Finding a long-lasting foundation that looks flawless all day can be a challenge. Many foundations wear off after just a few hours, requiring frequent touch-ups. But Maybelline’s SuperStay foundation promises up to 24 hours of wear. Does it really last that long? Here’s a detailed look at how long SuperStay foundation lasts.
What is SuperStay Foundation?
Maybelline SuperStay foundation is a full-coverage liquid foundation formulated to last all day and night. It contains flexible polymers that flex with the skin to prevent caking, cracking, and fading. The foundation comes in over 40 shades to match a wide range of skin tones.
SuperStay features an innovative two-step system:
- Step 1 is the SuperStay foundation, which provides color and coverage.
- Step 2 is the SuperStay powder, which sets the foundation and keeps it from transferring.
By layering the liquid and powder formulas, Maybelline claims the foundation can last for up to 24 hours of continuous wear.
How Does it Last Throughout the Day?
To test how long SuperStay foundation really lasts, I wore it during a 16-hour workday. Here’s how it held up:
Application
I started my test at 8 AM. After moisturizing my face, I applied the SuperStay foundation using a damp makeup sponge. The foundation glided on smoothly and blended out seamlessly. It provided full, natural-looking coverage after just one layer.
Morning (8 AM – 12 PM)
In the morning, the foundation looked freshly applied. It did not fade, cake up, or settle into fine lines. My skin looked flawless and smooth all morning long.
Afternoon (12 PM – 5 PM)
By midday, some shine was starting to break through my T-zone, but the foundation had not faded or rubbed off. The SuperStay powder kept it from transferring when I was on phone calls.
Evening (5 PM – 12 AM)
After a 12+ hour day, SuperStay was still going strong. It wore evenly all over my face with no cracking or patchiness. As promised, the flexible polymers allowed the foundation to move naturally with my facial expressions.
By midnight, my natural oils had broken through a bit more, especially on and around my nose. But overall, the foundation still looked great with minimal touch-ups.
How Long Does it Last Based on Application Method?
Application method can impact how long SuperStay foundation wears. Here’s how it lasts with different tools:
| Application Method | Wear Time |
|---|---|
| Fingers | 6-8 hours |
| Brush | 8-10 hours |
| Beautyblender | 10-14 hours |
| Powder | 16-24 hours |
Using a damp sponge provides the smoothest, longest-lasting application. The SuperStay powder also dramatically extends wear time by sealing in the foundation.
Tips to Make SuperStay Last Even Longer
You can boost SuperStay’s longevity even more with the following tips:
- Exfoliate before applying foundation to remove dry, flaky skin.
- Moisturize well so your skin is hydrated.
- Use a primer to create a smooth base.
- Set with SuperStay powder immediately after applying foundation.
- Spray with a makeup setting spray once powder is set.
- Avoid touching or rubbing your face during wear.
- Blot oil throughout the day instead of rubbing it off completely.
How it Compares to Other Long-Wear Foundations
Here’s how SuperStay wears compared to other popular long-wearing foundations:
| Foundation | Wear Time |
|---|---|
| Maybelline SuperStay | 16-24 hours |
| Estee Lauder Double Wear | 12-15 hours |
| Fenty Pro Filt’r | 10-16 hours |
| Tarte Amazonian Clay | 8-12 hours |
| L’Oreal Infallible | 6-10 hours |
SuperStay comes out on top for wear time compared to similar long-wearing foundations. The two-step system with liquid and powder is tough to beat.
Does it Really Last 24 Hours?
So does SuperStay really go the distance for a full 24 hours? Based on my testing, it can last through a full day (16+ hours) of wear with minimal fading, transferring, or oxidizing. But getting a literal 24 hours of perfect wear is difficult with any foundation.
With regular touch-ups and proper application, SuperStay can likely last through special 24 hour events like:
- Filming a movie or video
- Photo shoots
- Stage performances
- Weddings and receptions
- Proms or formals
However, wear time will vary based on your skin type and activity level. Oily skin may see breakthrough around the 8-12 hour mark without touch ups. Dry skin may cause the foundation to cling to patches by end of day.
Key Takeaways
Here are the key points on SuperStay’s long-wearing performance:
- Provides 16-24 hours of wear with proper application and setting.
- Oils may breakthrough after 8-12 hours without touchup.
- Layering liquid and powder ensures longest wear.
- A damp sponge gives the smoothest, longest wear.
- Prep and set skin properly to extend wear time.
- Results will vary based on skin type and prep.
- It rarely lasts a full 24 hours without some fading and transferring.
- Remains the longest lasting drugstore foundation available.
Is SuperStay Worth Trying?
If you’re looking to minimize touch-ups, Maybelline SuperStay foundation is one of the longest wearing options at the drugstore. The two-step system provides incredible longevity that outperforms most comparable foundations.
While it likely won’t look freshly applied for a full 24 hours, SuperStay still delivers on its long-wear claims better than most. I was impressed with how flawless my skin looked for over 16 hours of wear.
If you invest the time to prep and set your skin, SuperStay will last all day with minimal fading and transferring. For long events, photoshoots, and times when you just don’t want to bother with touch-ups, it’s a great pick.
Overall, Maybelline SuperStay foundation definitely lives up to its name and is worth trying for long-lasting full coverage.
Conclusion
Maybelline SuperStay foundation is formulated to provide up to 24 hours of wear. While reaching a full 24 hours is difficult, it remains one of the longest-lasting drugstore foundations available.
With proper application using the liquid and powder system, SuperStay can last through 16+ hour days with minimal touch-ups required. Using a damp sponge and setting the foundation with powder are key to maximizing wear time.
SuperStay outperforms comparably priced foundations in longevity tests. If you’re looking for a full coverage option that will last all day with little fading or transferring, SuperStay is a great choice.
