I’ve been using mineral foundations for years now, since discovering Bare Escentuals on a trip to the US and falling in love with the combination of easy application, matte finish and light coverage it gives me. I’m always on the lookout for an alternative though, especially since Sephora closed down, taking with it my only easy method of supply of my favourite foundation. Thus far though, all other mineral foundations I’ve tried have been disappointing. When M.A.C. sent us over their latest Mineralize Foundation (HK310), billed as “the synthesis of earthly essential elements in the form of a rich, luxurious, sold cream compact with a liquid mineral infusion”, I was definitely keen to give it a try.

As the shade looked maybe just one shade too dark for my skin when it was in the compact, I tried it out for evening wear first (there’s nothing worse than the fear you are looking orange after all!) and was pretty impressed. Being used to using a powder foundation, I found it a little tricky to gauge the amount of product I should apply with the sponge provided, but the product disappeared into my skin easily, even in the dry areas around my nose and forehead. It gives a very nice smooth, satiny finish that isn’t oily and stayed put for the whole evening (although admittedly, I was only out until 10pm so I can’t pretend I gave it a “clubbing til dawn” challenge!). The only thing that I preferred about my regular foundation over with the M.A.C. product was that I did feel the need to swipe some loose powder over my t-zone to protect against shine, but if you prefer a more dewy look you would not need this.

M.A.C.’s Mineralize Foundation comes in a selection of 11 colours in Hong Kong, and is SPF 15, dermatologist-tested and fragrance free. I would definitely consider this a good everyday foundation for a long-lasting but light coverage. Plus it pops in your handbag so much easier than a liquid or powder foundation so I’ll definitely be packing it for on-the-go!