The Foundation for the Foundation-Haters: The Giorgio Armani Maestro Fusion Foundation
When it comes to foundation I've always preferred a higher coverage, if you're going to wear it then do it properly. I've never needed a fuller coverage but I've liked it, like a safety blanket. So it's a little surprising that the foundation I can't get over is so light that's it's almost not even a foundation: the Giorgio Armani Maestro Fusion Foundation. Often overshadowed by that cult foundation (which I also adore), Maestro is the ideal foundation for anyone that wants something quick, easy and instantly perfecting. The formula is incredibly lightweight, a couple of drops blend out seamlessly in a matter or seconds. The pigment is suspended in an oil that evaporates throughout the day leaving behind the perfect finish. Of the foundations on offer Maestro Fusion is the most matte of the Armani collection, but don't let that deter you. Satin would be a more accurate description, leaving a smooth and slightly radiant finish to the skin. It works alongside the natural oils your skin produces to give a beautifully radiant look by 5pm, without looking greasy. The lasting power is impressive too, even by 9pm it's still hanging around and doesn't look that much worse for wear.
This is the anti-foundation: the one that's perfect if you hate the heavy feeling, visible formulas and upkeep that can be associated with a standard foundation. It blends out to virtually nothing whilst blurring pores and adding enough coverage to areas you may be concerned about. If you have redness or scaring then you'll need a good concealer alongside. If you don't need or simply don't want the higher coverage then it's perfect. I feel like this is the closest I've come to finding that "Instagram filter" foundation effect - the one that blurs and perfects without hiding and making me look flat. As I mentioned, this is a bit of a surprise love for me. The formula is oil based, the finish is very sheer and matte and the pipet applicator all turned me off initially but they're all things I've grow to love. My preferred application is always with a brush but this is an exception, it blends out so seamlessly and with such a beautiful texture it seems a shame to let a brush soak up any kg the formula. The pipet can take some getting used to, I find a few drops between my fingers work best, but it is surprisingly clean and allows you to get the perfect level of coverage.
Of course, the shade range is impressive. Currently I'm siting at a 4 which matches well and as we go into autumn I'm not worried about it looking too much darker as I know I can blend this out to still suit me. The shades go from a very pale 2 up to a deep 9.
The contents of this little bottle has been a pleasant surprise. Going from something I was a little wary of to a firm staple that I genuinely look forward to using everyday. Perfect for injecting that little bit of life back into your complexion, particularly if, you value those extra 5 minutes in bed as much as I do!