This in-depth review focuses on the YSL All Hours Foundation, a popular choice among makeup enthusiasts. The author, who has owned the foundation for a considerable period, provides a comprehensive assessment, covering everything from initial impressions to long-term wear and performance. The review aims to help readers make an informed decision about whether this high-end foundation is the right choice for them.
Introduction: My Long-Term Relationship with YSL All Hours
I've had the YSL All Hours Foundation for quite some time – long enough to truly understand its capabilities and limitations. This isn't a fleeting first impression; it's a seasoned review based on consistent use over an extended period. I purchased it shortly after its initial release, giving me ample opportunity to test it under various conditions and with different skincare routines. This review will delve into the details, covering texture, coverage, longevity, shade range, and overall value for the price. We'll explore whether the hype surrounding this foundation lives up to its reputation.
YSL All Hours Foundation: Unpacking the Claims
The YSL All Hours Foundation boasts a number of key selling points: 24-hour wear, full coverage, a matte finish, and a comfortable, breathable feel. These are bold claims, particularly the 24-hour wear, which is rarely achievable for even the most high-performance foundations. My experience will assess the validity of these claims and offer insights into the reality of using this foundation on a daily basis.
Texture and Application:
The YSL All Hours Foundation has a unique texture. It’s not overly thick or heavy, yet it’s not watery either. It sits somewhere in the middle, offering a creamy consistency that blends beautifully. I prefer applying it with a damp beauty blender for the most seamless finish. A foundation brush also works well, but I find that the blender provides a more natural, airbrushed effect. Using fingers is possible, but it can be slightly more challenging to achieve an even application without streaking. The texture allows for buildable coverage, making it suitable for those who prefer a light, natural look or a more full-coverage, flawless finish.
Coverage and Finish:
The foundation delivers on its promise of full coverage. One layer provides a decent amount of coverage that evens out the skin tone and conceals minor blemishes. Building up to two or three layers can completely mask imperfections, such as redness, acne scars, or hyperpigmentation. However, the finish is not completely matte, as advertised. It leans more towards a satin-matte, meaning it has a subtle luminosity that prevents it from looking flat or cakey. This subtle sheen prevents the foundation from emphasizing fine lines or dry patches. It’s a happy medium that works well for various skin types, though those with very oily skin might still require a setting powder to control shine throughout the day.
Longevity and Wear:
The "24-hour wear" claim is, admittedly, a stretch. While the foundation is exceptionally long-lasting, it won't stay flawless for a full 24 hours without touch-ups. However, it’s certainly one of the most long-wearing foundations I've ever used. With a good primer and setting powder, I can easily get 8-10 hours of wear with minimal fading or creasing. After that, I might need to blot away excess oil and potentially touch up certain areas, particularly the T-zone. The longevity is impressive, especially for those with combination or oily skin. Those with dry skin might find the foundation slightly drying after many hours, so proper hydration and skincare are essential.