Almay’s Smart Shade foundation line contains microscopic color beads that transform into a perfect makeup shade for your skin tone. The foundation line has several formulas, including Smart Balance and Anti-Aging.
I started testing Almay’s Smart Shade Smart Balance foundation a year ago, and Anti-Aging was recently available on the market. I bought Almay’s Smart Shade Anti-Aging to use and compare to my results with Smart Balance. Both products cost the same, around $10 at your local Target or Walmart.
Color
According to Almay’s advertising, the technology behind Smart Shade foundations is supposed to transform into a woman’s ideal shade. Almay’s Smart Balance foundation in Light / Medium has a slight orange tone if used on pale skin. I tan, so the shade looks better when my face picks up color. Almay’s Smart Balance foundation in Light is however too light for my face. I blend 100 and 200 shades for a better result
Almay’s Anti-Aging foundation in Light / Medium appears white when squeezed out of the tube. On my face, the foundation shade matches up perfectly and the color is not as fake-like. In color comparison, I prefer Almay Smart Shade Anti-Aging foundation.
Texture
Almay Smart Shade foundations are oil free and hypoallergenic. Almay’s Smart Shade Smart Balance foundation gives my face a few dry spots, while the Anti-Aging formula feels moisturizing and hydrating. Almay’s Anti-Aging foundation feels smoother and silky to the touch. However, it feels extremely heavy around my eyes. The anti-aging formula weighs my face down, especially around my eyes and cheeks.
Coverage
Almay’s Smart Balance foundation is transparent and does not have full coverage. It does even out my skin tone and color, but concealer is necessary to hide every imperfection spot. Almay’s Anti-Aging foundation provides full coverage. Almay markets the product as a fine line and wrinkle minimizer. I must say the anti-aging formula delivers the results, as I do not need a touch of concealer on my face.
Both formulas feel extremely heavy on my hands. I have to use a foundation sponge and watch that no product gets on my hands. It is difficult to wash off, even when using soap. The foundation on my face is easy to remove, usually with my regular makeup remover. I dislike the greasiness on my hands, as it sometimes lasts for hours before the product comes off.
Blending
I tried an experiment of blending Almay’s Smart Balance and Anti-Aging foundations. The results were a heavy and greasy feel with an orange color. I would not recommend this idea.
Long Wear
Both Almay Smart Shade foundation formulas are long wear and look nice even hours after application.
Preference
I am on the fence as to which Almay’s foundation formula I like best. I love the coverage of Anti-Aging, as well as the soft and hydrating feel. I dislike the fact that it wears heavy. Despite color discrepancies of Smart Balance, I like the transparent coverage during the day. I will most likely continue using Almay Smart Shade Anti-Aging foundation but I will have to find a way to get better results.