Preparation priorities: MAC Cosmetics launches next-gen skincare range for makeup enhancement

05 Jan 2023 --- MAC Cosmetics has taken its Skin Artistry segment, which leverages skin looks for different complexions, to new heights with Hyper Real high-performance skincare to improve skin and enhance makeup. The premise behind the range is that prepping before a makeup routine is the “holy grail” for healthy skin.

“As all makeup artists will agree, the secret to the perfect makeup is prepping with the perfect skincare. The Hyper Real Serumizer creates the smoothest canvas to apply makeup while delivering the perfect mix of specialist ingredients to give you the best-looking skin instantly and over time,” says Dominic Skinner, senior artist at MAC.

The range features a serum, balm and oil. Hyper Real Serumizer Skin Balancing hydration serum is a serum moisturizer hybrid that balances and improves skin texture and strengthens the skin barrier for soft, radiant skin, which is a good basis for applying makeup.

The fortifying Hyper Real SkinCanvas Balm moisturizing cream and Hyper Real Fresh Canvas cleansing oil complement the ultimate makeup prepped skin, as envisioned by MAC.

Matrix of beautifying ingredients
The “serumizer” and balm are powered by MAC’s Pro-4 Power Infusion Matrix, featuring Japanese peony extract, skin-refining niacinamide, hydrating and plumping hyaluronic acid and restorative ceramides. 

Peony extract improves skin radiance and provides the skin a natural glow over time. Niacinamide increases cell turnover and refines skin textures. It also reduces dullness. Hyaluronic acid has intense moisturizing properties, while ceramides improve the skin’s barrier strength and facilitate moisture retention.Hyper Real Serumizer Skin Balancing Hydration Serum helps improve skin texture.

Designed to be used with or without makeup, the “serumizer” is infused with a blend of ultra-fine, light-diffusing pearlescent particles. It is non-greasy and non-pilling. 

The “skin canvas balm” soothes and presents against visible irritation and moisturizers for 24 hours. Mango and avocado butters help to leave skin feeling soft, nourished and conditioned.  

Additionally, the “canvas cleansing oil” gently removes stubborn makeup, pollutants and micro dust and softens the skin. The cleanser also maintains the skin’s moisture balance and improves its texture. It contains Japanese peony extract, Tsubaki, Jojoba, sunflower seed oils and Vitamin E.

“I love how all three products provide instant smoothness on their own, but when combined, it’s magical. For drier skin types or skin that needs an extra boost of soothing hydration, I like to blend Hyper Real SkinCanvas Balm on top of Hyper Real Serumizer,” says Rumiko Ikeda Harris, senior artist at MAC Japan. 

Meanwhile, Perfect Corp, MAC Cosmetics and SoPost have partnered to leverage artificial intelligence so consumers can match makeup shades online and then sample MAC’s Studio Fix Fluid Foundation at home. This collaboration is the latest in the trend of using tech to “virtually try on” makeup. 

Performance results
The products were tested on people of all skin complexions. After the first use, panelists demonstrated a more than 161% increase in hydration and more than 71% stronger skin barrier. After four weeks, 85% confirmed their makeup looked fresh all day and wore better for longer. 

The products are developed in FSC-certified, recyclable cartons, and MAC has a responsible sourcing protocol for its signature star ingredients – Japanese peony extract.

Edited by Inga de Jong