April 3, 2012

MAC Extra Dimension Eyeshadow Review & Swatches

I feel like the MAC In Extra Dimension Collection is a new, exciting take on MAC’s traditional Mineralize release. I crave Mineralize Collections so this was an exciting collection.

I think it’s different for MAC as they haven’t really released something like it before but I’m also scared they might start doing one of these collections every few months thus overwhelming me with Extra Dimension Eyeshadows and Skinfinishes to the point I hate them, that happened with Mineralize Skinfinishes at some point in my makeup life.

But let’s not be negative, let’s talk positive.

Visually these are incredible. I’ll throw it out there and say they remind me of the the Velveeta Cheesy Skillet guy. I can picture him pouring MAC Extra Dimension Eyeshadows, looking up at me with a twinkle eye in his eye, and saying, “Liquid Golddddd”.

Extra Dimension Eyeshadows are just incredible to look at. They look like just poured molten liquid metal.

Take a look!

MAC Extra Dimension Eyeshadows have the smoothness of a cream but the blendability of a liquid and the wear and application of a powder. If liquid metal-like finishes are your bag you’ll find no fault here. These give your eye extra dimension in a sparkling formula that looks and wears stunning.

MAC created them by combining a blend of creams, liquids, powders, and pearls and proceeding to drain all the liquid out of the formula, molding and shaping it into a cake. What’s left of the formula is pure pigment and pearl which is a light formulation that MAC calls Light Powder Technology. See? They really do have a Velveeta Cheesy Skillet guy pouring eyeshadow into pans in some dank warehouse.

(Swatched left to right: Modern Pewter, Young Venus, and Grand Galaxy)

Grand Galaxy

Young Venus

Modern Pewter

I think the hybrid formula proves excellent considering MAC has been losing some gain with me in terms of quality of their eyeshadows. These have a excellent formula plus its a refreshing change from the norm and offers a unique new eyeshadow experience. A few brands already have a similiar formula so this could be considered right on trend at the moment, Sephora Prisma Eyeshadows come to mind however MAC’s version prove considerably nicer with more pop.

These can be used wet and dry and for the most part I dislike wetting any of my eyeshadows but I admit that the best finish was wet which gives a more intense color pay off as well as an incredibly vibrant finish that can be only described as metal-like. I find the wear time is much better wet opposed dry as they tend to crease a bit and fade away. To avoid such a conundrum I suggest a cream base or solid, creamy primer beneath as this will intensify the color as well as hold the shadow in place for the longest wear. Oily lids will find them challenging to wear so prep, prep, prep prior to applying!

They have a smooth, even glide over lids with zero fall out. The application feels like a cream but they blend out and wear like that of a powder. The finish without primer or base is a little sheerer but they build easily with a sponge applicator.

I have to say, I’m impressed with these. MAC has failed me a little bit in the past few releases and doesn’t hold as much magic for me as it once did but these show proof that the quality and innovation we expect from the brand is still alive and kicking.

The only thing I’d have loved was a few more warmer shades but all in all the MAC Extra Dimension Eyeshadows are a win.

Muse Approved for purchase.

Worth indulging in.

Tried ’em?

Love ’em?

Do share!

On counters this week and online now at maccosmetics.com

About the Muse

Isabella MuseIsabella is just an average everyday geeky girl who doesn’t blend her eyeshadow correctly, wears too much blush, and hopes she never finds her holy grail products because she likes the thrill of the chase so much. Her mission is to bring you super honest reviews on makeup, skincare, fragrance and all things beauty. She’s in no way an expert on the topic and she sure as hell isn’t a super model. But she’s passionate about makeup and is seeking like-minded individuals that like pina coladas, getting caught in the rain, and ones that enjoy spending hundreds of dollars at Sephora without feeling buyer’s remorse. If you’re that person feel free to reach out and leave a comment or follow me on Facebook, Instagram, Twitter, and Bloglovin‘.

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Comments

  • JenJ

    I ordered Havana and Rich Core. Grand Galaxy was a close third to be ordered. If it doesn’t sell out I may go back and order it.

    • the Muse

      good picks jen ;-D lovely shades! grand galaxy makes for a nice smoky purple look!

  • Miss D

    Please post a photo wearing one of these shades if you get a chance, Muse…especially if you applied it wet! Thanks so much. 🙂

  • aquahartz

    Too bad these are not here in Melbourne yet! But love the swatches, cant wait these on you with different swipes (wet/ dry), Muse.
    I love Modern Pewter, will probably get it if these ever reach the down under Kangaroo country =D

  • Dyan

    i ordered these in rich core, modern pewter, sweet heat, and dark dare. i have a feeling i will be collecting every last color! a few of them i can wait to pick up once it gets to my cco.

  • Kimryan8

    I picked up Blue Orbit yesterday but Modern Pewter and Grand Galaxy were next. I swatched ALL of them and they are all gorgeous. Finally MAC releases something worth some hype. They are all incredibly pigmented colors. A+!!!