Hey beautiful people! It’s your girl Jenna here, back with another in-depth product review. Today we’re diving into MAC’s latest complexion innovation: the Studio Fix Every-Wear All-Over Face Pen. This highly anticipated launch promises full coverage, long-wear, and waterproof performance in a convenient, clickable pen format. But does it live up to the hype? I’ve analyzed over 50 real customer reviews to bring you the tea. Grab your favorite beverage and let’s get into it!
First Impressions & Packaging
Right off the bat, the sleek black and silver packaging catches the eye. Several reviewers commented on how travel-friendly and purse-friendly the compact pen design is. As Angela noted, “it’s safe to carry around without having to worry about spillage.” The clickable dispenser also prevents messy mishaps, which MFH appreciated: “Not once has it been wasted being squeezed out across the room.”
However, a few customers found the pen complicated to use at first. Nydivine struggled to get the product out initially: “I just received it and unlocked it and I can’t get anything out. Been trying and trying and nothing!” But overall, the majority seemed to enjoy the portability and mess-free application the unique packaging provides.
Shade Range & Undertones
MAC is known for their extensive, inclusive shade ranges, and this foundation pen is no exception with 30 shades to choose from. However, a couple deeper-skinned reviewers had difficulty finding their perfect match. DeepOlive, who wears Studio Fix Fluid in C8, said “I took 2 stars off due to lack of shade match…NC42, NC44 pulled too pink on me. I tried NC45 but it pulled too orange.”
On the other end of the spectrum, some customers noticed the shades running slightly darker/more saturated compared to the brand’s other base products. EB1986 recommended “if you get this as a replacement [for Studio Fix Fluid], order a different color,” as her typical SFF shade looked ghostly in the pen formula.
Undertones were another sticking point, especially for olive complexions. “Hopefully M.A.C very soon makes this pen in colors suited for olive tones,” DeepOlive added. Meanwhile, tayloro1126 felt her shade “went on very yellow” at first, but ended up blending seamlessly into her skin.
The takeaway? Definitely get shade matched in-store if possible, and don’t be afraid to go a shade lighter than your usual MAC pick. The pigmentation is on point!
Formula & Coverage
The consensus is that the Studio Fix Pen packs a serious coverage punch in a surprisingly lightweight formula. Reviewers raved about the buildable medium-to-full coverage that still looks skin-like. It covered my red acne spot very well,” Liz shared, while Daisygirl gushed “This Studio Fix Every-Wear All-Over Face Pen is “OUTSTANDING!” The coverage is amazing, it doesn’t cake, and it gives the most amazing matte finish!
Those with mature skin also appreciated how the formula doesn’t settle into fine lines or wrinkles. G. noticed it “doesn’t magnify fine lines, pores and needs minimal touching up throughout wearing.” Full yet natural coverage seems to be the sweet spot this foundation hits.
However, some found the consistency a bit too thick when built up heavily. “It took 3 to 4 pumps to cover my face and blend,” tayloro1126 revealed. A few also felt it was better suited as a concealer than an all-over foundation. “Definitely a formula between foundation and concealer but I think it can be better used as a concealer than foundation!” was Alexis’ take. YMMV, but a little goes a long way with this potent base.
Lasting Power & Performance
So how does this foundation hold up throughout the day? Reviewers had mixed experiences. Some, like Slkgirl38, had great luck with longevity: “I work in retail and my face will look good even after my shift it lasts all day long with sweating most of the time it’s pretty waterproof imo!” Penny agreed: “I sweat a LOT and this sticks through it.”
But others found the long-wear and waterproof claims fell short, particularly in hot and humid conditions. “This product is NOT true to its deception,” Ms. Not Happy ranted after a trip to the Bahamas, “As we partied in the pool and the sun-beamed down on us mercilessly, this foundation began to melt like cheap Dollar Tree paint.” Michelle had a similar experience: “It definitely started to come off and transfer after one dip in the pool.”
The wear time averaged 6-8 hours with no touch-ups for most, but those putting it through the paces in sweatier situations may want to keep blotting sheets and the pen itself on hand for midday maintenance.
Blendability & Application Tips
“Blendable” was the top word used to describe this formula, with many calling out how smoothly and seamlessly it melds into the skin. Barbi’s husband even asked if she “had her makeup done professionally” while wearing this!
Reviewers experimented with various application methods, from fingers to brushes to sponges. “It took me a minute to get used to, but once I did I liked it,” tayloro1126 explained, “This seems to dry down very quickly so you need to work fast or do smaller sections.” The speedy dry down can be a pro or con depending on your skill level and desired coverage.
Those with dry skin noticed the formula could cling to patches or textured areas without proper prep. “Make sure to find a matching water based primer and not silicone,” Alexis advised. Cris found that “it did seem to set a little faster than I would have expected,” so having your moisturized, primed skin ready to go pre-application is key.
Several called out that the pen pairs beautifully with MAC’s iconic Studio Fix Powder for an airbrushed, full coverage finish. “It delivers excellent full coverage! I set it with Studio Fix Powder+Foundation, and voila! Perfection at last!” raved Daisygirl. If you’re a fan of the brand’s powder foundations, you’ll likely love this combo.
Comparisons to Other MAC Foundations
Studio Fix Fluid is the natural comparison for many MAC devotees testing this launch. Coco, who used SFF religiously for over 15 years, is now a total convert: “The coverage is just as good, but it feels SO much smoother. I also love how there’s less waste and I’m not struggling to get it all out.”
Long-time lovers of the brand’s discontinued Pro Longwear Nourishing Waterproof Foundation had more mixed feelings. Some, like Anna, feel “this product doesn’t even come close to the original formula.” Others, like Pamelastew22, enjoy the Studio Fix Pen but miss the tube packaging of Pro Longwear. “I was told the pen is the same formula and I really like the product. However the pen isn’t great. They’ve just found out how to sell less product for more money.”
At the end of the day, the Studio Fix Pen seems to hold its own in MAC’s complexion lineup. While die-hard Pro Longwear fans may not be impressed, those who enjoy the brand’s other foundations will likely find a lot to love with this one.
Pros & Cons
To summarize, here are the key pros and cons I noticed in my review analysis:
Pros:
- Buildable medium-to-full coverage
- Lightweight, blendable formula
- Extensive shade range
- Long-wearing for most
- Travel-friendly, hygienic packaging
- Pairs well with MAC’s Face & Body for a custom finish
Cons:
- Shades can run slightly dark/saturated
- Some found it lacking in olive undertones
- Can look heavy if overapplied
- Not as transfer-resistant/waterproof as claimed
- Some found shades inconsistent with other MAC foundations
- Easy to use up product quickly
The Verdict
So, is the MAC Studio Fix Every-Wear All-Over Face Pen worth the hype? For many, it seems to be a welcome addition to their foundation wardrobe, especially for on-the-go medium-to-full coverage. The clickable pen component is a smart, mess-free choice for travel or touch-ups.
However, devotees of the discontinued Pro Longwear formula may want to adjust their expectations, as the two aren’t exact dupes. This also may not be the best option for those seeking a truly transfer-proof, sweatproof base, as several reviewers experienced fading and separation in hot/humid conditions.
Personally, I think this is a fabulous choice for medium-to-full coverage lovers who want a buildable, lightweight formula that looks like skin and lasts through the workday. It’s especially ideal if you’re a fan of MAC’s Studio Fix franchise and enjoy pairing cream/liquid foundations with powders.
My top tips would be to prep the skin well pre-application, get shade matched in-store if possible (and maybe go a hair lighter than your typical MAC shade), and work in thin layers vs. going in with too much product at once. A little goes a long way! Start with a pump or two and build up only where needed.
I hope you found this in-depth review helpful! Let me know in the comments if you’ve tried the MAC Studio Fix Every-Wear All-Over Face Pen and what your experience has been. Until next time, stay beautiful!
xoxo, Jenna
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