A foundation that promises to make skin better with time, not worse with wear? Here’s what you need to know about Nars’ new Natural Matte Longwear Foundation
Let’s be honest, Nars has never struggled to make a good foundation, but this new launch feels squarely aimed at how people actually wear make-up now– as an extension to skincare, not a cakey additional layer.
The Natural Matte Longwear Foundation goes live today, costs £43.50 and comes in 46 shades, which is a solid start before you even get into the formula. The big claim is that it doesn’t just cover skin, but improves how it looks over time, with visible changes to pores, texture and shine in two weeks. And though many foundations these days promise to be skin-friendly, few claim to actually improve skin with wear.
Before you read the word ‘matte’ and discount it, this one is trying to move that conversation on from dull, dry bases. It promises medium-to-full coverage, but in a lighter, more breathable texture that still looks like skin once it’s on. The aim is to give the wearer a soft, blurred finish rather than anything flat or mask-like.
What does the new Nars foundation do?
READ MORE: I tried Estée Lauder’s new Double Wear during my worst breakout yet– here’s what happened
The headline feature is its ‘pore-refining’ focus. Nars says the formula is built around a skincare-led blend designed to improve the look of pores and skin texture over time, not just hide them for the day. In clinical testing on bare skin, the brand claims pores look less visible, skin looks smoother and shine is reduced within two weeks of regular wear.
On a day-to-day level, it’s designed to last you through your day – no matter how hot and sweaty you get. The foundation promises up to 24 hours of wear, oil and shine control, and a soft-focus effect that smooths the look of imperfections. It’s also meant to keep its colour true throughout the day and avoid breaking down, creasing or transferring, even in heat or humidity.
How does it feel and wear on the skin?
The texture is described as serum-like, which means it spreads easily, builds without going patchy, and doesn’t feel heavy once it’s set. That matters, especially for anyone who’s been burned by long-wear foundations that look good for an hour and then end up fading or piling around the nose and under-eyes.
Who is it for?
It’s a strong option for anyone who wants coverage and longevity without giving up a natural finish. If you deal with shine, visible pores or make-up that disappears by lunchtime, this is clearly designed with you in mind. It’s also good for a range of ages and skin types, making it a very versatile pick.
Other foundations to try this spring
If you’re shopping around, there are plenty of other foundations promising radiant, even skin this new season. Our head of beauty Zoe just put Estée Lauder’s newly reworked Double Wear Stay-in-Place Foundation , £39.50, to the test on a bad skin week, and raved about its ability to cover without looking cakey.
We can also recommend checking out Sculpted by Aimee’s Cream Cushion Foundation (£28). Drawing inspiration from K-beauty, this product comes in an impressive 30 shades and promises long-lasting wear with a buildable formula that lets users customise the coverage they want.
