In this series we call Tried & True, we shortlist the holy grails and the OGs, the top-shelf regulars, under-the-radar picks, as well as the new and fresh-off-the-lab and the viral sensations worth the hype from reputable brands that we’ve road-tested ourselves.
Behind the name, we explore what makes a brand worth discovering, whether it’s how it has redefined beauty, its founder’s inspiring story, or how its range of offerings gave consumers what they truly want and need. In this edition, we discover the legacy of M.A.C Cosmetics and take a look at some of the products that earned the brand its status as a global beauty icon.
Founded nearly 40 years ago, M.A.C has been a mainstay in the makeup industry with its premium pigments, diverse shade ranges, and knack for paving the way in trends. From its humble beginnings in Toronto to its current status as a global beauty powerhouse, M.A.C’s story is one of artistic vision, unwavering individuality, and a dedication to empowering all through the transformative effects of makeup.
The story of M.A.C begins in 1984, the brainchild of makeup artist Frank Toskan and photographer Frank Angelo. M.A.C, short for Makeup Art Cosmetics, stepped onto the scene with a mission to celebrate individuality and diversity through makeup. Frustrated by the limited makeup options that could read well on professional photography, they decided to create their own line of high-performance makeup right in their home kitchen. Its first range of products consisted of lipsticks inspired by the colors of crayons, which quickly gained popularity for their rich color payoff and long-wearing formula. The success of those first lipsticks eventually helped expand their product line beyond lips to offer a wide selection of pencils, powders, and bases.
M.A.C’s success wasn’t just about the quality of its cosmetics. It challenged traditional notions of beauty by creating an extensive line of products that encouraged experimentation and self-expression. From bold and dramatic eyeshadows to unique textures like its iconic Lipglass, M.A.C empowered makeup enthusiasts to create unique looks and redefine beauty on their own terms.
Beyond that, M.A.C has fostered a reputation for groundbreaking collaborations. It has partnered with iconic figures in fashion such as Vivienne Westwood and pop stars like Lady Gaga and Rihanna to create limited-edition collections that celebrate creativity and push the boundaries of makeup.
HERO PRODUCT
M.A.C Studio Fix Fluid SPF 15 Foundation
First, this foundation offers buildable coverage that can easily transition a natural, everyday look to full-on glam. Whether you’re dealing with blemishes, uneven skin tone, or redness, the Studio Fix Fluid has got you covered, literally. With just a pump or two, it can already blur imperfections without feeling heavy or cakey on the skin. Texture-wise, the formula is creamy and blends like a dream. Plus, it’s not overly drying, making it suitable for various skin types including combination and oily skin.
Another point worth mentioning is the shade range. M.A.C is renowned for its extensive selection of shades, catering to a diverse range of skin tones so you’re bound to find your perfect match in this lineup.
M.A.C Studio Fix Fluid Foundation
P2,400, Lazada
TIMELESS ICON
M.A.C Prep + Prime Fix+
The formula of this setting spray is nothing short of impressive. It’s infused with hydrating and skin-nourishing ingredients such as green tea, chamomile, and cucumber, so not only does it set makeup but it also refreshes and revitalizes the skin. The lightweight mist feels refreshing upon application and doesn’t leave behind any sticky residue, allowing makeup to seamlessly blend and set.
A few spritzes before makeup application help to hydrate and prime the skin, creating a smooth canvas for foundation and ensuring its longevity. After putting on makeup, a final spritz of the Fix+ sets everything in place, melting powders into the skin and imparting a natural, skin-like finish that lasts throughout the day.
The M.A.C Fix+ Setting Spray is also multifunctional. Other than setting makeup, it can also be used in a variety of ways to enhance and refresh the complexion. Some have found that spritzing it onto their makeup brushes before applying powder products intensifies their pigmentation and helps it adhere better to the skin. It’s also a game-changer for foiling eyeshadows and turning them into vibrant and long-wearing liners.
M.A.C Prep + Prime Fix+
P1,800, Lazada
HARDWORKING MUST-TRY
M.A.C Studio Fix Weightless Loose Powder
This powder excels at providing a soft matte finish without looking flat. It can blur imperfections, minimize the appearance of pores, and prevent oil breakthroughs for hours, making it a great choice for oily or combination skin types. When it comes to longevity, it can keep makeup in place for hours, reducing the need to touch up often throughout the day. Even in humid conditions, it helps keep excess oil at bay to maintain a fresh and matte look.
M.A.C Studio Fix Weightless Loose Powder
P2,100, Lazada
NEW ICON
M.A.Cximal Silky Matte Lipstick
If you’re on the lookout for a lipstick that makes a statement, the M.A.Cximal Silky Matte Lipstick should be on your radar. This lipstick is known for its rich pigmentation and ultra-matte finish. Upon application, it glides easily onto the lips, delivering intense color in a single swipe. As the name suggests, the Silky Matte finish is truly matte but the formula is lightweight and comfortable enough to wear without feeling drying or heavy on the lips.
This lipstick comes with an extensive color range, including the iconic vivid blue-red shade Ruby Woo which has achieved legendary status because it flatters a lot of skin tones and makes a striking look with every application.
M.A.Cximal Silky Matte Lipstick
P1,350, Rustan’s
UNDER-THE-RADAR ESSENTIAL
M.A.C Pro Longwear Concealer
This concealer packs a punch when it comes to hiding imperfections. Be it dark circles, blemishes, or redness that needs covering up, a tiny dot is all you need to achieve airbrushed-looking skin. It’s highly pigmented yet lightweight, camouflaging flaws without feeling heavy or cakey. True to its name, the Pro Longwear Concealer lives up to its promise of staying power. Once applied, it locks in place and refuses to budge for hours on end.
M.A.C Pro Longwear Concealer
P2,000, Lazada
UNDERRATED HOLY GRAIL
M.A.C Strobe Cream
The M.A.C Strobe Cream is renowned for its ability to impart a natural, dewy radiance to the skin. It’s infused with iridescent particles to create a subtle luminosity that catches the light without being glittery. It can be worn alone as a highlighter, mixed with foundation for an all-over glow, or even applied to the collarbone for a touch of shimmer. Beyond that, the M.A.C Strobe Cream also provides skincare benefits that enhance the overall appearance of the skin. Enriched with vitamins, green tea, and botanical extracts, it brightens and hydrates the skin, leaving it feeling refreshed and revitalized.
M.A.C Strobe Cream
P2,650, Rustan’s
EDITOR FAVORITE
M.A.C Pro Longwear Paint Pot
One of the reasons the M.A.C Pro Longwear Paint Pot stands out from other eyeshadow products is because of its texture. It’s creamy enough to glide smoothly on the eyelids and provide a smooth canvas for eyeshadow application, yet it sets to a matte finish that ensures your eyeshadow stays put all day long. Not to mention, it doesn’t just work wonders as an eyeshadow primer, but can also be used on its own as a cream eyeshadow or even as an eyeliner when applied with an angled liner brush.
In terms of pigmentation, its color payoff is rich and intense, making it ideal to use as an eyeshadow base to enhance the vibrancy and longevity of your eyeshadow looks. Plus, with a wide range of shades to choose from, there’s a Paint Pot to suit every skin tone and eyeshadow preference.
