I think I’m going to call 2016 “The Year of Foundations.” There have been so many new foundations coming out, like PUR HydraFluid Water Serum Foundation, which is new for spring 2016.
It promises an “instant youthful complexion,” which sounds pretty perfect to me, and it’s supposed to do it by adding moisture and radiance. At first glance, I love the packaging (I like serum foundations but don’t usually like the droppers they come with). When I saw that there were only five shades, I got a little nervous, but the light-to-medium coverage means that the finish is sheer enough that I don’t need an exact match. I swatched the colors and happily discovered that Tan is a great match for me (insert sigh of relief).
Here’s a look at the packaging and the shades:
At first, I thought I’d use Dark (I’m a MAC NC45 for reference), but it turns out that Tan is a much better match for me. I do get darker in the summer, though, so I could see myself using Dark then.
The formula feels super light, but it’s still moisturizing, which I love. I have combination skin, so I’m always skeptical about “moisturizing” foundations, because sometimes they feel too heavy and make my T-zone outrageously shiny; however, the first time I tested this, I didn’t use a primer or setting powder, and it lasted quite well. At the end of the day, there was a little bit of shine on my nose, but not enough to bother me at all. It didn’t break up across my cheeks or settle into my smile lines, either, which is another huge plus.
I’d call this light-to-medium coverage with a natural satin finish. The package describes the finish as “dewy,” but I’d say it’s on the subtle side of dewy, if that makes sense. When I applied a dime-sized amount using my Real Techniques Buffing Brush, it did a good job of evening out my skin tone.
I have an acne scar on my forehead, and it still shows through, but I think I could layer a bit more to get more coverage.
PUR HydraFluid Water Serum Foundation is perfect for low-key makeup days, and I could see myself wearing it on weekends for running errands, or for mornings when I’m in a rush to head to work.
You can definitely tell it’s a water-based foundation because it blends very nicely onto the skin (you could easily apply it with your hands and be fine). I have to point out that there is a little note on the packaging that says that it includes an alpha hydroxy acid, which may increase sun sensitivity. I always wear sunscreen, so that doesn’t bother me, but if you’re sensitive to the sun, keep it in mind.
Here are swatches of all five shades:
Overall, I’m really impressed with the lightweight, moisturizing feel, and I’ll definitely add PUR HydraFluid Water Serum Foundation to my everyday foundation rotation. It’s long-lasting and comfortable too. Look into it if you want something with light coverage and a natural satin finish. It’s $39 (for 1 ounce) and available now.
Erin says
Shizz, light looks too dark for me!
Rachel R. says
Same here. 🙁
Lulle says
I like lightweight, sheer serum foundations for those days when I don’t have to much misery to hide, lol! The light shade here seems to be quite pink-toned though, I think I should take a look in store to see if it could work for me.
Adia says
It’s definitely more pink than yellow.
Chelsea says
Your skin looks great here!
Adia says
Thanks, Chelsea 🙂
sarahc says
Perfect for low key days, ok you’re speaking my language. I might have to give this a try! Adia does it last all day long for you? Thank you for doing this review.
Adia says
Hi Sarah, It definitely lasts all day with just a little shine on my nose. I haven’t tried this on hot days (it’s been pretty mild here mostly 60s).
Adia says
Also, I did’t add any powder or special primer, so I bet if I had it there wouldn’t have been any shine.
Eesha says
This foundation looks quite natural on you, Adia 🙂
Adia says
Thanks Eesha!!
Kiss & Make-up says
Sounds good! And I like the way it looks on your skin.
Adia says
Thanks! It’s a pretty natural finish, which I really liked. Loved the way the formula felt on my skin.
christine says
This looks lovely on you!
http://covetedbeauty.blogspot.ca/
Adia says
Thanks, Christine!
Kim says
I like the sound of both the easy application and the finish. Thanks for also noting the AHA. I use BBs or tinted moisturizers that contain SPF so I don’t have the extra step. No SPF, plus AHAs, won’t work for me. It does look very nice on you, though.
Adia says
You’re welcome, Kim. I thought it was worth noting since we know what sun damage can do to the skin! Otherwise it’s a great foundation.
Chris25 says
Great review, Adia! This sounds like a lovely everyday foundation. I do wonder how it would fair in warmer weather, though.
Galaxia says
looks great on you! I’m afraid I’d look too oily, but since you have combo skin and it didn’t give you that issue, maybe I’ll try it for winter! 🙂
SueJazz67 says
Wow! When I first saw your picture, I thought, lucky girl – has perfect skin, doesn’t need to wear any foundation! What a truly beautifully natural finish this has – “subtle side of dewy” look great! Thanks Adia!
Carolina Braina says
I love lightweight foundations that basically just look like skin, but I’m not sure this one would suit my oily skin.