The La Mer Soft Fluid Long Wear Foundation is actually the product that surprised me the most this year. I must confess I hadn’t been a fan of the original La Mer foundation and in general, I find the brand overly hyped up. I have tried most of their skincare and makeup offerings in the name of research for my blog of course, and felt that despite bold claims, most fell short of expectations. There were however a few select products that managed to steal my heart forever: the La Mer Eye Concentrate (reviewed here) and the La Mer Radiant Concealer (reviewed here), but the foundation was definitely not one of them.
So when rumors started circulating that La Mer was in the process of reformulating their makeup line, I remained unimpressed. I didn’t plan to go out of my way to sample the line, but luck so had it that a few samples of their new foundation arrived with one of my Nordstrom orders. Fast forward a few weeks and several deluxe samples later, I ended up purchasing full size and that can only mean one thing (yep, Drake fan over here). I am ready to talk and provide you with my thoughts, feelings, likes and dislikes. How does the new La Mer Soft Fluid Long Wear Foundation differ from its predecessor? And naturally, the question on everyone’s mind: is it worth it? Let’s dive in…
Skincolor De La Mer Collection
I’ll give you a quick overview of the collection, as I think it’ll help put things into perspective. The La Mer Skincolor collection includes 3 base products: a beautiful translucent powder, a foundation that comes in 15 different shades and a stick concealer which now comes in 4 shades. The innovation consists in that all of these products are now formulated with La Mer’s famous Miracle Broth to provide anti-aging benefits and improve the skin in the long run. Today I’ll share with you my thoughts on the foundation.
La Mer Soft Fluid Long Wear Foundation
There are only a handful of foundations, which I could probably count on one hand, that have earned Holy Grail status. To me, foundation is the most important step as it’s the one product meant to veil the entire face and reveal a flawless canvas upon which all the other makeup products are applied. The most recent addition to my Holy Grail stash is now the La Mer Soft Fluid Foundation.
The most notable difference between the newly released foundation and their previous version is the inclusion of the La Mer Miracle Broth, along with other anti-oxidants and SPF20 sun protection, to provide long-term anti-aging properties. Each shade is labeled using a 2-digit numbering system: the first digit corresponds to the intensity (0 – lightest and 4 – darkest) and the second digit corresponds to the undertone (1 – cool, 2 – neutral and 3 – warm). I have used and will swatch for you shades 22 Neutral (it is truly a neutral shade that pulls a little ashy on me) and 23 Sand (which I would describe as Medium Warm). The shade 23 Sand is a true match for my complexion at the moment, I’m still donning a subtle suntan from my recent beach getaway, which you would have seen on my Instagram.
Photo taken in indoor lighting, no editing or filters have been applied to this photo. Top shade is No. 23 (Sand), bottom shade is No. 22 (Neutral).
Photo taken in outdoor lighting, no editing or filters have been applied to this photo. Top shade is No. 23 (Sand), bottom shade is No. 22 (Neutral).
I love the way the foundation applies and feels on my face. The magic of it lies in that it’s imperceptible to the eye, it’s almost as if you’re not wearing anything at all. Just bare, beautiful, lit-from-within, glowing skin. The texture feels light and silky, but fear not, it has amazing medium to full coverage, concealing even the most stubborn imperfections without emphasizing fine lines. It evens out the skin tone and smooths the appearance of pores to reveal a soft complexion. The finish is not matte nor dewey, but feels and looks just like flawless second skin. The result is a more youthful looking complexion that appears radiant and refreshed.
The foundation can be applied with a brush, beauty blender or any other foundation tool. It blends out beautifully even when using the fingers. I will say that this foundation has a fairly strong SPF scent (at least to me), which I’m not a fan of, but that luckily doesn’t linger much longer after application, nor does it prevent me from using the product. And as if to counter the scent, this is a foundation that in my experience lasts all day, doesn’t oxidize, nor does it look cakey or streaky at any point in time.
Please excuse the bathroom selfie below. I wanted to include this photo with my review, as it’s a real testament to how beautifully this foundation performs. Even for selfies taken with an iphone and in poor lighting!
And so here is a makeup look featuring the La Mer Soft Fluid Long Wear Foundation, 8 hours after the initial application. I started out by priming my face with the Chanel Le Blanc Primer on top of which I applied my La Mer foundation in the shade Sand (No. 23) using my Sephora Pro Airbrush and blending it out with my beauty blender. Although I did use a primer for this particular look, the foundation performs just as well without the use of a primer and lasts just as long. I opted for a primer as this is a full makeup look I created for our holiday photos this year, so I wanted my entire makeup (blush, bronzer, highlighter, etc) to stay in place and not budge all day.
Packaging
The La Mer Soft Fluid Long Wear Foundation is contained in an elegant, frosted glass bottle that allows you to see exactly how much product is left. It has a pump applicator that dispenses just the right amount, so you can control how much product you’re using. In my experience, it takes about 1 ½ pumps to completely cover my face and blend out onto the neck.
Final Thoughts
Applying and working with this foundation truly feels like an experience. Everything from the silky formula to the coverage and finish to the beautiful, glass bottle is absolute luxury. I adore this foundation and have reached for it every day. It has officially earned the title of Foundation of the Year for me!
The La Mer Soft Fluid Long Wear Foundation is now available in stores and online. Have you tried it yet? What is your favorite foundation at the moment?
This is NOT a sponsored post but it does contain referral links. Read my Disclaimer policy for more info.
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I would really like to try this foundation! Tonight I used Le Metier de Beaute Skin Glow or I’d have to go dig it out (I’m now in bed LOL) but the foundation was fabulous. Very light coverage but still just undetectable on the skin. I was quite impressed. I would love to try La Mer. I’ll be at the mall tomorrow and give it a look!!
Hi Janine, thank you for stopping by. I’ve never used Le Metier but have heard it is a spectacular foundation. Thank you for recommending, will definitely have to try it next time I’m at the mall. As far as the La Mer, I really like the finish and lasting power. The anti-aging and SPF are an added bonus as well! Glad you enjoyed the post! ~ Cat L.
I’ve seen this foundation in stores but now that I read your review, I would really like to try it! I’m currently using the Guerlain Lingerie de Peau, but I would love a foundation with anti aging properties! Will be getting a sample next time I’m at the mall!
Thank you for stopping by, Carmen. I was very impressed by this foundation and definitely recommend it for all the reasons I mentioned in my review. Glad you found the post helpful! ~ Cat L.
Dear Cat, I finally found the time to read you appreciated blog and the first post is this one. So honest review and opinion and I love the way how you explain everything.
I’m so glad La Mer has improved their formula and thanks to your post, I will pay more attention to their products.
You look amazing as usual and your skin is wonderfully looking.
Sending you a lot of love,
Mar
Hi Mar, you are always so kind to me and your support means more than you know! Thank you for such lovely sweet words. I love interacting with you here on the blog and on Instagram. I truly look forward to your comments as they always make my day! Thank you for catching up with the blog. I’m glad you found this post helpful and informative! ~ Cat L.
Oh really want to try this foundation now after reading this post Cat.Amazing work as always with swatches and honest review on the products.
Have a lovely Sunday xx
Thank you Edra so much! You are far too kind as always! Glad you enjoyed the post! I was very surprised by this foundation as I wasn’t a fan of their previous formula! Definitely check it out if you get a chance! ~ Cat L.
I’ve been so interested to hear about the new formula, I usually go with light to medium coverage foundations but I would like something with a bit more coverage for evenings, but that still feels really light so this might be a go-er! Your skin looks impeccable in your selfie too so that makes it even more attractive! And what is on your nails??? (I’m going to guess….. Louboutin or Dior Fall?) Such a beautiful colour!
http://www.barelytherebeauty.com
xx
Jennifer, thank you for stopping by and for leaving me such a kind sweet comment. I am a fan of your blog so your feedback means more than you know. The foundation is medium to full coverage however it does not feel or look heavy on the skin at all. I too typically gravitate toward light to medium, BBs or a tinted moisturizer on most days, but this foundation really impressed me. It looks as if you’re not wearing anything at all. Definitely give it a try and ask for a sample. You will not be disappointed. As far as the nail color, it is the new Essie formula in Galavanting, such a rich deep merlot shade that lasts on my nails for 6 days without chipping! Definitely recommend that as well! ~ Cat L.
Very interesting review as always and La Mer is on my radar for a while… Need to splurge soon ! Happy Sunday Cat ! xoxo
Kédidja | beautymoodboard.com
Thanks so much for stopping by, Kédidja. Definitely get a sample, you will not be disappointed! ~ Cat L.
You always look so flawless and now I know your secret! I’ve been pondering this foundation for a while but the high price tag initially put me off, but after reading your review I think I’m a little bit in love. The anti ageing properties are a total plus point as well as the spf, which is a total must for me now I’m getting older. Think I’ll pop in store and get colour matched!
Wonderful review
Lisa xxx
Beauxdiaries.com
Oh Lisa, you are way too kind! Thank you so much for the lovely comment! I totally understand as far as the price. It is definitely on the high end and definitely a splurge. It took several deluxe samples and countless compliments I received when wearing the foundation, to finally take the plunge and invest in it. Given the price, I definitely recommend trying out some samples first and wearing the foundation for a few days just to see if it is truly a winner for you as well. Hope this helps! Keep me posted! ~ Cat L.
Oh Cat, how you tempt me so! This foundation sounds absolutely lovely. I love a weightless feeling and a finish that isn’t too matte or too dewy. Your skin looks flawless, and of course your images are so stunning as always! I’ll have to check out this foundation!
xoxo Jenn│www.beautybyjellybean.com
Jenn thank you so much for stopping by and for such lovely feedback. I adore your blog, so your comments mean more than you know! The foundation is definitely a winner for me. I love the way it applies and looks, as well as how long it lasts. The anti-aging properties and SPF, especially as I’m getting older, are definitely an added bonus! I strongly recommend trying out some samples. Do keep me posted! ~ Cat L.
Your reviews are life ?? Thank you kindly for such a detailed explanation as I have been wanting to try this foundation as well. I feel so educated on it right now, that all is left to ask at the counter, is only the color match. Thanks lovely friend. Regarding, my current HG is MUFE pro HD stick foundation and I also enjoy the Dior Nude Air serum. Have a terrific evening gorgeous
Anxhela, thank you from the bottom of my heart for such blush worthy compliments. So so glad I was able to help and you found the post informative. That is always what I aim for! I haven’t tried the MUFE pro HD yet, but I have to agree with you on the Dior Nude Air, it is such a lovely foundation and looks so natural on the skin. Do let me know if you end up trying the La Mer, I’m always curious to compare notes! Wish you a gorgeous rest of the weekend! ~ Cat L.
Dear Cat,
Thanks so much for your lovely review!
And… love the bathroom selfie!
XXX
C
http://www.beautiqueblog.com
Claudia, thanks so much for stopping by! I adore your blog and admire your sense of style, so your feedback means more than you know! I was a little unsure about the bathroom selfie but decided to go for it as it illustrates how beautifully this foundation holds up! Hope you get a chance to try it! ~ Cat L.
This sounds very impressive, and it looks gorgeous on your skin. Very healthy and radiant x
ALittleKiran | Bloglovin
Hi Kiran, thank you for stopping by and for the lovely comment. Although I don’t consider myself a fan of the brand, I am however very impressed by this foundation. I noticed you also have a blog that is new to me, so off to check it out! ~ Cat L.
I am so used to seeing other people use LaMer, but since this is your new favorite piece – it is my duty to go out and try it for myself! Foundations can be so tricky, but you look so flawless on that photograph (and always) 🙂 Thanks for the review!
Hi Naya, thank you for stopping by. I have tried every La Mer offering throughout the years and I have to say that this foundation stole my heart. I hadn’t been a fan of their previous version so I was also pleased to see that the formula has much improved. Hope you do get a chance to try it, keep me posted! ~ Cat L.
Cat,
Thank you for the through and honest review, I’ve had a hard time finding a color match with its predecessor, the darkest shade was not an exact match for my medium golden skin so I am wondering if this new formulation will have a better match, especially since the price tag is up there. You look stunning and I think I may visit the counter to try it.
Xo,
Dom
http://www.calibeaute.com
Hi Dom, thank you for stopping by. I think the foundation is definitely worth a try. For me, it ticks all the boxes. I like the formula, the way it looks on my skin and the anti-aging benefits and SPF are definitely an added bonus. I also struggled with the previous formula and simply couldn’t justify their bold claims and price tags. But I’ve been pleased to see that this new formula has much improved. Do keep me posted, I’d be interested in hearing your thoughts if you get a chance to try it. ~ Cat L.
Your photos are always so gorgeous! I just watched a video from one of my favorite bloggers, and she also raved about the La Mer foundation, mentioning the exact same points you did! I’ve never tried their products before because the price is just too high, but it sounds like this foundation is a worth investment. Thank you for sharing!!
xoxo,
Jenny // http://www.geekyposh.com
Hi Jenny, thank you for stopping by. I went thru several deluxe samples before I finally took the plunge with this foundation. I really like the way it looks on the skin and of course the anti-aging benefits, especially after a certain age. I would definitely recommend getting a sample especially if you’re still searching for a great foundation. ~ Cat L.
Oh my, it sounds divine. A medium to full coverage that looks like second skin!? I am going to ask for samples next time I go to the mall! I fall exactly at neutral, so I hope they can match me! Thanks for the wonderful review and you look stunning in that bathroom selfie!!!
Laura, thank you so much! You are always so kind to me and I am so grateful for our interactions here on the blog and on Instagram! Wish you a great rest of the week! ~ Cat L.
Dear Cat, I finally found the time to read your review. I’m always curious to know more about luxury foundations because I haven’t found a luxury or high-end foundation that is a lot better than my drugstore ones.
This foundation looks amazing on you and it does sound lovely.
xx Désirée (stunnydesi_loves on IG)
Hi Desi, thank you so much for stopping by! To me, foundation is the most important step of any makeup routine. It’s not easy to find a great foundation and as you also said, often times (especially nowadays) drugstore foundations perform just as good (I still love my L’Oreal True Match). For me, especially after a certain age, it was important to find something that not only looked good but also had anti-aging benefits and SPF. This one ticked all the boxes. Glad you stopped by! I always enjoy seeing comments from you here and on Instagram! Hope you have a great day! ~ Cat L.
Wow Foundation of the year that’s some complement, Cat! it seems like you guys have more shades than available in the ??, at the moment.
Its nice to hear that there is a foundation out there that actually meets expectations. I am stuck with my Dior nude as nothing compares so far for that natural look I also love so much, just like you, I was going to check out the guerlain but will hunt samples of this one too.
Thanks for sharing this thorough review, it actually helps me know what to look for before I go in store.
Thanks for stopping by, Esnath! I always wonder how it gets determined what shades are released and where! Hopefully there is a good reason as to why not all the shades are made available to you. The foundation is really great, definitely try a sample if you get a chance. As far as Dior Nude, it is one of my favorites as well. I haven’t purchased it in a while, but it is definitely an oldie and always a goodie! Glad you enjoyed the post! ~ Cat L.
La Mer is going really strong with introducing new products lately. I remember the times when they were really only selling their best seller face cream. It’s that kind of brand that makes you feel luxurious when you use it. I had a chance to try La Mer oil and it was really good. Great to see some makeup pieces coming too. Lovely and very informative review, as usual from you. By the way, I love your dress! xx
trendissimo.pl
Thank you Anna so much! You are always too kind and given that I’m such a big fan of your blog, your feedback means more than you know. La Mer could be hit or miss, but for me this foundation was a big winner (finish, formula, anti-aging, spf). I have tried their serums but not the oil yet. So will make sure to get a sample of that next time I’m at the mall. Thank you again for leaving me such a kind sweet comment! ~ Cat L.
Ok Cat, so you have sold me on this foundation with your beautiful and honest review. I have never tried any of La Mer’s makeup before but I had been curious about this foundation but the price held me back. I was looking at all the shades online but I think I would have to go to the counter to get a proper shade match. Your photos are always gorgeous of course. xo
Ann-Marie | http://facetocurls.com
Hi Ann-Marie, thank you for stopping by. I have to say the price for this foundation is definitely steep even though the formula has improved and contains anti-oxidants and other anti-aging ingredients. It is also the reason why I went thru dozens of samples first before deciding to invest in it. For me in general, I decided to splurge on a few items that I know work for my skin instead of building a vast makeup collection which seems to be the ongoing trend on Instagram. Do keep me posted if you get a chance to try this foundation! ~ Cat L.
I want to try this! Looks amazing on you. My holy grail is Armani’s luminous silk. What is your shade in the luminous silk so I can find a match for me. I think Sand could work for me.
Hi Kelly, I adore Armani Luminous Silk and have used it for years. My shade in the Luminous silk is No. 5.5 The La Mer foundation is very similar to Luminous Silk in terms of how it feels on the face and finish. But it has anti-aging properties and SPF, which I prefer on a daily basis. Hope this helps! Thank you for stopping by! ~ Cat L.
I’ve never tried any la mer products before, other than the occasional sampling at their counter lol. At least their makeup is slightly more affordable than their skincare lol. I’m glad to hear that the reformulated foundation is totally worth it! That’s awesome that it works just as well without the primer. Thanks for the honest review 🙂
Mili | Sharmtoaster
Hi Mili, thank you for your comment. Agreed, this is one of the most expensive brands out there and I definitely expected a lot from this foundation given the price. I also think there are a lot of other great options from various price points. L’Oreal, Rimmel, Dior and Armani make some great foundations. So aside from the finish, the other main reason I decided to splurge on the La Mer was the anti-aging benefits. Thank you again for stopping by, off to check out your blog! ~ Cat L.
I am just obsessed with this foundation!!! I’m so glad you found this one to be as great, and I love seeing your bathroom selfie!!! You look great!
Linda, thank you for stopping by! I adore your blog and read your review on this foundation as well. Glad to see we’re in agreement, it is indeed a very beautiful product. The formula has improved so much since their previous version! I was pleased to see the brand took notes and listened to their customers’ feedback! Hope you’re having a great week! ~ Cat L.
Love everything about this review! Your bathroom selfie is perfect!! I need to try this foundation out ASAP!xo
Sandy, thank you so much! You are far too kind! Do sample the foundation if you get a chance. I’d be curious to hear your thoughts! Hope you’re having a great week! ~ Cat L.
Well seeing as we love to twin and this has earnt ‘Foundation of the Year’ status with you, I want to try! Wow it not only looks stunning on your skin, you look amazingggggg, but your fantastic review explained it all perfectly. I too am very fussy when it comes to foundation and there aren’t many that have be wanting to cheat on my already HG status ones. Thank you Cat, I shall have to see if I can sample! Kelly xxx
http://www.KELLiLASH.com
Hi Kelly, thank you for stopping by. So glad you enjoyed the review and found it helpful. We do seem to enjoy similar beauty products, so I’d be curious to hear your thoughts on this foundation! Keep me posted! ~ Cat L.
Cat I want to try this ! Even though I always lean more towards the matte foundations , your review has me very curious! My go to foundation right now is make up forever matte finish. Btw gorgeous bathroom selfie !
Your iPhone selfie is gorgeous! The foundation does suit you to a T. Now I want to give it a go and see how it behaves on my oily skin. 🙂
I use Armani Luminous Silk foundation, which I love, but curious to try this. Thoughts on the comparison?
Hi Kristin, thank you for stopping by. I love love Armani Luminous Silk and have used it for many years. What I’ve always appreciated about Luminous Silk is that it looked flawless on my face back when I had oily skin in my younger days as well as now when my skin is more mature and a little drier. I’m not sure I would totally recommend the La Mer foundation to someone with oily skin. It is a treatment foundation with SPF (Luminous Skin does not have SPF) and although it’s not marketed as a dewey finish foundation, I would say the La Mer Foundation has a dewey-ier finish than Luminous Silk. The coverage appears very similar. I think if you’re interested in trying the La Mer, the best thing would be to get a sample and seeing how it performs on your complexion. Hope this helps. ~ Cat L.
This is very helpful! Thanks!
I finally got to read this lovely review! I been meaning to read it ever since I first saw your post about it on IG! and wow it sounds lovely! I didn’t really like their foundation from before either… I think I enjoyed their finishing powder but I only tried it few times and clumsy me left it on my flight after pulling it out to touch up my makeup… I didn’t bother repurchasing-I told myself I don’t deserve a new one for being so careless lol But I’ll definitely check out this new foundation next time I’m near a la mer counter^^
Cat thank you for the amazing and very detailed review, I will definitely try this soon because I promise myself I will not buy unless I finish one or two bottles. We get lost most of the time especially now there’s a million makeup launch every day. I hope you have a lovely week my Dear Friend. ♡♡♡
I’ve been using their translucent powder for about a year and tried the foundation a few weeks ago.
I told the saleswoman I wanted to give it a day to see how the foundation wore before I committed to buying it (it looked amazing on right away and felt like there was nothing on my skin) and I absolutely loved it.
I was shade 22 and it blended into my skin flawlessly, didn’t cling to dry patches, didn’t oxidize or get blotchy.
It’s obscenely expensive but it looks and feels so good, even close up and is very long lasting with spf.
I’ll keep buying it as long as it keeps making my skin amazing!
Thank you for stopping by. Agreed and love how you phrased it: obscenely expensive. I think I have about 1/3 left in my bottle and have been trying to dilute it every time I use it by adding a luminizing serum, thus not using as much of the foundation. I like that this foundation has anti-aging benefits and is considered a treatment foundation. Having said that, it’s still however very difficult to justify the steep price. I keep telling myself it goes on face and I’m trying to preserve what I have. Thank you for taking the time to comment! Hope you’re enjoying your week! ~ Cat L.