MAC Studio Fix Fluid Has Had a Glow-Up, Here’s What’s Changed & Our Verdict
Jas is the former Senior Content Specialist at Adore Beauty. A beauty admirer turned certified addict, she brings a sharp editorial eye and pop-culture pulse to everything she creates. Her words have appeared in The Age, Sydney Morning Herald, and Broadsheet. When she’s not producing viral content or podcasting about skincare, you’ll find her thrifting for vintage treasures or binging Bravo (strictly for research, of course).
In Partnership with M.A.C Cosmetics.
MAC Studio Fix Fluid will always hold a special place in my heart. It was one of the very first foundations I remember spending my hard-earned Donut King dollars on.
Before that, I’d sneak into my older sister’s room to steal hers.
It didn’t matter that she was at least four shades darker than me, or the lashing I’d cop when she found out, all my hormonal teenage skin cared about was how picture-perfect it would make it look.
Long-wearing, full-coverage and a matte finish? All the hallmarks of a holy grail product at the time.
It was *the* crème de la crème of foundations. If you had a bottle of Studio Fix Fluid in your beauty bag, you’d made it.
Fast forward some 15 years, and 746472103 foundations later, and you’ll likely still spot Studio Fix Fluid in the kits of makeup artists, beauty enthusiasts, and loyal customers.
What makes MAC Studio Fix Fluid so enduring?
Beyond its iconic status, the MAC Foundation has evolved in hand with the industry over the years, undergoing a series of renovations that have kept it in prime position.
A relaunch in 2016 with updated skincare ingredients, a shade range expansion in 2018, and again in 2022 to now include a staggering 71 shades to choose from, ensuring no skin tone is left out.
Recently our friends at MAC jumped back into the beauty lab to rethink the cult-favourite foundation yet again. This time, changing its formula and packaging.
Naturally, I had to try it.
Ahead, you’ll find my honest thoughts and everything you need to know about the new and improved MAC Studio Fix Fluid Foundation.
Meet, the Next Generation of MAC Studio Fix Fluid SPF15.
Same name, new formula.
The M.A.C Cosmetics Studio Fix Fluid SPF15 30ml has been remastered to care for the skin while still delivering the same 24-hour, buildable coverage you know and love.
The latest iteration includes 87 per cent skincare ingredients, including sugar kelp extract to control oil plus red algae extract and hyaluronic acid to boost and maintain skin hydration.
The MAC foundation also features a new Pro Fluid Technology™ that claims to “Move with skin for a natural look and comfortable, lightweight wear”.
It’s also got a brand-new pump for better control and to keep the formula fresher for longer.
Here are some other fast facts:
- Soft-matte, natural finish with a lightweight feel.
- Contains 87% skincare ingredients and SPF15.
- 71 shades for all skin tones and textures.
- 24-hour buildable, breathable formula.
- Packaged in a recyclable glass bottle.
- Waterproof, oil-free formula.
- Suitable for sensitive skin.
Now that we’re all caught up, let’s get to the review, shall we?
My MAC Studio Fix Fluid SPF15 Review.
Shade: NC13.
It might have a brand-new face and feel, but the MAC Studio Fix Fluid’s ability to create a flawless, matte complexion without feeling heavy or looking cakey remains unchanged.
As I’m sure many of you will know, lately I’ve been loving lighter, more sheer formulas (she’s in her glowy girl era).
However, MAC Studio Fix Fluid was a friendly reminder that a matte finish foundation still has its place, too. For evenings out, special events and a booked and busy schedule, this long-wearing formula is an ideal choice.
It's not a super matte foundation, which I prefer, and it has a soft, natural finish that stays put and doesn’t transfer (cue the applause of my white shirts).
Somehow from the extensive 71 shades I managed to choose one a tad light for my skin tone (note to self for next time), but a touch of bronzer and contour brought some warmth back and blended nicely with the foundation.
Because I have dry skin, I found it best to use a beauty blender with some setting spray to buff its texture in. You could also use the M.A.C Cosmetics 170 Synthetic Rounded Slant Brush.
A hydrating skin prep was helpful too, particularly a nourishing moisturiser and SPF (especially if you're wearing it during the day).
That said, those with normal to oily skin types will no doubt appreciate its mattifying, long-wearing formula.
As it’s a full-coverage foundation, you don’t need to use too much product. Just one pump should be plenty.
And on the topic of the pump, its new design is definitely an improvement! I also appreciate it’s made from recyclable materials with 40 per cent PCR (post-consumer recycled) packaging. Go planet!
So if you’re in the market for a full-coverage, matte foundation that still has a skin-like feel, or are thinking of revisiting this cult classic, I thoroughly endorse both endeavours.
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