With the serum foundation craze not losing any steam in the last year, I've had so many formulas cross my desk. In fact over the last couple of weeks I've had three on rotation for testing, and so far the Stila Aqua Glow Serum Foundation is by far my favourite! If you've got dehydrated, dry or textured skin you might want to keep reading...
Stila's Aqua Glow Serum Foundation claims to be a 'An ultra-lightweight, ionized, water-based foundation with buildable and natural-looking coverage'. It's infused with what the brand claims is an Electrolyte Balance System comprised of ionized water, advanced hyaluronic acid, and essential minerals in a serum formula that nourishes skin and boosts radiance. Stila also claims 12 hour wear with Aqua Glow, as well as multi-reflective pigments that optically smooth the skin's surface, as well as reduce pores, fine lines and imperfections.
Aqua Glow comes in a matte metallic gold glass bottle with a pipette style dispenser that you shake well before use, which is incredibly common in serum formula foundations. Unlike other serum foundations, the texture of this was a bit more airy and not as liquidy, which I actually prefer (think Chanel Vitalumiere Aqua in terms of texture). I instantly noticed that the shade I have (Light) is very yellow based which is refreshing given how many companies make all their fair and light toned foundations with pink undertones. There are 10 shades in the range currently and they thankfully range from very fair to very deep. Light was the perfect match for my NC20-25 complexion.
I found a soft buffing brush that isn't too dense the perfect tool for getting flawless application when it comes to Stila Aqua Glow. The formula moved easily over my skin with with primer and without and I instantly noticed a smoothing effect with thrilled me to no end, since I've struggled with serum foundations showing texture on my face.
In terms of coverage, I find this very buildable, with a solid medium coverage on first application. It covered up any redness I had in my cheeks and chin, and blended seamlessly around the nose and eyebrows (my frequent cakey places). I have dry skin, and this glided over it beautifully, and then settled down with a nice satin radiance to it without needing powder (though I did try it out with powder to confirm it wouldn't oxidize the foundation, cake up the texture or cause gathering to which it passed all the tests!).
This foundation was given some mighty big claims, but as far as I am concerned it knocked them all out of the park! This wears so beautifully on my skin (yes, it makes the 12 hour mark!) and makes me look like I was born incredibly even and radiant tone to my complexion. Basically, it's a great skin day in a bottle and I am so here for that! LOVE!
The Quicklist:
Bottle: glass
Size: 1 fl oz
Formula: liquid
Price: $59 CND
Finish: satin
Dispenser: pipette/dropper
Longevity: 12+ hours
Fragrance: non detectable
Dimethicone: yes
Paraben Free : Yes as well as sulphates and phthalates
Have you tried Stila Aqua Glow Serum Foundation? (or any serum foundations?) Let me know in the comments below!
