MAC Prep & Prep BB Compact in Refined Golden - Swatch and Review

Last week, I went to a MAC event at my local Nordstrom and I was able to learn a few things about different ways on how to apply face products that help with highlight and contouring and this was one of the MAC artist's favorite new products released by MAC.

This is the MAC Prep and Prime BB Beauty Balm Compact SPF 30 in Refined Golden.

First off, this is incredibly easy to apply. I feel like you cannot overdo this product because of the texture and how little product my brush picks up. I use the Zoeva 126 - Luxe Cheek Finish brush (post coming soon!) and it's AMAZING for this product.

According to MAC, there are 12 shades in this range and they are meant for actual foundation or, in this case, for bronzing up the skin. The cost is $30 for 8 g of product which I think is pretty solid bang for your buck.

In the picture above, the color of the Refined Golden in the pan seems more red than it really is. The natural sunlight messed with the lighting in room but the picture below is a more accurate representation of what the Refined Golden actually looks like; which MAC describes as "finely spun golden bronze with a soft pearl finish".

Do not be alarmed with the "pearl finish" aspect of it. Once applied to the skin, it is more of a satin finish and can become matte if layered on top with a matte contour or bronzer powder.

What is truly cool about this product is how buildable it is and you don't end up looking like an oompa-loompa. On my skin, which is a light golden tan -ish, and this doesn't disappear once I apply it on my skin!! :D.

I definitely recommend checking this out! Go to a store or counter and ask for a demo. That way you get to see how they would apply it on you and you can decide whether you like it or not. It's crazy easy to apply if you have a brush that helps apply and blend at the same time :).

What do you think about this product? Or used anything like it?

I'd love to know your thoughts :),

Bianca

LOOKING FOR NARS ITA NO. 21 BRUSH?!

Hey everyone,

I am here with a quick post talking about the very much coveted NARS Ita brush that Casey Holmes (itsbl0ndie) and Jaclyn Hill - among others - have made veryyy famous.

You are probably thinking "I cannot find that son of B anywhere, wtf!!". I know, I was thinking the EXACT same thing.

So here is what I know thanks to one of my friends that work at the NARS counter at my local Nordstrom.

IT'S COMING BACK!!

In late March/early April, NARS will be rereleasing their entire brush line (which includes that Ita brush).

I strongly suggest going to a NARS counter and pre-ordering one. That way you are guaranteed to get one (this is what the sales associate told me). Or you can order from NARS.com when it's released or run the risk of paying more than you have to (aka on eBay).

You can bet that NARS will be releasing a very limited amount of the Ita brushes because sooo many people are willing to invest in that brush.

Side note: there are TWO Ita brushes, No. 21 and No. 28. The No. 28 is a wider version of the No. 21. Google it if you are interested. So you want to make sure you are ordering the right one.

Okay folks, I hope you found that helpful!

Talk to you all soon,
Bianca