Review: MAC Prep + Prime Skin Refined Zone Treatment

Place Purchased:  MAC Store, Fashion Valley Mall, San Diego CA.

Price: $23.00

Advertised as: "An oil-free emulsion that helps conceal visible pores while controlling oil and shine."

I have been battling with my oily skin for years.  This has lead me to try a plethora of products.  I've tried an Avon version of oil control - total waste of money.  It did not have what it takes to battle my oily skin!  I've also tried Clinique, and a few from Sephora (can't remember the brands off hand).  The point is, I've tried a lot!  The MAC tech recommended this for my oily areas.  For me, it's my T zone, plus my chin and cheeks.  I guess pretty much all over if I think about it now!  Since purchasing this product, I've used it a few times and have been very happy with the results.

Pros:  Controls even my oily skin for most, if not all, of the time my make up is on.  So let's say at least 8 hrs, give or take.  Just a dab will do ya.

Cons: It's a small bottle, so use sparingly.  As oily as my skin is, I am lucky I don't wear make up everyday, or I would have to order this by the case!

Final Result:  LOVE IT!  Keeping this one on my must have list.  I won't try any others unless this no longer works for me.

Review: MAC 170 SYNTHETIC ROUNDED SLANT BRUSH

Place Purchased:  Bloomingdales at Fashion Valley Mall, San Diego CA.

Price: $35.00

I have around 4-5 MAC brushes now, but I felt I had to add this one to my collection because it gives your foundation an air brushed look.  I have 2 other foundation brushes by MAC, and this one is my favorite.  It's advertised as: "A brush that applies, buffs out and blends thick creams and liquids." It does a splendid job.  It's thick, with short slanted bristles.

Pros:  Gives your face foundation an air brushed look.  Good coverage.

Cons:  $35.00 is a bit steep for a brush, so it's not something everyone will spring for.  However, if you just get to choose 1 brush for foundation, I would choose this one.  I wish I had bought this one first, I would not have purchased the other 2 I have.

Final Result:  LOVE IT!  It's my favorite foundation brush.

Review: MAC Charged Water Skin Hydrating Mist

Place Purchased:  MAC Store, Fashion Valley Mall, San Diego CA.

Price: $25.00

I had a big important business meeting and wanted to look my best.  I had "ok" make up, but I wanted great make up for this important event.  I chose MAC due to it's reputation in the industry, and I've dabbled with a few items in the past.  That day, I walked out with $280.00 worth of products! Needless to say, I've got a lot of great MAC items to review.  Well maybe "a lot" is a bit of an over statement, because at their prices, you aren't going home with a grocery bag full of stuff.

I wasn't sure why I needed this charged water, but I bought it anyway.  I'm glad I did.  The MAC tech advised me to use it before applying anything to my skin, then once again when I was done with the final powder.  

I have oily skin, so the "before" isn't really necessary to hydrate my skin.  I found that spraying the charged water again after the finishing powder is applied, gives my skin a natural look, instead of the dry powdery look I normally obtain.  Some might even say "dewy".  

Pros:  Perfect for all skin types.  Gives a more natural look to your finished make up, especially if you have powdery or dry skin.

Cons:  It's a bit pricey, so use sparingly.

Final Result:  LOVE IT!  This one will remain on my must have list.