[Please note: This review is based on unpaid samples and may contain affiliate links.] January brings us the exciting launch of MAC’s Hyper Real Skincare line. I’ve had the opportunity to try out the Skin Canvas Balm and the Serumizer in advance, and my initial impression is that the Serumizer is likely to sell out very quickly. Despite the challenges presented by Covid, MAC has shown significant growth, and I believe the Hyper Real range will further contribute to this success, especially given their access to top formulators and production facilities as part of ELC. It’s interesting to note that MAC hasn’t labeled these products as primers, nor have they pursued an anti-aging angle, which they could have, considering the powerful ingredients they contain.
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Both the Skin Canvas Balm and Serumizer contain key ingredients such as Japanese peony extract, niacinamide, hyaluronic acid, and ceramides – which play a pivotal role in skincare. The Balm has a rich, glossy texture similar to Bobbi Brown’s Repair Cream and effectively retains moisture throughout the day without feeling heavy. It preserves moisture and doesn’t give a sense of tightness while being surprisingly lightweight.
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The Skin Canvas Balm is particularly effective as a makeup base, offering a soft, well-hydrated canvas for foundation application. If dryness has been a challenge for your foundation, this could be the solution. On the other hand, the Serumizer, with its gel-serum texture, may be better suited for those with oily or unpredictable skin – providing abundant moisture and smoothing benefits without any greasy residue.
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The Serumizer, as its name suggests, is a lighter alternative to the Balm, designed to maintain your makeup for 12 hours. In my experience with the Balm, it held up for around 8 hours and effectively prolonged the wear of my foundation. I was very pleased with how smoothly and comfortably my foundation sat over the base.
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Given MAC’s roots in makeup, it comes as no surprise that their serious approach to skincare aligns with its core principles. The Hyper Real collection serves as a makeup enhancer with radiance-boosting capabilities. Personally, I am drawn to the Balm for its immediate comforting and hydrating qualities. It imparts a silky softness to the skin throughout the day and offers protective benefits, especially during colder weather. While it’s too early to determine the full extent of its glow-enhancing properties, I sense a restorative quality in both the Serumizer and the Balm, particularly with the latter. Overall, I have no complaints whatsoever and find myself eager to incorporate it into my routine. Admittedly, it comes with a hefty price tag – the Serumizer is £58 and the Balm is £52. There’s also a cleanser in this line, but in my opinion, it’s not essential unless you prefer a fully coordinated routine. If you purchase the Balm, there’s a limited-time offer to receive a serum sample for free at checkout. The same applies if you purchase both products, but this offer is only valid until the 18th of January or while supplies last.
Transparency Disclosure
All products mentioned are provided to me as samples from brands and agencies unless otherwise stated. This post may contain affiliate links, but it is not affiliate driven.