MAC x Rosalia R Eyeshadow Palette Review & Swatches
R
MAC R Eye Shadow x 10 Palette ($50.00 for 0.35 oz.) is a new, limited edition eyeshadow palette that has 10 eyeshadows spread across five matte shades and five shimmer shades. The matte shades were thinner, somewhat powdery, and not as blendable as MAC mattes typically are (especially in these lighter tones).
The shimmers were much denser, almost thick, and were firmer in the pan, so they took a heavier-handed application style to pick up evenly (or else use a fingertip/wet brush, the latter being my preferred method). On their own, the shimmers were decent, but the thickness of the formula made it so they did not pair well with the thinner mattes used in the palette.
The color story itself is more limited as it was very light-leaning, so it likely will not translate or be as functional for darker skin tones, but it has almost no contrast, so it won’t offer as much versatility as other neutral palettes.
Ingredients
R
LELimited Edition. $50.00.
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Tomillo
Tomillo is a very pale, cool-toned pink with a matte finish. It had medium color coverage with a thin, somewhat powdery texture that applied decently but was quick to fade by six hours.
FURTHER READING: Formula Overview for details on general performance and characteristics (like scent).
Top Dupes
- LORAC Jelly Donut (LE, $19.00) is warmer (95% similar).
- Sephora Ballet (LE, ) is darker (95% similar).
- Too Faced Candy Cane (LE, $16.00) is cooler (95% similar).
- NYX Birthday Suit (P, $4.50) is warmer (95% similar).
- ColourPop Celeb (LE, $4.50) is darker (95% similar).
- Too Faced Raspberry Rose (LE, $16.00) is darker, cooler (90% similar).
- Anastasia Baby Cakes (P, $12.00) is darker, cooler (90% similar).
- Dose of Colors Fluffy (PiP, ) is darker (90% similar).
- KVD Beauty Baptism (LE, ) is warmer (90% similar).
- ColourPop Uncuffed (LE, $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, Dimethiconol Stearate, Dimethicone, Lauroyl Lysine, Diisostearyl Malate, Caprylyl Glycol, Hexylene Glycol, Octyldodecyl Stearoyl Stearate, Phenoxyethanol, [+/- Mica, Titanium Dioxide (Ci 77891), Iron Oxides (Ci 77491), Iron Oxides (Ci 77499), Iron Oxides (Ci 77492), Aluminum Powder (Ci 77000), 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), Ultramarines (Ci 77007), Yellow 5 Lake (Ci 19140)] Rds Product Name: Mesmerizing Eye Shadow Division: Mc (Mac)Ingredients: Calcium Aluminum Borosilicate, Octyldodecyl Stearoyl Stearate, Polybutene, Zinc Stearate, Silica, Dimethicone, Tin Oxide, Synthetic Fluorphlogopite, Aluminum Calcium Sodium Silicate, Caprylyl Glycol, Hexylene Glycol, Phenoxyethanol, [+/- Mica, Titanium Dioxide (Ci 77891), Iron Oxides (Ci 77491), Iron Oxides (Ci 77492), Iron Oxides (Ci 77499), Aluminum Powder (Ci 77000), Bismuth Oxychloride (Ci 77163), Blue 1 (Ci 42090), 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), Ultramarines (Ci 77007), Yellow 5 (Ci 19140), 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.
Tomillo
LELimited Edition. $17.00.
Melaza
Melaza is a light, golden peach with warm undertones and a metallic sheen. It had semi-opaque, buildable pigmentation that was best applied with a fingertip as the texture was quite thick, dense, and firmly-pressed into the pan, which made a dry brush useless against the surface. It lasted decently for seven and a half hours before fading visibly.
FURTHER READING: Formula Overview for details on general performance and characteristics (like scent).
Top Dupes
- Sydney Grace Beach Bum (P, $6.00) is warmer (95% similar).
- ColourPop Coco Crush (LE, $4.50) is more shimmery, darker, cooler (95% similar).
- NARS Morongo (LE, $19.00) is lighter, warmer (90% similar).
- Chanel Tender #3 (PiP, ) is less shimmery, darker, warmer (90% similar).
- NARS Endless (DC, $25.00) is less shimmery, warmer (90% similar).
- NARS Icon (DC, $25.00) is less shimmery, darker (90% similar).
- ColourPop OG (LE, $7.00) is darker, warmer (90% similar).
- Tom Ford Beauty Golden Mink #2 (PiP, ) is darker (90% similar).
- Laura Mercier Rosegold (PiP, $29.00) is less shimmery, darker, warmer (90% similar).
- NABLA Cosmetics Fabric (PiP, ) is darker, warmer (90% similar).
Formula Overview
$17.00/0.05 oz. - $340.00 Per Ounce
The formula is supposed to be a "highly pigmented powder" that goes on "evenly and blends well." MAC eyeshadows run the gamut from total failures to long-time, cult-favorite staples. In general, the permanent line has been more consistent in performance--and higher performance at that--compared to limited edition launches, but it can really depend.
The Matte finish tends to have a firmer press and a bit of thinness compared to other matte formulas on the market, so MAC matte eyeshadows tend to build up better and have better wear-time without fallout as they're not powdery at all. Some of the newer matte finish shades have had a more velvety quality to them that gives them a softer feel but aren't powdery; these have been easier to blend and are often more pigmented in one layer.
The Lustre finish is designed to have sheerer pigmentation, and it often has more sheer to medium coverage with a drier, dustier consistency that can be hard to apply with a dry brush. Lustre finish shades can suffer from fallout during application, too. They are the old school version of an eyeshadow "topper." I would recommend applying with a fingertip or applying with a dampened brush to get smoother, more even coverage and minimize fallout.
The Satin finish is few and far in-between, but it is softer and more yielding than the Matte finish but performs similarly. They tend to have very low sheen but are quite blendable with medium to opaque coverage. It can be easy to mix the finish up with the Velvet finish, which has more of a sparkle-over-matte effect but are more powdery than the true Matte finish.
The Frost finish is more firmly-pressed into the pan but doesn't have fallout, is often pigmented, and blends out well enough. They can sometimes be a little drier to the touch depending on how much shimmer is in the shade. The Veluxe Pearl finish is one of the creamier takes within the range, and newer shades released in the finish tend to have more moderate, silicone-like slip. I've found that Veluxe Pearl finish shades tend to have more semi-opaque pigmentation and are more consistent in performance than some of the other finishes.
One thing I've found with MAC eyeshadows is that they tend to last longer without primer than the average brand (eight hours). While some eyeshadow shades don't swatch well, they often apply better in practice--as in on the eyes!--than just swatched on the skin. They can be quite hit or miss, and they have inconsistencies between releases (see Carbon and its sordid review history!).
Browse all of our MAC Eyeshadow swatches.
Ingredients
Talc, Dimethiconol Stearate, Dimethicone, Lauroyl Lysine, Diisostearyl Malate, Caprylyl Glycol, Hexylene Glycol, Octyldodecyl Stearoyl Stearate, Phenoxyethanol, [+/- Mica, Titanium Dioxide (Ci 77891), Iron Oxides (Ci 77491), Iron Oxides (Ci 77499), Iron Oxides (Ci 77492), Aluminum Powder (Ci 77000), 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), Ultramarines (Ci 77007), Yellow 5 Lake (Ci 19140)] Rds Product Name: Mesmerizing Eye Shadow Division: Mc (Mac)Ingredients: Calcium Aluminum Borosilicate, Octyldodecyl Stearoyl Stearate, Polybutene, Zinc Stearate, Silica, Dimethicone, Tin Oxide, Synthetic Fluorphlogopite, Aluminum Calcium Sodium Silicate, Caprylyl Glycol, Hexylene Glycol, Phenoxyethanol, [+/- Mica, Titanium Dioxide (Ci 77891), Iron Oxides (Ci 77491), Iron Oxides (Ci 77492), Iron Oxides (Ci 77499), Aluminum Powder (Ci 77000), Bismuth Oxychloride (Ci 77163), Blue 1 (Ci 42090), 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), Ultramarines (Ci 77007), Yellow 5 (Ci 19140), 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.
Melaza
LELimited Edition. $17.00.
Caramelo
Caramelo is a brighter, medium orange with moderate, warm undertones and a sparkling finish. The texture was firmer, denser, and thicker with more of a dryness to it, so it did not pick up well with a dry brush. With this shade, a dampened brush was better at getting product off the surface and laying it down, though a fingertip as workable–it just had to be built up with a second layer as it was more semi-opaque. It wore well for seven and a half hours and had light fallout over time.
FURTHER READING: Formula Overview for details on general performance and characteristics (like scent).
Top Dupes
- Natasha Denona Lifetime (PiP, ) is lighter, warmer (95% similar).
- MAC Mischief Minx (LE, ) is less shimmery, darker (95% similar).
- Natasha Denona Peach (P, $28.00) is more shimmery (95% similar).
- ColourPop Boheme (LE, $4.50) is less shimmery, darker (95% similar).
- ColourPop Morning Light (LE, $8.00) is less shimmery, lighter (95% similar).
- Natasha Denona Helena (275K) (LE, ) is less shimmery (95% similar).
- Urban Decay Electrode (LE, $19.00) is less shimmery, warmer (95% similar).
- ColourPop Salt Water (P, $4.50) is less shimmery, lighter (90% similar).
- Bad Habit Sky's the Limit (PiP, ) is lighter (90% similar).
- Bad Habit Relic (PiP, ) is less shimmery, lighter (90% similar).
Formula Overview
$17.00/0.05 oz. - $340.00 Per Ounce
The formula is supposed to be a "highly pigmented powder" that goes on "evenly and blends well." MAC eyeshadows run the gamut from total failures to long-time, cult-favorite staples. In general, the permanent line has been more consistent in performance--and higher performance at that--compared to limited edition launches, but it can really depend.
The Matte finish tends to have a firmer press and a bit of thinness compared to other matte formulas on the market, so MAC matte eyeshadows tend to build up better and have better wear-time without fallout as they're not powdery at all. Some of the newer matte finish shades have had a more velvety quality to them that gives them a softer feel but aren't powdery; these have been easier to blend and are often more pigmented in one layer.
The Lustre finish is designed to have sheerer pigmentation, and it often has more sheer to medium coverage with a drier, dustier consistency that can be hard to apply with a dry brush. Lustre finish shades can suffer from fallout during application, too. They are the old school version of an eyeshadow "topper." I would recommend applying with a fingertip or applying with a dampened brush to get smoother, more even coverage and minimize fallout.
The Satin finish is few and far in-between, but it is softer and more yielding than the Matte finish but performs similarly. They tend to have very low sheen but are quite blendable with medium to opaque coverage. It can be easy to mix the finish up with the Velvet finish, which has more of a sparkle-over-matte effect but are more powdery than the true Matte finish.
The Frost finish is more firmly-pressed into the pan but doesn't have fallout, is often pigmented, and blends out well enough. They can sometimes be a little drier to the touch depending on how much shimmer is in the shade. The Veluxe Pearl finish is one of the creamier takes within the range, and newer shades released in the finish tend to have more moderate, silicone-like slip. I've found that Veluxe Pearl finish shades tend to have more semi-opaque pigmentation and are more consistent in performance than some of the other finishes.
One thing I've found with MAC eyeshadows is that they tend to last longer without primer than the average brand (eight hours). While some eyeshadow shades don't swatch well, they often apply better in practice--as in on the eyes!--than just swatched on the skin. They can be quite hit or miss, and they have inconsistencies between releases (see Carbon and its sordid review history!).
Browse all of our MAC Eyeshadow swatches.
Ingredients
Talc, Dimethiconol Stearate, Dimethicone, Lauroyl Lysine, Diisostearyl Malate, Caprylyl Glycol, Hexylene Glycol, Octyldodecyl Stearoyl Stearate, Phenoxyethanol, [+/- Mica, Titanium Dioxide (Ci 77891), Iron Oxides (Ci 77491), Iron Oxides (Ci 77499), Iron Oxides (Ci 77492), Aluminum Powder (Ci 77000), 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), Ultramarines (Ci 77007), Yellow 5 Lake (Ci 19140)] Rds Product Name: Mesmerizing Eye Shadow Division: Mc (Mac)Ingredients: Calcium Aluminum Borosilicate, Octyldodecyl Stearoyl Stearate, Polybutene, Zinc Stearate, Silica, Dimethicone, Tin Oxide, Synthetic Fluorphlogopite, Aluminum Calcium Sodium Silicate, Caprylyl Glycol, Hexylene Glycol, Phenoxyethanol, [+/- Mica, Titanium Dioxide (Ci 77891), Iron Oxides (Ci 77491), Iron Oxides (Ci 77492), Iron Oxides (Ci 77499), Aluminum Powder (Ci 77000), Bismuth Oxychloride (Ci 77163), Blue 1 (Ci 42090), 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), Ultramarines (Ci 77007), Yellow 5 (Ci 19140), 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.
Caramelo
LELimited Edition. $17.00.
Azafran
Azafran is a darker red-coral with a matte finish and soft, warm undertones. It had mostly opaque, buildable pigmentation that applied evenly and blended out well, though it had a thinner texture that did not pair well with the shimmers in the palettes. This shade stayed on well for seven and a half hours before fading visibly.
FURTHER READING: Formula Overview for details on general performance and characteristics (like scent).
Top Dupes
- Rare Beauty Nearly Mauve (P, $20.00) is lighter (95% similar).
- Dominique Cosmetics Strawberry Milk (PiP, ) is lighter, warmer (90% similar).
- NARS Blow (LE, $19.00) is lighter, warmer (90% similar).
- Coloured Raine Unbothered (PiP, $6.99) is lighter (90% similar).
- ColourPop Balancing Act (LE, $4.50) is warmer (90% similar).
- Huda Beauty Karma (PiP, ) is lighter, warmer (90% similar).
- Urban Decay Retro (PiP, $19.00) is lighter (90% similar).
- Anastasia Bloom (LE, $12.00) is lighter, cooler (85% similar).
- ColourPop Nostalgia (LE, $4.50) is warmer (85% similar).
- Viseart Liaison (LE, ) is lighter, cooler (85% similar).
Formula Overview
$17.00/0.05 oz. - $340.00 Per Ounce
The formula is supposed to be a "highly pigmented powder" that goes on "evenly and blends well." MAC eyeshadows run the gamut from total failures to long-time, cult-favorite staples. In general, the permanent line has been more consistent in performance--and higher performance at that--compared to limited edition launches, but it can really depend.
The Matte finish tends to have a firmer press and a bit of thinness compared to other matte formulas on the market, so MAC matte eyeshadows tend to build up better and have better wear-time without fallout as they're not powdery at all. Some of the newer matte finish shades have had a more velvety quality to them that gives them a softer feel but aren't powdery; these have been easier to blend and are often more pigmented in one layer.
The Lustre finish is designed to have sheerer pigmentation, and it often has more sheer to medium coverage with a drier, dustier consistency that can be hard to apply with a dry brush. Lustre finish shades can suffer from fallout during application, too. They are the old school version of an eyeshadow "topper." I would recommend applying with a fingertip or applying with a dampened brush to get smoother, more even coverage and minimize fallout.
The Satin finish is few and far in-between, but it is softer and more yielding than the Matte finish but performs similarly. They tend to have very low sheen but are quite blendable with medium to opaque coverage. It can be easy to mix the finish up with the Velvet finish, which has more of a sparkle-over-matte effect but are more powdery than the true Matte finish.
The Frost finish is more firmly-pressed into the pan but doesn't have fallout, is often pigmented, and blends out well enough. They can sometimes be a little drier to the touch depending on how much shimmer is in the shade. The Veluxe Pearl finish is one of the creamier takes within the range, and newer shades released in the finish tend to have more moderate, silicone-like slip. I've found that Veluxe Pearl finish shades tend to have more semi-opaque pigmentation and are more consistent in performance than some of the other finishes.
One thing I've found with MAC eyeshadows is that they tend to last longer without primer than the average brand (eight hours). While some eyeshadow shades don't swatch well, they often apply better in practice--as in on the eyes!--than just swatched on the skin. They can be quite hit or miss, and they have inconsistencies between releases (see Carbon and its sordid review history!).
Browse all of our MAC Eyeshadow swatches.
Ingredients
Talc, Dimethiconol Stearate, Dimethicone, Lauroyl Lysine, Diisostearyl Malate, Caprylyl Glycol, Hexylene Glycol, Octyldodecyl Stearoyl Stearate, Phenoxyethanol, [+/- Mica, Titanium Dioxide (Ci 77891), Iron Oxides (Ci 77491), Iron Oxides (Ci 77499), Iron Oxides (Ci 77492), Aluminum Powder (Ci 77000), 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), Ultramarines (Ci 77007), Yellow 5 Lake (Ci 19140)] Rds Product Name: Mesmerizing Eye Shadow Division: Mc (Mac)Ingredients: Calcium Aluminum Borosilicate, Octyldodecyl Stearoyl Stearate, Polybutene, Zinc Stearate, Silica, Dimethicone, Tin Oxide, Synthetic Fluorphlogopite, Aluminum Calcium Sodium Silicate, Caprylyl Glycol, Hexylene Glycol, Phenoxyethanol, [+/- Mica, Titanium Dioxide (Ci 77891), Iron Oxides (Ci 77491), Iron Oxides (Ci 77492), Iron Oxides (Ci 77499), Aluminum Powder (Ci 77000), Bismuth Oxychloride (Ci 77163), Blue 1 (Ci 42090), 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), Ultramarines (Ci 77007), Yellow 5 (Ci 19140), 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.
Azafran
LELimited Edition. $17.00.
Cacao
Cacao is a medium gold with strong, warm orange undertones and a sparkling finish. The base seemed almost transparent, so it had more medium, somewhat buildable coverage. The texture was dense, thick, and harder to pick up with a dry brush without really pushing hard at the surface. I would recommend using a fingertip to apply, which helped to pick up product and to apply it it to the lid with more even coverage and less fallout. It lasted decently for seven and a half hours but had some fallout over time.
FURTHER READING: Formula Overview for details on general performance and characteristics (like scent).
Top Dupes
- Urban Decay House Targaryen (LE, $19.00) is warmer (95% similar).
- Linda Hallberg Cosmetics Collision (LE, ) is more shimmery, warmer (95% similar).
- ColourPop Lucido (LE, $4.50) is more shimmery, lighter (95% similar).
- Sydney Grace Bask (Light) (PiP, $6.00) is less shimmery, lighter (90% similar).
- Dose of Colors Suz (LE, ) is more shimmery, lighter (90% similar).
- PIXI Beauty Nude Lustre (PiP, $20.00) is less shimmery, lighter (90% similar).
- ColourPop Ray (LE, $4.50) is more shimmery, lighter (90% similar).
- ColourPop The Mayor (LE, $4.50) is less shimmery (90% similar).
- Anastasia Inspire (LE, $12.00) is less shimmery, lighter (90% similar).
- Pat McGrath After Glow (LE, $25.00) is more shimmery, darker (90% similar).
Formula Overview
$17.00/0.05 oz. - $340.00 Per Ounce
The formula is supposed to be a "highly pigmented powder" that goes on "evenly and blends well." MAC eyeshadows run the gamut from total failures to long-time, cult-favorite staples. In general, the permanent line has been more consistent in performance--and higher performance at that--compared to limited edition launches, but it can really depend.
The Matte finish tends to have a firmer press and a bit of thinness compared to other matte formulas on the market, so MAC matte eyeshadows tend to build up better and have better wear-time without fallout as they're not powdery at all. Some of the newer matte finish shades have had a more velvety quality to them that gives them a softer feel but aren't powdery; these have been easier to blend and are often more pigmented in one layer.
The Lustre finish is designed to have sheerer pigmentation, and it often has more sheer to medium coverage with a drier, dustier consistency that can be hard to apply with a dry brush. Lustre finish shades can suffer from fallout during application, too. They are the old school version of an eyeshadow "topper." I would recommend applying with a fingertip or applying with a dampened brush to get smoother, more even coverage and minimize fallout.
The Satin finish is few and far in-between, but it is softer and more yielding than the Matte finish but performs similarly. They tend to have very low sheen but are quite blendable with medium to opaque coverage. It can be easy to mix the finish up with the Velvet finish, which has more of a sparkle-over-matte effect but are more powdery than the true Matte finish.
The Frost finish is more firmly-pressed into the pan but doesn't have fallout, is often pigmented, and blends out well enough. They can sometimes be a little drier to the touch depending on how much shimmer is in the shade. The Veluxe Pearl finish is one of the creamier takes within the range, and newer shades released in the finish tend to have more moderate, silicone-like slip. I've found that Veluxe Pearl finish shades tend to have more semi-opaque pigmentation and are more consistent in performance than some of the other finishes.
One thing I've found with MAC eyeshadows is that they tend to last longer without primer than the average brand (eight hours). While some eyeshadow shades don't swatch well, they often apply better in practice--as in on the eyes!--than just swatched on the skin. They can be quite hit or miss, and they have inconsistencies between releases (see Carbon and its sordid review history!).
Browse all of our MAC Eyeshadow swatches.
Ingredients
Talc, Dimethiconol Stearate, Dimethicone, Lauroyl Lysine, Diisostearyl Malate, Caprylyl Glycol, Hexylene Glycol, Octyldodecyl Stearoyl Stearate, Phenoxyethanol, [+/- Mica, Titanium Dioxide (Ci 77891), Iron Oxides (Ci 77491), Iron Oxides (Ci 77499), Iron Oxides (Ci 77492), Aluminum Powder (Ci 77000), 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), Ultramarines (Ci 77007), Yellow 5 Lake (Ci 19140)] Rds Product Name: Mesmerizing Eye Shadow Division: Mc (Mac)Ingredients: Calcium Aluminum Borosilicate, Octyldodecyl Stearoyl Stearate, Polybutene, Zinc Stearate, Silica, Dimethicone, Tin Oxide, Synthetic Fluorphlogopite, Aluminum Calcium Sodium Silicate, Caprylyl Glycol, Hexylene Glycol, Phenoxyethanol, [+/- Mica, Titanium Dioxide (Ci 77891), Iron Oxides (Ci 77491), Iron Oxides (Ci 77492), Iron Oxides (Ci 77499), Aluminum Powder (Ci 77000), Bismuth Oxychloride (Ci 77163), Blue 1 (Ci 42090), 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), Ultramarines (Ci 77007), Yellow 5 (Ci 19140), 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.
Cacao
LELimited Edition. $17.00.
Shredded Coco
Shredded Coco is a light, yellowy beige with a matte finish. It had medium color payoff that was paired with a soft, thinner consistency that had some powderiness and was prone to fading. The eyeshadow only wore for six hours before fading noticeably.
FURTHER READING: Formula Overview for details on general performance and characteristics (like scent).
Top Dupes
- NYX Lap Dance (P, $4.50) is warmer (95% similar).
- ColourPop Bluffin' (PiP, $4.50) is lighter (95% similar).
- Tom Ford Beauty Noir Fume #1 (PiP, ) is warmer (95% similar).
- ColourPop Rowdy (PiP, $4.50) is more shimmery (95% similar).
- Too Faced Vanilla Wafers (LE, $16.00) is darker (95% similar).
- Marc Jacobs Beauty Perfect-O (P, $29.00) is more shimmery, warmer (90% similar).
- Marc Jacobs Beauty Take a Memo (PiP, ) is lighter, warmer (90% similar).
- Too Faced Good Girl (LE, $16.00) is warmer (90% similar).
- Makeup Geek So Pale (LE, $6.00) is lighter (90% similar).
- ColourPop In the Buff (PiP, $4.50) is lighter, cooler (90% similar).
Formula Overview
$17.00/0.05 oz. - $340.00 Per Ounce
The formula is supposed to be a "highly pigmented powder" that goes on "evenly and blends well." MAC eyeshadows run the gamut from total failures to long-time, cult-favorite staples. In general, the permanent line has been more consistent in performance--and higher performance at that--compared to limited edition launches, but it can really depend.
The Matte finish tends to have a firmer press and a bit of thinness compared to other matte formulas on the market, so MAC matte eyeshadows tend to build up better and have better wear-time without fallout as they're not powdery at all. Some of the newer matte finish shades have had a more velvety quality to them that gives them a softer feel but aren't powdery; these have been easier to blend and are often more pigmented in one layer.
The Lustre finish is designed to have sheerer pigmentation, and it often has more sheer to medium coverage with a drier, dustier consistency that can be hard to apply with a dry brush. Lustre finish shades can suffer from fallout during application, too. They are the old school version of an eyeshadow "topper." I would recommend applying with a fingertip or applying with a dampened brush to get smoother, more even coverage and minimize fallout.
The Satin finish is few and far in-between, but it is softer and more yielding than the Matte finish but performs similarly. They tend to have very low sheen but are quite blendable with medium to opaque coverage. It can be easy to mix the finish up with the Velvet finish, which has more of a sparkle-over-matte effect but are more powdery than the true Matte finish.
The Frost finish is more firmly-pressed into the pan but doesn't have fallout, is often pigmented, and blends out well enough. They can sometimes be a little drier to the touch depending on how much shimmer is in the shade. The Veluxe Pearl finish is one of the creamier takes within the range, and newer shades released in the finish tend to have more moderate, silicone-like slip. I've found that Veluxe Pearl finish shades tend to have more semi-opaque pigmentation and are more consistent in performance than some of the other finishes.
One thing I've found with MAC eyeshadows is that they tend to last longer without primer than the average brand (eight hours). While some eyeshadow shades don't swatch well, they often apply better in practice--as in on the eyes!--than just swatched on the skin. They can be quite hit or miss, and they have inconsistencies between releases (see Carbon and its sordid review history!).
Browse all of our MAC Eyeshadow swatches.
Ingredients
Talc, Dimethiconol Stearate, Dimethicone, Lauroyl Lysine, Diisostearyl Malate, Caprylyl Glycol, Hexylene Glycol, Octyldodecyl Stearoyl Stearate, Phenoxyethanol, [+/- Mica, Titanium Dioxide (Ci 77891), Iron Oxides (Ci 77491), Iron Oxides (Ci 77499), Iron Oxides (Ci 77492), Aluminum Powder (Ci 77000), 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), Ultramarines (Ci 77007), Yellow 5 Lake (Ci 19140)] Rds Product Name: Mesmerizing Eye Shadow Division: Mc (Mac)Ingredients: Calcium Aluminum Borosilicate, Octyldodecyl Stearoyl Stearate, Polybutene, Zinc Stearate, Silica, Dimethicone, Tin Oxide, Synthetic Fluorphlogopite, Aluminum Calcium Sodium Silicate, Caprylyl Glycol, Hexylene Glycol, Phenoxyethanol, [+/- Mica, Titanium Dioxide (Ci 77891), Iron Oxides (Ci 77491), Iron Oxides (Ci 77492), Iron Oxides (Ci 77499), Aluminum Powder (Ci 77000), Bismuth Oxychloride (Ci 77163), Blue 1 (Ci 42090), 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), Ultramarines (Ci 77007), Yellow 5 (Ci 19140), 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.
Shredded Coco
LELimited Edition. $17.00.
Café Con Leche
Café Con Leche is a light-medium, peachy brown with moderate, warm undertones and a matte finish. It had semi-opaque pigmentation, which I didn’t find buildable, but it was fairly blendable as long as I didn’t use it with the shimmers in the palette as it was prone to becoming quite uneven that way. The texture was thin, a little drier, which resulted in some powderiness. It stayed on well for six and a half hours before fading noticeably.
FURTHER READING: Formula Overview for details on general performance and characteristics (like scent).
Top Dupes
- Anastasia HOE (LE, $12.00) is darker, warmer (95% similar).
- Urban Decay Beyond (LE, $19.00) is warmer (90% similar).
- Guerlain Electric Look #5 (LE, ) is more shimmery, lighter (90% similar).
- ColourPop Eventide (LE, $4.50) is darker (90% similar).
- Sephora Saddle (LE, ) is warmer (85% similar).
- ColourPop Two Peas (PiP, $4.50) is darker, warmer (85% similar).
- Makeup Geek Buffed (LE, $6.00) is lighter (85% similar).
- Huda Beauty Sandalwood (Remastered) (PiP, ) is darker, warmer (85% similar).
- MAC Dada Issues (PiP, $17.00) is darker, warmer (80% 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, Dimethiconol Stearate, Dimethicone, Lauroyl Lysine, Diisostearyl Malate, Caprylyl Glycol, Hexylene Glycol, Octyldodecyl Stearoyl Stearate, Phenoxyethanol, [+/- Mica, Titanium Dioxide (Ci 77891), Iron Oxides (Ci 77491), Iron Oxides (Ci 77499), Iron Oxides (Ci 77492), Aluminum Powder (Ci 77000), 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), Ultramarines (Ci 77007), Yellow 5 Lake (Ci 19140)] Rds Product Name: Mesmerizing Eye Shadow Division: Mc (Mac)Ingredients: Calcium Aluminum Borosilicate, Octyldodecyl Stearoyl Stearate, Polybutene, Zinc Stearate, Silica, Dimethicone, Tin Oxide, Synthetic Fluorphlogopite, Aluminum Calcium Sodium Silicate, Caprylyl Glycol, Hexylene Glycol, Phenoxyethanol, [+/- Mica, Titanium Dioxide (Ci 77891), Iron Oxides (Ci 77491), Iron Oxides (Ci 77492), Iron Oxides (Ci 77499), Aluminum Powder (Ci 77000), Bismuth Oxychloride (Ci 77163), Blue 1 (Ci 42090), 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), Ultramarines (Ci 77007), Yellow 5 (Ci 19140), 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.
Café Con Leche
LELimited Edition. $17.00.
Café Tinto
Café Tinto is a light, peachy bronze with warmer undertones and flecks of pink and gold sparkle throughout a metallic finish. It had opaque color payoff in a single layer, which applied best using a fingertip as the texture was thicker and firmer in the pan, so a dry brush did not pick up product evenly (and also yielded more fallout during application). It lasted for seven and a half hours before fading but had light fallout over time.
FURTHER READING: Formula Overview for details on general performance and characteristics (like scent).
Top Dupes
- LORAC Aurora (PiP, ) is cooler (95% similar).
- ColourPop OG (LE, $7.00) is cooler (95% similar).
- Sydney Grace Versailles (LE, $6.00) is lighter (95% similar).
- Charlotte Tilbury Love Glow (Prime) (LE, ) is less shimmery, warmer (90% similar).
- Charlotte Tilbury Smokey Eyes are Forever Love Eyes Enhance (LE, ) is warmer (90% similar).
- Too Faced Push-up (2018) (PiP, $16.00) is less shimmery, warmer (90% similar).
- Sydney Grace Star Struck (P, $8.00) is lighter, warmer (90% similar).
- Huda Beauty Crave (PiP, ) is brighter, cooler (90% similar).
- Hourglass Reflect (P, $29.00) is less shimmery, cooler (90% similar).
- Too Faced Cutie Patootie (LE, $16.00) is less shimmery, lighter, cooler (90% similar).
Formula Overview
$17.00/0.05 oz. - $340.00 Per Ounce
The formula is supposed to be a "highly pigmented powder" that goes on "evenly and blends well." MAC eyeshadows run the gamut from total failures to long-time, cult-favorite staples. In general, the permanent line has been more consistent in performance--and higher performance at that--compared to limited edition launches, but it can really depend.
The Matte finish tends to have a firmer press and a bit of thinness compared to other matte formulas on the market, so MAC matte eyeshadows tend to build up better and have better wear-time without fallout as they're not powdery at all. Some of the newer matte finish shades have had a more velvety quality to them that gives them a softer feel but aren't powdery; these have been easier to blend and are often more pigmented in one layer.
The Lustre finish is designed to have sheerer pigmentation, and it often has more sheer to medium coverage with a drier, dustier consistency that can be hard to apply with a dry brush. Lustre finish shades can suffer from fallout during application, too. They are the old school version of an eyeshadow "topper." I would recommend applying with a fingertip or applying with a dampened brush to get smoother, more even coverage and minimize fallout.
The Satin finish is few and far in-between, but it is softer and more yielding than the Matte finish but performs similarly. They tend to have very low sheen but are quite blendable with medium to opaque coverage. It can be easy to mix the finish up with the Velvet finish, which has more of a sparkle-over-matte effect but are more powdery than the true Matte finish.
The Frost finish is more firmly-pressed into the pan but doesn't have fallout, is often pigmented, and blends out well enough. They can sometimes be a little drier to the touch depending on how much shimmer is in the shade. The Veluxe Pearl finish is one of the creamier takes within the range, and newer shades released in the finish tend to have more moderate, silicone-like slip. I've found that Veluxe Pearl finish shades tend to have more semi-opaque pigmentation and are more consistent in performance than some of the other finishes.
One thing I've found with MAC eyeshadows is that they tend to last longer without primer than the average brand (eight hours). While some eyeshadow shades don't swatch well, they often apply better in practice--as in on the eyes!--than just swatched on the skin. They can be quite hit or miss, and they have inconsistencies between releases (see Carbon and its sordid review history!).
Browse all of our MAC Eyeshadow swatches.
Ingredients
Talc, Dimethiconol Stearate, Dimethicone, Lauroyl Lysine, Diisostearyl Malate, Caprylyl Glycol, Hexylene Glycol, Octyldodecyl Stearoyl Stearate, Phenoxyethanol, [+/- Mica, Titanium Dioxide (Ci 77891), Iron Oxides (Ci 77491), Iron Oxides (Ci 77499), Iron Oxides (Ci 77492), Aluminum Powder (Ci 77000), 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), Ultramarines (Ci 77007), Yellow 5 Lake (Ci 19140)] Rds Product Name: Mesmerizing Eye Shadow Division: Mc (Mac)Ingredients: Calcium Aluminum Borosilicate, Octyldodecyl Stearoyl Stearate, Polybutene, Zinc Stearate, Silica, Dimethicone, Tin Oxide, Synthetic Fluorphlogopite, Aluminum Calcium Sodium Silicate, Caprylyl Glycol, Hexylene Glycol, Phenoxyethanol, [+/- Mica, Titanium Dioxide (Ci 77891), Iron Oxides (Ci 77491), Iron Oxides (Ci 77492), Iron Oxides (Ci 77499), Aluminum Powder (Ci 77000), Bismuth Oxychloride (Ci 77163), Blue 1 (Ci 42090), 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), Ultramarines (Ci 77007), Yellow 5 (Ci 19140), 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.
Café Tinto
LELimited Edition. $17.00.
Salvia
Salvia is a medium, peachy orange with warm undertones and a matte finish. It had medium color payoff, at best, which did not build up–even when I layered it over an eyeshadow primer. The texture was thin, slightly drier, and somewhat powdery. This shade showed signs of fading after six hours of wear.
FURTHER READING: Formula Overview for details on general performance and characteristics (like scent).
Top Dupes
- Too Faced Spiked Cider (LE, $16.00) is warmer (90% similar).
- MAC Paint by Umber (LE, $17.00) is darker, warmer (90% similar).
- Anastasia Chai (Carli) (LE, $12.00) is darker, warmer (90% similar).
- ColourPop Pip (LE, $4.50) is darker (90% similar).
- Guerlain Electric Look #5 (LE, ) is more shimmery, warmer (90% similar).
- Urban Decay Hot Spell (PiP, $19.00) is warmer (85% similar).
- ColourPop Chai (LE, $4.50) is warmer (85% similar).
- Too Faced Desert Vibes (LE, $16.00) is lighter, warmer (85% similar).
- ColourPop Satin Wings (LE, $4.50) is darker, warmer (85% similar).
- Wet 'n' Wild My Glamour Squad #6 (PiP, ) is warmer (85% similar).
Formula Overview
$17.00/0.05 oz. - $340.00 Per Ounce
The formula is supposed to be a "highly pigmented powder" that goes on "evenly and blends well." MAC eyeshadows run the gamut from total failures to long-time, cult-favorite staples. In general, the permanent line has been more consistent in performance--and higher performance at that--compared to limited edition launches, but it can really depend.
The Matte finish tends to have a firmer press and a bit of thinness compared to other matte formulas on the market, so MAC matte eyeshadows tend to build up better and have better wear-time without fallout as they're not powdery at all. Some of the newer matte finish shades have had a more velvety quality to them that gives them a softer feel but aren't powdery; these have been easier to blend and are often more pigmented in one layer.
The Lustre finish is designed to have sheerer pigmentation, and it often has more sheer to medium coverage with a drier, dustier consistency that can be hard to apply with a dry brush. Lustre finish shades can suffer from fallout during application, too. They are the old school version of an eyeshadow "topper." I would recommend applying with a fingertip or applying with a dampened brush to get smoother, more even coverage and minimize fallout.
The Satin finish is few and far in-between, but it is softer and more yielding than the Matte finish but performs similarly. They tend to have very low sheen but are quite blendable with medium to opaque coverage. It can be easy to mix the finish up with the Velvet finish, which has more of a sparkle-over-matte effect but are more powdery than the true Matte finish.
The Frost finish is more firmly-pressed into the pan but doesn't have fallout, is often pigmented, and blends out well enough. They can sometimes be a little drier to the touch depending on how much shimmer is in the shade. The Veluxe Pearl finish is one of the creamier takes within the range, and newer shades released in the finish tend to have more moderate, silicone-like slip. I've found that Veluxe Pearl finish shades tend to have more semi-opaque pigmentation and are more consistent in performance than some of the other finishes.
One thing I've found with MAC eyeshadows is that they tend to last longer without primer than the average brand (eight hours). While some eyeshadow shades don't swatch well, they often apply better in practice--as in on the eyes!--than just swatched on the skin. They can be quite hit or miss, and they have inconsistencies between releases (see Carbon and its sordid review history!).
Browse all of our MAC Eyeshadow swatches.
Ingredients
Talc, Dimethiconol Stearate, Dimethicone, Lauroyl Lysine, Diisostearyl Malate, Caprylyl Glycol, Hexylene Glycol, Octyldodecyl Stearoyl Stearate, Phenoxyethanol, [+/- Mica, Titanium Dioxide (Ci 77891), Iron Oxides (Ci 77491), Iron Oxides (Ci 77499), Iron Oxides (Ci 77492), Aluminum Powder (Ci 77000), 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), Ultramarines (Ci 77007), Yellow 5 Lake (Ci 19140)] Rds Product Name: Mesmerizing Eye Shadow Division: Mc (Mac)Ingredients: Calcium Aluminum Borosilicate, Octyldodecyl Stearoyl Stearate, Polybutene, Zinc Stearate, Silica, Dimethicone, Tin Oxide, Synthetic Fluorphlogopite, Aluminum Calcium Sodium Silicate, Caprylyl Glycol, Hexylene Glycol, Phenoxyethanol, [+/- Mica, Titanium Dioxide (Ci 77891), Iron Oxides (Ci 77491), Iron Oxides (Ci 77492), Iron Oxides (Ci 77499), Aluminum Powder (Ci 77000), Bismuth Oxychloride (Ci 77163), Blue 1 (Ci 42090), 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), Ultramarines (Ci 77007), Yellow 5 (Ci 19140), 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.
Salvia
LELimited Edition. $17.00.
Miga de Pan
Miga de Pan is a dark gold with warmer undertones and a sparkling, metallic finish. It had opaque pigmentation that picked up best with a fingertip as the consistency was thick, dense, and firmly-packed into the pan. It was thick enough that it did not pair well with the mattes in the palette, as there was a noticeable difference in the layers on my lid. It stayed on well for seven and a half hours with some fallout over time.
FURTHER READING: Formula Overview for details on general performance and characteristics (like scent).
Top Dupes
- Natasha Denona Brass (PiP, $29.00) is more shimmery, darker (95% similar).
- JD Glow 365 (P, $7.50) is more shimmery, warmer (95% similar).
- ColourPop Colors of the Wind (LE, $6.00) is more shimmery, warmer (95% similar).
- ColourPop Corona (LE, $4.50) is more shimmery, cooler (95% similar).
- Pat McGrath Jubilee (PiP, $25.00) is more shimmery, lighter (95% similar).
- Natasha Denona Orium (251DC) (LE, $29.00) is more shimmery, lighter (95% similar).
- Huda Beauty Jaguar #3 (LE, ) is darker (95% similar).
- ColourPop Cursed (LE, $8.00) is more shimmery, warmer (95% similar).
- ColourPop Small Fairy (LE, $4.50) is more shimmery, cooler (90% similar).
- Coloured Raine Lemon Wheat Grass (LE, $6.99) is more shimmery, 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, Dimethiconol Stearate, Dimethicone, Lauroyl Lysine, Diisostearyl Malate, Caprylyl Glycol, Hexylene Glycol, Octyldodecyl Stearoyl Stearate, Phenoxyethanol, [+/- Mica, Titanium Dioxide (Ci 77891), Iron Oxides (Ci 77491), Iron Oxides (Ci 77499), Iron Oxides (Ci 77492), Aluminum Powder (Ci 77000), 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), Ultramarines (Ci 77007), Yellow 5 Lake (Ci 19140)] Rds Product Name: Mesmerizing Eye Shadow Division: Mc (Mac)Ingredients: Calcium Aluminum Borosilicate, Octyldodecyl Stearoyl Stearate, Polybutene, Zinc Stearate, Silica, Dimethicone, Tin Oxide, Synthetic Fluorphlogopite, Aluminum Calcium Sodium Silicate, Caprylyl Glycol, Hexylene Glycol, Phenoxyethanol, [+/- Mica, Titanium Dioxide (Ci 77891), Iron Oxides (Ci 77491), Iron Oxides (Ci 77492), Iron Oxides (Ci 77499), Aluminum Powder (Ci 77000), Bismuth Oxychloride (Ci 77163), Blue 1 (Ci 42090), 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), Ultramarines (Ci 77007), Yellow 5 (Ci 19140), 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.
That this was cultivated by a Latina has me truly BAFFLED. That extremely limited amount of skintones who could effectively get some sort of look from it screams colorism. Something that unfortunately occurs across all races and ethnicities. Her lipsticks are bold, for the most part, though! I have Spicy Pimentón on now, and WOW, what a vivid dark orange! Super pretty against my medium olive skintone. But rather drying compared to my Siempré Selena.
To be fair…some would not say she is latina (if that is defined as “latin American”). She is a Spaniard.
True! Correction noted. By accurate definition, Rosalia R is Hispanic. Someone from Spain or Spanish speaking, whereas Latina, Latino and Latinx depict those speaking either Spanish or Portuguese that are from lands taken by the Spanish and Portuguese by forceful actions in most cases.
Wow – this is so, so average – even by MAC’s standards. Not only has this colour story been done many, many times by all the major brands, it has not even been done well.
It would hardly suit anyone really, being full of very soft and pale shades.
Very surprising that this leans so light that some of the colors hardly show up on your skin Christine. I had higher hopes for this one.
This is an easy pass for me. It is the least interesting eyeshadow palette released by MAC in a long time. Might be my memory being short, what do I know. 😀
But seriously, why not adding some darker saturated colours to this instead of some really light ones.
MAC can do a lot better, releases like this seems hurried and not thought through to me.
A pity.
I hardly expected this from a Spanish music artist who uses Flamenco, Barcelona, and even occasional Gitano influences. My imagination suggests a colorful selection, possibly inspired regionally by Gaudi….not this bland, indistinguishable, run together set of shades too light for most. If the music could be considered ‘snowy’ in the good sense, shouldn’t the palette also?
Uh, showy? Get a grip, autocorrect.