Makeup

YSL All Hours Foundation Review: The Long-Wear Classic

In this comprehensive review, we’ll take an in-depth look at the YSL All Hours Foundation, a product that has been a staple in the high-end makeup world for years. Yves Saint Laurent is known for delivering a luxurious makeup line, and the All Hours Foundation is a prime example of their commitment to quality. Let’s explore its features, benefits, and considerations for those considering adding it to their makeup routine.

Introduction to YSL All Hours Foundation

Yves Saint Laurent’s makeup line has earned its place as a favorite among beauty enthusiasts, thanks to iconic products like lipsticks, foundations, and their distinctive concealer pen. Many makeup aficionados have personal connections with YSL products, often starting their journey by borrowing or using their mother’s YSL concealer. The brand’s reputation for flawless coverage and longevity has been upheld over the years.

The Luxurious Standard of YSL Beauty

The YSL All Hours Foundation is a reflection of the brand’s commitment to luxury and excellence. However, it’s important to note that achieving a flawless finish with this foundation requires more effort than some other products. It’s not necessarily beginner-friendly, so even if you invest in this high-end option, having a solid understanding of makeup basics is essential to unlock its full potential.

Evolving Foundation Trends

The world of makeup is constantly evolving, and foundation trends have shifted from dry matte formulas to dewy, glowing finishes. Preferences vary widely, and what works for one person might not suit another. Foundations play a unique role as they define the canvas for other makeup products, making proper application vital to the overall look’s success.

YSL All Hours Foundation Features

The YSL All Hours Foundation is formulated for individuals seeking a full-coverage foundation with a matte finish. YSL claims that this foundation effectively maintains an oil-free appearance while preventing natural oils from causing patchiness throughout the day. When applied correctly, the foundation offers lasting power without the discomfort of feeling wet. Its finish is akin to a second skin, sometimes even delivering a subtle radiant glow.

This foundation excels at concealing imperfections and maintaining its coverage for extended periods. Unlike some competitors, the YSL All Hours Foundation manages to provide these benefits without clogging pores. While some users have reported that the foundation might make pores appear larger, individual experiences can vary.

Who Should Use the YSL All Hours Foundation?

Despite being labeled as a matte foundation, the YSL All Hours is remarkably versatile across various skin types. It doesn’t overly dry the skin or break down in the presence of oils. Many users consider it a “magical” foundation due to its adaptability to different skin types, including sensitive or aging skin.

Choosing the Right Shade

Selecting the correct foundation shade is essential for achieving a polished look. The challenge of shade matching is heightened for those who shop online. Fortunately, the Findation website offers a solution. By using an extensive database of tones and undertones from various foundation products, Findation recommends accurate shade matches based on past experiences.

For those uncertain about their shade, visiting a store that stocks the YSL All Hours Foundation or similar products can provide the opportunity to swatch and test different shades. Some stores also offer sample-sized foundations for testing, allowing users to determine whether the product suits their needs before committing to a full-sized bottle.

Packaging and Application

The YSL All Hours Foundation features a pump-based applicator. While generally convenient, one drawback is that the pump may struggle to reach the product at the bottom of the bottle after prolonged use. The foundation itself comes in a frosted matte glass bottle, which exudes luxury. However, the packaging’s aesthetics might not fully justify the price, and the user experience isn’t particularly unique.

Using and Applying YSL All Hours Foundation

When it comes to using and applying the YSL All Hours Foundation, there are several key points to keep in mind for achieving the best results:

Dispensing the Foundation:

Use the pump designed for the foundation to dispense the product. Typically, one pump should be sufficient for a full application. However, if you desire more coverage, the foundation is buildable, so you can layer it as needed.

Coverage and Lasting Power:

Even a small amount of the foundation goes a long way, and most users find that it adequately covers the entire face and any imperfections. The YSL All Hours Foundation is known for its long-lasting power, living up to its promise of all-day wear.

Primer Recommendation:

YSL suggests starting with their All Hours Primer before applying the foundation. This primer ensures a matte finish throughout the day and can make a noticeable difference in the foundation’s performance. While YSL recommends using products from the same line, you can mix and match with your favorite primers as well.

Application Tools:

YSL’s user guide recommends using their All Hours beauty blender to apply the foundation. However, personal preference plays a significant role in choosing application tools. Some people prefer using a foundation brush in combination with a liquid foundation. Experimentation is key to finding what works best for you.

Beauty Blenders vs. Brushes:

Beauty blenders can absorb varying amounts of foundation depending on its consistency, while brushes might leave streaks due to bristle texture. Finding the right tool for your foundation type can ensure an even and flawless application.

Setting Your Look:

Like with concealers, many individuals choose to set their foundation with powder for extra coverage or to bake and set everything in place. YSL offers their own All Hours Setting Powder, designed to help set the foundation and maintain a matte finish.

Price Point and Alternatives

The YSL All Hours Foundation is widely available in stores such as Sephora, high-end perfume shops, and department stores. Prices can vary depending on the retailer and location. For instance, in Europe, it typically ranges from 40 to 50 euros, while the average price in the United States is around $54. Occasional discounts from retailers allow you to acquire this luxury foundation at a relatively average price point.

Pros and Cons of YSL All Hours Foundation

Pros:

  • Very transfer-resistant, making it suitable for various activities and environments.
  • A small amount of product goes a long way, maximizing the value.
  • Compatible with most primers, offering flexibility in your makeup routine.
  • Suited for all skin types, making it versatile and accessible.

Cons:

  • May oxidize (change color) without a primer underneath to control oiliness.
  • Strong fragrance, which could be a concern for those sensitive to scents.

Alternatives to YSL All Hours Foundation

  • Estee Lauder Double Wear: A popular high-end foundation known for its long-wearing capabilities. Some users even consider it superior to YSL All Hours, and it might be slightly more affordable.
  • Maybelline Super Stay Longwear Liquid Foundation: An excellent drugstore alternative with impressive wear time and transfer resistance. It’s widely praised and available in most stores that carry makeup products.
  • La Mer The Soft Fluid Long Wear Foundation: While luxurious, it comes with a higher price tag. Its heavyweight list of ingredients offers a premium experience, but it might not be worth the cost for everyone.
  • L’Oréal 24 Hour Fresh Wear Foundation: A highly regarded drugstore option that provides long-lasting matte coverage. It’s underrated and offers excellent value for its performance.
  • Dior Forever Skin: A well-known foundation in the makeup world, appreciated for its matte coverage and staying power. It’s a tried-and-true choice, especially for events or humid conditions.

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