganese Violet (Ci 77742) , Ultramarines (Ci 77007) , Yellow 5 Lake (Ci 19140)] Rds Product Name: Eye Shadow (Mac) Division: Mc (Mac)Ingredients: Talc , Zinc Stearate , Octyldodecyl Stearoyl Stearate , Isostearyl Neopentanoate , Tocopheryl Acetate , Synthetic Fluorphlogopite , Calcium Aluminum Borosilicate , Calcium Sodium Borosilicate , Aluminum Calcium Sodium Silicate , Triethoxycaprylylsilane , Tin Oxide , Silica , Caprylyl Glycol , Hexylene Glycol , Phenoxyethanol , [+/- Mica , Titanium Dioxide (Ci 77891) , Bismuth Oxychloride (Ci 77163) , Iron Oxides (Ci 77491, Ci 77492, Ci 77499) , Blue 1 Lake (Ci 42090) , Bronze Powder (Ci 77400) , Carmine (Ci 75470) , Chromium Hydroxide Green (Ci 77289) , Chromium Oxide Greens (Ci 77288) , Copper Powder (Ci 77400) , Ferric Ammonium Ferrocyanide (Ci 77510) , Ferric Ferrocyanide (Ci 77510) , Manganese Violet (Ci 77742) , Red 40 Lake (Ci 16035) , Ultramarines (Ci 77007) , Yellow 5 Lake (Ci 19140)] Rds Product Name: Powder Blush Division: Mc (Mac)Ingredients: Talc , Zinc Stearate , Calcium Aluminum Borosilicate , Octyldodecyl Stearoyl Stearate , Aluminum Calcium Sodium Silicate , Synthetic Fluorphlogopite , Isostearyl Neopentanoate , Calcium Sodium Borosilicate , Silica , Tocopheryl Acetate , Triethoxycaprylylsilane , Tin Oxide , Titanium/Titanium Dioxide , Caprylyl Glycol , Hexylene Glycol , Phenoxyethanol , [+/- Mica , Titanium Dioxide (Ci 77891) , Iron Oxides (Ci 77491) , Iron Oxides (Ci 77492) , Iron Oxides (Ci 77499) , Bismuth Oxychloride (Ci 77163) , Blue 1 Lake (Ci 42090) , Bronze Powder (Ci 77400) , Carmine (Ci 75470) , Chromium Hydroxide Green (Ci 77289) , Chromium Oxide Greens (Ci 77288) , Copper Powder (Ci 77400) , Ferric Ammonium Ferrocyanide (Ci 77510) , Ferric Ferrocyanide (Ci 77510) , Manganese Violet (Ci 77742) , Red 6 (Ci 15850) , Red 28 (Ci 45410) , Red 6 Lake (Ci 15850) , Red 7 Lake (Ci 15850) , Red 28 Lake (Ci 45410) , Red 30 Lake (Ci 73360) , Red 40 Lake (Ci 16035) , Ultramarines (Ci 77007) , Yellow 5 Lake (Ci 19140) , Yellow 6 Lake (Ci 15985)]
Disclaimer: Ingredient lists are as available by the brand (or retailer) at the time of publishing. Please always check product packaging, if it exists, for the ingredient list applicable to the product you're purchasing, or the brand or retailer's website for the most up-to-date ingredient list.
Vidigal
LELimited Edition.
MAC Cicero Eyeshadow x15 Palette
MAC Cicero Eyeshadow x15 Palette
MAC Cicero Eyeshadow x15 Palette
MAC Cicero Eyeshadow x15 Palette
MAC Cicero Eyeshadow x15 Palette
MAC Cicero Eyeshadow x15 Palette
MAC Cicero Eyeshadow x15 Palette
MAC Cicero Eyeshadow x15 Palette
MAC Shroom Eyeshadow
MAC Shroom Eyeshadow
MAC Teboulbou Eyeshadow
MAC Teboulbou Eyeshadow
MAC Honey Lust Eyeshadow
MAC Honey Lust Eyeshadow
MAC Ksar Eyeshadow
MAC Ksar Eyeshadow
MAC Chott Eyeshadow
MAC Chott Eyeshadow
MAC Petit Lion Eyeshadow
MAC Petit Lion Eyeshadow
MAC Finjan Eyeshadow
MAC Finjan Eyeshadow
MAC Texture Eyeshadow
MAC Texture Eyeshadow
MAC Les Portes Bleus Eyeshadow
MAC Les Portes Bleus Eyeshadow
MAC Gabriella Powder Blush
MAC Gabriella Powder Blush
MAC Carbon Eyeshadow
MAC Carbon Eyeshadow
MAC Handwritten Eyeshadow
MAC Handwritten Eyeshadow
MAC Carnal Charm Eyeshadow
MAC Carnal Charm Eyeshadow
MAC Matmata Eyeshadow
MAC Matmata Eyeshadow
MAC Vidigal Powder Blush
MAC Vidigal Powder Blush
When I spotted this Palette in-store awhile back and swatched it, it just didn’t wow me. Thus, why I never bought it or even sought reviews for it. It really could have been a special one, too, had there been several tweaks to it!
This is a mixed bag of a palette, some shades great, some average and more than a few really poor. The palette doesn’t seem to be very cohesive either and I can see why it was a lower priority for you Christine. The blue shades are far too similar and look out of place here. I think this one is an easy pass.
Does this look colourpop-ish, but a bit more confusing, less cohesive, to anyone other than me? Or is it just CP saturation?
I love the packaging. The color story is kind of weird, like the brights don’t quite go together. IDK. Regardless, the quality isn’t high enough for me to pay full price for this.
Hi Christine, I think there might be an error because the Chott shade doesn’t have any rating.
Should be fixed!
Color story is def weird but oh man if I didn’t get nostalgic vibes from Shroom and Handwritten – they were two of my first eyeshadows ever! I even hit pan on both (my only eyeshadow pans ever)
Carnal charm and vidigal are the only shades that I look at and say “wow, those are pretty and I want them”
But then I see I can get better rated dupes for less.
The random blues and reds throw me off because this is really a shimmery neutral palette with some brights tossed in for shock and awe.
Hard pass.
Hasn’t it been a long time since we last saw Carbon in a palette, or have I just not noticed it? I must say I’ve not missed it 🙂
I only liked one of the e/s in the palette, Teboulbou. So it’s an easy skip.
Personally I like this palette. As an arab with cool-neutral olive skin, these colors could not be more flattering on me. The shades are just so perfect. I like this for vacations, everything goes on well just with fingers. Most of the worst performing shades are colors I would not use often anyway, except Gabriella was definitely a disappointment on performance. I was more disappointed that all the lipsticks in the collection were so boring and easily dupe-able. I do, overall, really wish MAC would slow down their release schedule and spent some time being a little more creative and improving some of their formulas.
Wouldn’t it have made a lot more sense to separate the blush products in some way rather than weaving them in with the eyeshadows?
I read somewhere (probably here!) that the MAC consultants had to convince the artist that you need neutrals for a palette to sell and the whole thing does look like an uneasy compromise. I really wonder what he would have come up without ‘help’!
pretty, makes me think of Manny MUA palette in the pink/coral packaging…