Neither! Your foundation should match your skin exactly for the most natural finish.
- If you want a brightening effect, go half a shade lighter (but never too light, or it looks ashy).
- If you’re worried about oxidation (foundation darkening over time), test the shade and let it sit for a few minutes before deciding.
- Always blend down to your neck to avoid a foundation line!

Need a match? Visit a MAC store or use the MAC Foundation Finder online!"

Foundation is the base of any makeup routine, designed to even out skin tone, provide coverage, and create a smooth canvas for the rest of your makeup. Available in various formulas and finishes, foundation can be sheer, buildable, or full coverage, depending on your desired look.

For a flawless application, start with a hydrated, primed base using MAC’s Hyper Real Serumizer™ or Prep + Prime Fix+. Use a brush for full coverage (like the 170 Synthetic Rounded Slant Brush), a sponge for a seamless blend, or fingertips for a natural, skin-like finish. Apply in light layers, starting from the center of the face and blending outward. Set with Studio Fix Powder Plus Foundation or Fix+ Spray for long-lasting wear.

Finding your perfect MAC foundation shade is all about knowing your undertone, skin type, and desired coverage.
Start by identifying whether your undertone is cool (pink, red, or blue), warm (golden, yellow, or olive), or neutral (a balance of both).
Then, use MAC’s Foundation Shade Finder or visit a MAC counter for a professional shade match.
If you already wear foundation from another brand, you can use online shade-matching tools like Findation to discover your closest MAC match.

Determine your undertone first—cool, warm, or neutral—then find a shade that disappears seamlessly into your skin. The best match should blend into your jawline without looking too light or dark. Visiting a MAC counter for a shade match is always a great idea, or you can use MAC’s Virtual Try-On Tool.

For combination skin, Studio Fix Fluid SPF 15 is a go-to—it’s oil-controlling yet hydrating, offering a matte, long-wear finish. If you prefer a dewy, breathable look, Studio Radiance Serum-Powered Foundation provides weightless hydration while still giving great coverage.

Liquid Foundation – Versatile, available in different finishes and coverage levels. Try Studio Fix Fluid SPF 15 for matte or Studio Radiance Serum Foundation for a luminous glow.
Powder Foundation – Ideal for oily skin, providing a velvety, matte finish. Studio Fix Powder Plus Foundation offers buildable coverage.
Cream Foundation – Rich and hydrating, best for dry skin or full-coverage looks. Studio Tech Foundation delivers a soft-matte, weightless feel.
Stick Foundation – Portable and easy to apply, offering buildable coverage. Try Studio Fix Soft Matte Foundation Stick for quick, on-the-go application.
Tinted Moisturizer/BB Cream – Lightweight, sheer coverage with skincare benefits. Studio Radiance Face & Body Foundation is a MAC artist staple for a natural, dewy finish.

A satin finish is the perfect balance between matte and dewy—not too shiny, not too flat. It gives the skin a soft, natural radiance while still providing a smooth, velvety texture. MAC Studio Tech Foundation delivers a satin finish that looks fresh and skin-like, making it a great choice for those who want a natural yet polished complexion.