Rimmel Stay Matte Liquid Foundation

What it Is:  Rimmel London Stay Matte Liquid Mousse Foundation

What it Does:  Provides lightweight, full coverage while controlling shine

What it Costs:  $5-$7

Where to Get it:  Drugstores, Ulta, or online

Quick Verdict:  Thumbs Up!

I remember using Rimmel Stay Matte as a teen, back when I was really struggling with oily, acne-prone skin.  Now a 20-something, still with oily, acne-prone skin, I was really excited to try the “new & improved” version of Rimmel’s classic foundation.  

I have always *required* a full coverage foundation, because even when I’m not breaking out (thanks to my old pals, my hormones) I still need to cover the marks that are left behind.  Mousse makeup, in general, is designed to be a bit more full coverage, but for some reason I’ve never found that they work for me.  They sit on top of the skin instead of adhering, and they all tend to rub off onto clothing, etc, which is never a good look.   I seem to recall the Stay Matte I used as a teenager doing this… but fortunately, not the new!

This version of Rimmel Stay Matte is pleasantly high quality.  The formula is long wearing and very buildable.  Each layer dries very quickly and very matte, which means you have to work quickly but the result is flawless coverage with a powder finish. 

I did find that this foundation oxidized a bit as it dried, making it about a shade darker after a few minutes than when originally applied.  This is a good thing to consider when looking at shades.  Unfortunately the packaging doesn’t really reveal what the color inside the tube looks like, so you have to guess.  My color is 200 Soft Beige, which dries slightly yellow compared to my skin, but is close enough to work.  Classic Beige seems to be a bit more pink toned, which I may try next!

I’ve been using this consistently ever since I purchased it.  Stay Matte has not broken me out (which doesn’t necessarily mean it’s great for everyone’s skin, but it’s working for me!) and has a texture and coverage I’d compare to Make Up For Ever Mat Velvet +.

Now for the real question, when wearing this foundation, do you really stay matte all day? Unfortunately the answer is no.  My skin is moderately oily, and I find that after about 5 hours I really need to blot and powder my T-zone.  The coverage is still there, and the foundation totally stays in place, but I do get shiny throughout the day.  This is something I can live with, because my skin still feels nice and looks nice - and for five bucks, you really can’t complain!

For the price, I’d definitely recommend checking out this foundation.  It’s they type of product that could really hold up during the hot summer months, and it doesn’t break the bank.  Unfortunately the color selection isn’t spectacular - only 8 shades, and the one I use is number 5.  

Overall:

Very Blendable.  I recommend using a dense, flat topped brush to buff Stay Matte into the skin for natural yet full coverage.  A Beauty Blender will also work!

Lightweight feel.  This doesn’t feel as heavy as it looks… the benefit of a mousse texture! 

However you can definitely see this on your skin, mainly because it is so matte going on.  I like mixing mine with moisturizer occasionally for a more skin-like texture.

Long lasting coverage.  This foundation lasts all day for me without needing to conceal any blemishes.

Decent, but not complete, oil control.  Keeps the grease away for several hours, but does break down after a while.