CRYSTAL-BRIGHTNESS FOR 12 HOURS
with new-generation aura-inside™ technology

Launched in 2011 and already a best-seller, Maqui Blanc Miracle Compact Foundation is upgraded in 2012 to incorporate Lancôme’s latest technological advances in both makeup and skincare and becomes Maqui Blanc Miracle Compact Crystal Brightening Creator.

For the first time, especially designed for Asian women, Aura-Inside™ technology is enriched with a brand new purple light essence. Purple being directly complementary to yellow on the colour spectrum, this unprecedented light essence helps effectively neutralize the dull, yellow undertones; one of the main concern of Asian women, lighting up the complexion.

As a result, this unique quadruple light synergy creates a dazzling aura of crystal brightness that seems to come from within.

In another first, the beautifying effect of Aura-Inside™ technology is supplemented by specific ingredients selected from Lancôme’s Blanc Expert whitening skincare line, notably Rose and Mint extracts. They are combined with anti-oxidant and moisturizing Lotus extract, long valued in traditional Chinese medicine.

This ultra-complete formulation, unprecedented for compact foundation, is reinforced by an exceptional 12-hour staying power. Optimized resistance to shine and humidity – a must in the exceptionally hot and humid conditions of the Asian summer – is provided by advanced absorbent pigments and fillers.

To verify the ultimate wear of its new formula, Lancôme asked Asian women in Singapore to test Maqui Blanc Miracle Compact Crystal Brightening Creator during the month of July, the most challenging time of the year.

81.6% of women agreed that it controlled shine during the day, resisting sweat and sebum, while 89.3% said it reduced the yellowish tone of the complexion. Maqui Blanc Miracle Compact is also proven to visibly reduce the total area of pores by 43%.

The wonderfully fine, lightweight powder texture of Maqui Blanc Miracle Compact Crystal Brightening Creator is ideally complemented by an upgraded duo sponge. The soft velvet sponge side, which is a delicate pinky beige in colour, lends itself to smooth, easy blending. The other side, which is white, has a silky, fluffy texture that is ideal for buffing skin to a flawless, pore-free finish.

PACKAGING

This newer version of Maqui Blanc Miracle Compact Crystal Brightening Creator is presented in an elegant luxurious case which, at launch, is available in a prestige limited edition with a delicate motif inspired by Rose spring blossom traced in dazzling silver on the lid.

The expanded colour palette encompasses 8 shades specifically developed by Lancôme after in-depth consultation with women in Japan and China.

Complementing its new compact foundation, Lancôme offers award-winning Maqui Blanc Miracle Natural Brightening Creator Fluid Foundation SPF 26 PA++. Both suit all skin types, even sensitive skins.

SHADE

I have been using this compact for quite some time but I haven’t got around doing a proper review of it. The above pictures were taken last year and I hope the above product descriptions extracted from the brand has helped you understand the technology behind this compact.

Without further ado, I would love to share some thoughts about this product with you.

I like the slim packaging and I also like that fact that it comes in a white casing – say goodbye to fingerprints. Like the Lancôme Teint Miracle Compact Foundation, it also comes with a convenient refill.

I am matched to O-02 which I think is similar to my Teint Miracle range BO-02. The shade matches me quite well. It’s a little lighter than my natural skin colour at first but it eventually settles down to match. I like that it stays fresh all day without turning dull.

APPLICATION

With compact foundations, I like to apply a thin layer of BB Cream or Tinted Moisturizer under as a base. This will provide more coverage for those who needs – and I do. Keeping skin well moisturized or having a creamy base helps the powder foundation adheres better onto the skin – especially helpful if you have dry patches.

For those with dry flaky skin, try to avoid using powder foundation.

1. Clean, bear face with only skincare – skin tone is uneven, redness coming through around the nose and chin, and dullness around the nose
2. Apply a thin layer of Lancôme UV Expert SPF 50 PA+++ BB Complete with a stippling brush
3. After applying BB Cream – skin looks brighten and more even toned
4. Load sponge with powder foundation and gently pat onto skin, do not drag – after application, use a big powder brush to lightly dust off any access

The completed look.

THE OVERVIEW

I like the simplicity and quick application of powder foundation especially for the mornings because less blending is required compared to a liquid foundation. If I were to apply concealer, I do it after BB Cream, before powder foundation but strangely, I usually don’t apply concealer when using powder foundations.

Coverage of this compact is pretty good. I would say sheer to medium and it piles on without being cakey. I touch up using the same compact throughout the day too.

This compact doesn’t seem to emphasize pores and it smooths out my skin’s surface. It lasted pretty well, for about 6-8 hours with blotting in between. Am impressed with its lasting powder because at end of the day, I still look fresh. I would rate its oil control slightly above average.

I WOULD RECOMMEND THIS PRODUCT TO

Possibly one of the best compact powder foundation I have tried with skincare benefits, decent coverage, above average lasting powder and oil control.

I have combination, sensitive skin and this product didn’t break me out. My T-zone is particularly oily while my forehead, chin and jaw areas can get a little dry – some times flaky. This product didn’t emphasize my dryness and I like that it makes my skin look smoother than it actually is.

Definitely a “perk me up” kind of product because of its brightening effects.

I would recommend this to you if you need something quick and easy for morning rush, looking for something that has skincare benefits and instantly brightens.

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Maqui Blanc Miracle Compact Crystal Brightening Creator is available at all Lancôme Beauty Counters. Refill is priced at S$65 and Limited Edition Case is priced at S$27.

Thank you for reading.