If you have oily skin, you possibly know the struggle of keeping your makeup looking shine free. Even though there are some setting sprays which aims to give long lasting shine-free finish, it is not always the case. When I saw a snapshot of MAC Prep + Prime Fix+ Matte on Instagram, I knew that I had to try it. I’ve been using MAC Prep + Prime Fix+ for years, which is more for dehydrated/dry skin to get dewy finish. Dewy look is not exactly what you might want when you have oily skin but knowing that MAC Prep + Prime Fix+ actually delivers, I had high hopes with MAC Prep + Prime Fix+ Matte.
MAC Prep + Prime Fix+ Matte is a lightweight mattifying spray which controls shine and oil on the surface without disturbing the makeup. The formula contains powders, silica and other oil-absorbing agents to help set makeup, rebalance and mattify skin. Holding makeup in place, controlling oil and reducing shine… I can say it delivers all of them. Am I happy? Definitely! When I know I will have a long day, then this spray is what I opt for.
The first time it went through a real test was at a summer wedding I attended and it was over 25 degrees. I was ready by 9 am and got back around midnight. By then my skin would look like a shiny mirror, however, surprisingly my makeup was still looking neat and only had a little bit of shine around my T-zone, which is acceptable after a long day. That was the day I knew MAC Prep + Prime Fix+ Matte will be one of the staples of my routine. Once the spray dries, it leaves my makeup looking matte and it stays that way for hours without getting shiny. If you aren’t too into the matte look, you would apply finishing powders like Hourglass to prevent the matte look.
There’s one thing you have to be aware of… If it MAC Prep + Prime Fix+ Matte is not shaken properly, it WILL leave white marks. It will make you look like dalmatians and ruin your makeup. The bad thing is, you can’t easily wipe off those white marks, you have to rub it hard that it might be easier to just remove your makeup and redo it. I don’t know whether it is a formula related issue or the nozzle is not small enough.
My first attempt was a complete disaster, so if you end up buying it, be aware of it! I make sure to shake it at least 15-20 seconds then test it on my hand to see if the mixture is well mixed and sprays evenly. If yes then I spray it on my face, if not then shake it more before I apply it. I know it sounds like a real pain, but the result is worth all that effort. You can reapply as needed to mattify the makeup.
MAC Prep + Prime Fix+ Matte is £19 for 100 ml. It holds the makeup in place for hours, even when it is boiling hot outside and reduces the shine. It delivers everything you would expect from a mattifying spray. Would I recommend it? If you have oily skin, then I would recommend it. If you have dehydrated/normal skin, I’d recommend MAC Prep + Prime Fix+ or Pixi Makeup Fixing Mist more as the matte one might make your skin look dull.
Have you tried MAC Prep + Prime Fix+ Matte or MAC Prep + Prime Fix+? Is there any mattifying spray you would highly recommend?
