Hi friends!
A while back I wrote about how there wasn’t really any new makeup that inspired me to make purchases. All that changed when I saw Rihanna’s iconic makeup tutorial. In that moment, witnessing greatness, I knew I just had to get my hands on something from this new collection.
On an unrelated sidebar, I was tipped off about Laneige finally offering their famous BB foundation with “expanded” shade extensions by my best friend, Catherine. So, I also had to cop it (“cop” it, is slang for “grab” it).
While the two products are from separate brands, I thought I would try out both at the same time and give you guys a comprehensive wear test.
Fenty Beauty Killawatt Foil Freestyle Highlighter Duo: Mimosa Sunrise/Sangria Sunset
Packaging: 5/5
The box itself is a flashy and scintillating beauty. It’s the prequel to an equally impressive compact. I say impressive even though the packaging remains consistent with other items in the collection, like “Trophy Wife” – A sleek and lightweight geometric compact. Evidently, there are two shades and an equal amount of product for both, with 2 x 3.5g.
Swatches/Pigment: 4.5/5
When swatched with both fingers and a brush, I picked up a decent amount of pigment. The pigment is very packed together and not loose. Overall, the swatches are very impressive and the colour payoff is incredible.
Application: 4/5
While the brush picks up a lot of pigment, I noticed the Sangria Sunset shade applied nicer than the Mimosa Sunrise shade. I wouldn’t say buttery but it applied pretty smoothly and it was definitely buildable. That being said, a little goes a long way.
Lasting power: 4/5
So you guys are in for a treat, I tested if this duo was sweat proof (because I know y’all want to be poolside chilin’ with a mimosa and sangria). I can safely say, that these beauties lasted through my zumba class, even with a $6 eyeshadow primer. It did fade a bit, but it did not smear or smudge.
Overall: 4/5
I am pretty impressed with the quality and the way this product works. The colours are stunning on my darker skin and I look forward to creating some fun summer looks. My only complaint is that I wish the highlighter was as blinding as trophy wife.
Laneige BB Cushion Hydra Radiance – Cacao SPF 50
Packaging: 4/5
The packaging is very chic and lightweight. It’s all white with notes of silver, and that is terrifying because foundation is messy. Still, it is nice to look at and easy to toss in your bag. Not to mention, it comes with a free refill. Score!
Swatches: 3/5
I did pick this product up in store, so I was able to swatch and easily find my “shade.” Mind you, there aren’t many shades to choose from, so I chose the darkest shade available. It definitely isn’t an exact match, but it’s very close. While I applaud Laneige for releasing more shades, this shade range is almost as appalling as the Tarte Shape Tape foundation. Even Innis-free, another South Korean brand, has a wider range, with 14 shades compared to Laneige’s 6 shades.
Application: 3.5/5
I’ll be honest, at first I was disappointed. The coverage is light with one application to the entire face. However, I learned that the foundation is buildable without becoming cakey. That being said, it is not a full coverage foundation by any meens. I had to combine with a concealer to really get a flawless canvas. Like a lot of South Korean cushions, the effect is meant to give a natural blurring effect on the skin. As the name implies, the application leaves the skin looking dewy and radiant (but not ideal if you sweat a lot).
Lasting power: 3/5
My skin is primarily oily in the summer, so I always opt for matte foundations. I really wanted to try this BB cushion because as the weather heats up, I tend to go for less makeup. While this did not have the power to combat my oily T-zone, it most definitely held up for a long time and did not streak. If you’re oily like me, I would only suggest wearing this if you’re not running around in the heat.
Overall: 3.5/5
It took me a bit to warm up to this product, but I really like it for lighter days. It makes me feel naturally airbrushed and it protects my skin from the sun, what more could you ask for? My only ragrets are that this product is not matte or full coverage and the shade range is horrendous. C’est la vie. Hopefully, all these huge makeup companies will finally get on board.
Well, that’s all, folks. Hopefully this either drove you towards Sephora (yay capitalism) or towards church to pray for better options. Did you guys know about Laneige’s new “shades” ? Feel free to share your thoughts in the comments.
Don’t sweat the small things, it will ruin your makeup.
– Meens
by all meens: 