Il Makiage Foundation Reviews: Editors Test the Viral Full-Coverage Formula
Three Cosmopolitan editors put Il Makiage’s viral foundation to the test—sharing results, pros and cons, and expert tips for flawless wear.
If you’re active on social media, you’ve undoubtedly noticed the buzz around Il Makiage’s Woke Up Like This Foundation. Originally a favorite among makeup artists, this foundation has since gone viral, thanks in part to eye-catching before-and-after photos and aggressive advertising. But does it live up to the hype? Three Cosmopolitan editors, each with different skin types and makeup preferences, put this cult-favorite foundation through its paces. Here’s everything you need to know before you buy—from honest pros and cons to in-depth testing and advice on application.
Quick Overview
| Product Name | Il Makiage Woke Up Like This Foundation |
|---|---|
| Price | $45 / £39 |
| Coverage | Medium to Full |
| Finish | Soft-matte, natural |
| Formula highlights | Hyaluronic acid, Vitamin E, Oil-free |
| Application method | Pump dispenser, brush or sponge recommended |
What’s So Special About Il Makiage’s Foundation?
Il Makiage’s Woke Up Like This Foundation stands out for its viral reputation and innovative online shade-matching process. The product promises a buildable, breathable formula with skin-enhancing ingredients.
- 634,376 five-star reviews, making it a fan favorite.
- Uses an online PowerMatch Quiz to help customers find their shade without in-person swatching.
- Contains hyaluronic acid and vitamin E for hydration, even with a matte finish.
- Soft-matte and velvety finish that doesn’t feel dry or cakey, even after extended wear.
- Optically-corrective powders help smooth pores and fine lines without clogging pores.
- Pump dispenser enables easy, mess-free application.
The foundation is described as lightweight despite its full coverage, blending seamlessly into the skin while layering effortlessly for more coverage when needed. For those skeptical about online shade-matching, editors found the quiz impressively accurate for both summer and winter undertones.
How Cosmopolitan Editors Tested Il Makiage Foundation
To ensure an honest review, Cosmo’s editors tested the foundation on a variety of skin types, tones, and preferences. Here’s how the process unfolded:
- Each editor took the PowerMatch Quiz for shade selection.
- The foundation was applied with both moisturizer and primer for seamless blending.
- Wear time was tracked from morning until late evening, including commutes and busy urban settings.
- Editors shared both before-and-after photos and detailed feedback on coverage, comfort, and longevity.
Editor Reviews and Skin Profiles
Jasmine Hyman, Assistant Shopping Editor
- Skin Type: Combination with dry spots.
- Foundation Challenges: Frequently deals with pilling, flaking, and finding foundations that fully cover acne without exacerbating it.
- Experience: “I was skeptical at first, but pleasantly surprised. The coverage was heavier than I’m used to, especially in summer, yet it felt lightweight on my skin and didn’t crack throughout the day. For full-glam lovers and mature skin, it’s excellent. For sheer coverage fans, it may be a bit much.”
- Application Tip: Used with Il Makiage’s foundation brush, over moisturizer and primer.
- Final Thoughts: Impressed by the formula’s performance and even shade match. Would recommend for those seeking substantial coverage with comfort.
Beth Gillette, Beauty Editor
- Role: Covers skincare, makeup, hair, and nails for Cosmopolitan.
- Experience: “I love a natural look, but the promise of poreless, flawless coverage convinced me to try. I forgot I was wearing foundation—it’s that comfortable. The matte finish wasn’t overly drying, and it held up on sweaty commutes and shopping sprees.”
- Shade Matching: Thoroughly impressed by how closely the PowerMatch Quiz shade fit both her current tone (summer and winter versions included).
- Longevity: Stayed perfect for 10+ hours in heat and humidity.
- Would Buy Again?: Absolutely, especially for days where higher coverage is needed.
What others are reading
Shadé, Senior Fashion and Lifestyle Ecommerce Writer
- Role: Senior shopping and lifestyle editor at Cosmopolitan.
- Experience: Used two shades: 130 for summer and 105 for winter. Found the quiz recommendations perfect for skin changes across seasons.
- Wearability: Provided lasting coverage from day to night.
Key Pros and Cons: Honest Assessment
The editors identified clear strengths and weaknesses in the Il Makiage Woke Up Like This Foundation.
| Pros | Cons |
|---|---|
|
|
About the Formula: Ingredients and Benefits
- Hyaluronic acid: Provides hydration for comfortable all-day wear, even in a matte formula.
- Vitamin E: Helps nourish and protect skin, supporting barrier function.
- Optically-corrective powders: Blurs fine lines and helps minimize the appearance of pores.
- Oil-free: Less likely to clog pores or provoke breakouts, suitable for sensitive or acne-prone skin.
- Pump dispenser: Hygienic and efficient product delivery.
In addition, the formula is designed with buildability in mind—allowing users to layer for customized coverage without pilling or heaviness.
Tips for Application and Wear
- One to two pumps covers the entire face, thanks to the rich formula.
- For dry skin: Apply over moisturizer and primer for seamless blending and extra comfort.
- Brush or sponge: Both methods work, but using the brand’s foundation brush was preferred for optimal finish.
- Build coverage slowly: Start with a small amount and layer as needed; the formula blends smoothly and doesn’t pill.
- Check shade match seasonally: Consider selecting two shades if your skin tone changes with the seasons (e.g., lighter for winter, darker for summer).
Best Il Makiage Products to Pair With Woke Up Like This Foundation
1. Il Makiage Icon Mascara (£27)
- Brush shape fits well for separating and lengthening lashes, especially for those with fewer lashes.
- No clumping, so lashes look defined and fluttery
- Cons: Might not provide enough volume for those desiring very bold lashes
2. No Filter Poreless Base Smoothing Primer (£42)
- Popular companion product to the foundation.
- Mattifies and smooths out skin texture for an even canvas.
- Helps improve the longevity of the foundation, especially for oily skin types.
- Cons: High price, but delivers excellent results for those needing texture smoothing and oil control
Additional Products and Brand Experience
While the foundation is Il Makiage’s flagship product, the brand offers a wide range of complementary makeup items, including:
- Eye products (mascara, eyeshadow palettes)
- Lip products (lipsticks, glosses, liners)
- Face products (primers, concealers, powders)
You can shop for individual items or explore curated kits inspired by influencers and artists featured on the brand’s website.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)
Q: Who is Il Makiage’s Woke Up Like This Foundation best for?
A: It’s ideal for anyone seeking medium to full coverage, especially those who want a matte yet hydrated finish. It’s suitable for a wide range of skin types, including normal, combination, and oily, as well as mature skin due to its pore-smoothing properties.
Q: How accurate is the PowerMatch Quiz for shade selection?
A: Editors found the quiz surprisingly precise, offering shade matches for both seasonal changes and undertones. Many users report similar results, but occasionally, undertone matching can be tricky.
Q: Does the foundation feel heavy?
A: Despite its full coverage, editors describe the foundation as lightweight and comfortable, with a thin liquid consistency that avoids a cakey feel.
Q: Can I use Il Makiage foundation on sensitive or acne-prone skin?
A: The oil-free formula and hydrating ingredients make it suitable for sensitive and acne-prone skin, though those with severe sensitivity should always patch-test new products.
Q: How long does the foundation last?
A: Editors experienced flawless wear for at least 10 hours, even in heat and humidity. Longevity can be boosted further with a smoothing primer.
Q: Is Il Makiage foundation worth the higher price?
A: If you’re looking for reliable, long-lasting full coverage and can benefit from the unique shade-matching system, editors believe it’s worth the investment—especially for those who struggle to find their perfect shade or desire a true pro-level finish.
Editor Verdict: Is Il Makiage Foundation Worth It?
Across different skin types and preferences, Cosmopolitan editors agreed that Il Makiage’s Woke Up Like This Foundation delivers impressive results: poreless coverage, longevity, and an unexpectedly comfortable matte finish. Its robust shade-matching quiz helps demystify online shopping for foundation, and the inclusion of hydrating, skin-supporting ingredients earns extra points. While those seeking sheer, barely-there cover may find it a bit rich, fans of full glam and long-lasting makeup will be delighted.
- Editor recommendation: Absolutely worth a try for those needing reliable, buildable coverage and comfort over hours of wear.
- Pro tip: Pair with the brand’s smoothing primer and Icon Mascara for a high-impact, full-face look.
Final Takeaway: Should You Try Il Makiage Foundation?
The Il Makiage foundation stands out as a genuinely versatile, high-performance product. It’s well-suited for anyone who struggles with shade matching or wants pro-level results from an online purchase. If comfortable full coverage and flawless wear are your must-haves, this viral formula may be exactly what you’re searching for.
References
Similar Articles
Read full bio of medha deb
