In a past life, I was a makeup artist, and during this time, Nars Sheer Glow was the foundation of choice amongst the MUAs.
I loved using Sheer Glow on clients. With medium buildable coverage, a skin-like finish and a great shade range (which has now been extended), it was a no-brainer. Despite this, Sheer Glow never made it into my personal rotation. If pressed, I’d say it was simply bad timing: in 2014, I was going steady with Chantecaille Future Skin (we have since amicably parted ways — $118.00 is really expensive).
When I heard Nars was releasing a new “Light Reflecting Foundation”, I sat up straight — the formula sounded right up my alley.
The Light Reflecting Foundation ($73) blends makeup with skincare in the formula that, according to the website “blurs imperfections and smooths textured skin”. And it comes in a super chic rectangular glass bottle.
My Skin (Or, What Nars Light Reflecting Foundation Is Up Against)
So, what was The Light Reflecting Foundation up against? My skin is generally clear, but very dry. I’m also reaching an age where texture is becoming more of an issue — terms like “blurring” and “smoothing” now catch my eye. I’m fair neutral and selected Mont Blanc from the 36 shades available, which was pretty perfect.
The Light Reflecting Foundation, First Impressions:
I prepped my skin with the new tbh Skincare Rebound Serum, ($68), followed by Bobbi Brown Vitamin Enriched Face Base, ($88.00) (in my opinion, the best primer for dry skin). The Light Reflecting Foundation is very fluid. Pump with caution if you’re wearing something irreplaceable. My tip with fluid foundations is to use a flat brush and divide your face into quarters. Typically, fluid foundations “set” more quickly than creams — if you try to buff in one go, the product will start setting as you work, which can result in a choppy finish.
The lightweight formula had me expecting a light coverage foundation. I was mistaken. When I dipped my Il Makiage Classic Foundation Brush ($60) into the product and swiped on the product… it just. Kept. Spreading. I later checked the instructions and noted Nars suggests starting with a pea-size amount and applying with your fingertips. My bad.
Despite my overzealous application, the results were pretty astonishing. I took a photo of myself halfway through the process to capture just how 6000% better my skin looked. The foundation acts like a blur tool, smoothing skin tone and texture while looking like exceptionally luminous skin (even with my heavy-handed approach).
After marvelling and taking selfies for a few minutes, I proceeded with the rest of my makeup, took some more selfies, and headed out the door. It wasn’t until later in the evening I realised I’d completely forgotten concealer — because I didn’t need it.
I’ve since applied with fingers, a buffing brush and a sponge. While I’d still recommend working in sections, the formula is infinitely flexible. You can build to full coverage or use it sparingly for a filtered finish.
The foundation itself sets down, I always add a little powder in the T-Zone — but you do you, boo.
Will I Use The Nars Light Reflecting Foundation Again?
If you hadn’t guessed, The Light Reflecting Foundation has officially joined my regular rotation as an all-occasion base.
