Foundation sticks have certainly become a thing in recent makeup trends. I haven’t tried many but the one I have tried, the Lancome Teint Idole Makeup Stick, I absolutely love and will always repurchase.
Today, I bring you a review of the Smashbox Studio Skin Shaping Foundation in the shade 4.2. It’s a brilliant multitasking makeup stick with foundation on one end and a contour shade on the other end.
My skin type
Oily, acne scarring on cheeks and chin
How I use it
On sight, I knew the shade 4.2 would one a smidge too light for my summer skin, but come winter time, the shade will likely be a very good match. I apply the foundation end from the stick to places I need it most. This includes the location of my acne scars, cheeks and chin, and I also used it under the eyes but found that I still needed to use concealer as this did not suffice as an under eye concealer for me. For best results, I applied a setting powder after blending in the foundation and then used the contour end to sculpt. The results were less than impressive using the foundation and contour one after the other and without any setting powder. On its own without setting powder I found that the product separating midday. This was surprising to me because the foundation stick is quite creamy, especially the foundation end. However it transforms into a powder almost immediately after application.
What I like about it
I like the idea and innovative nature of the product from packaging and design to the texture and consistency of the product itself.For that reason, it does bring me more joy to use than it would if it was just a foundation stick on its own. I love multitasking products and how convenient they are and this one is no exception.
What could be better
I think the brand should work on the formula. While the product doesn’t cater to any particular skin type, I find that someone with more normal to dry skin will appreciate the formula more. I can’t use this product without a setting powder. This is a legit medium coverage foundation and does not cover my acne scars on its own without concealer. I can’t take anything away from the product for that as the brand does market it as medium coverage. In addition, while I thought the transformation from cream to powder was impressive, it became hard to blend if I took my time doing it.
Joy Factor
On a scale of 1-10, this foundation is a 7. I reach for it a lot because of its multitasking nature but the actual results can use some work.
Where to indulge
Sephora | Ulta | Nordstrom | Smashbox | Macy’s | Dilliards
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