Thursday 23 July 2009

L'Oreal Studio Secrets Smoothing Foundation

RRP: £15.99 (currently on promotion at £11.99)
# of shades available: 8

--What does the promo say?--
"Professional application: The precision brush of L'Oréal Paris Studio Secrets High Definition Smoothing Foundation blends the smooth foundation into the skin, resulting in perfectly even coverage. Tailor-made shades: shades have been adapted to a broad range of skin tones. Soft, supple, almost elastic. The foundation smoothes on easily giving a smooth, even finish. The "soft-focus" effect leaves the skin beautifully smooth, provides luminosity, making the skin look radiant and glowing. The complexion looks truly sublime."

--Packaging--
An honest size (unlike No7's built-in brush foundation) and a travel-friendly size and format too (saves you packing an extra foundation brush). Bottle is simple and sophisticated, bearing L'Oreal logo and product information in black.

--Application--
Pump some foundation into the brush using the button at the other end of the bottle. Blend outwards towards jawline, making sure you also blend into contours carefully for a flawless result.

--Appearance--
The shade I was sent was good for me in summer, but I wouldn't want to use it in winter. This does imply, though, that there would be numerous options for all skin tones. Blends in naturally and provides fairly good coverage (though people with blemishes will need to have some concealer on standby as usual).

--Texture/consistency--
Fluid, smooth and balanced. Perhaps not my favourite from foundations I've used previously, but this will always be a very personal thing for people.

--Longevity--
Stands up easily to its competitors, especially when finished with a pressed powder.

--Value for money--
Honestly? I'd say £15.99 is a tad expensive for something which, for me, lacked the wow factor. At the promotional price it's probably alright, as it provides a sound built-in brush mechanism at a travel-friendly size without being cumbersome. It's also a good touchstone for people who don't know where to start with foundation, as the colour matching at Studio Secrets counters seems fairly reliable. However, for the same price, you can ultimately get a wider range of shades and nicer textures from Max Factor.

perfect partners
L'Oreal Studio Secrets Anti-Shine Mattifying Primer, £9.99
L'Oreal Studio Secrets Lipstick, £8.99

1 comment:

Catriona said...

I bought this a few weeks ago and while I think it's pretty good, I noticed something today - it's only 17ml! I can't believe I didn't notice this before!

Even at the promotion price, it's more expensive than Mac and at full price it's more expensive than Prescriptives etc.! I haven't tried any high end foundation but for the price, I'd expect them to be better.