Review: Alima Pure Satin Matte Foundation

Clockwise from top: Cool 9, Neutral 0, Cool 0, and Beige 2

When I hear that people are having trouble finding the right foundation, it's usually because they are trying lines that are too limited. Many foundations, especially liquids, come in such a limited range of color that it is nearly impossible to get a good match. Unless your foundation line is formulated with undertones in mind, it might be time to try one that does. Alima Pure offers one of the biggest selections in foundations I've seen in any line, and it's a great bonus that their Satin Matte Foundation happens to be quite gentle, too.

Pros:

• Gentle ingredients
• Amazing color variety
• Trial/sample options
• Affordable
• Attractive packaging
• Offers choices for both the lightest and the darkest skin tones

Cons:

• Need a primer for long-lasting coverage

Summary:
When it comes to undertones, Alima knows their stuff. Expanding on the basic three of cool, neutral, and warm, Alima offers beige, golden, and olive undertone options as well. While I am usually cool to neutral in other lines, I am a neutral or a beige (around a 1-2) in Alima's line. Even more remarkable is the range of colors. I am quite fair, and I often have trouble finding shades fair enough for me. "Light" shades are always too dark, and often fair shades have the wrong undertone. I have worked with clients on the opposite end of the spectrum, and I always make sure I stock a dark enough shade in my kit. As a makeup artist, it is vital to have truly dark shades, as you can always mix them to be lighter, but it is very difficult to make them darker. Alima offers shades in the 0 numbered range that are too light even for me, and dark shades in the 8-9 range that are truly dark, especially for the cool and olive undertones.

Cool 0

Another great aspect about this foundation is that they make it easy for you to find your perfect match. They offer a Foundation Selector (that puts together a sample kit), a shade selection page, and individual samples at very affordable prices. There are some scattered retail locations, but I recommend ordering online for the best selection.

This foundation is quite gentle, rating a low 1 on the EWG Skin Deep database. The formula is feels very light, but the coverage builds easily. However, I recommend using a primer for longer-lasting wear. I would love to see a pressed formulation in the future, as pressed are much easier for me to use on clients and in my personal travels. However, Alima Pure's Satin Matte Foundation can't be beat when it comes to color selection; you'll be sure to find a perfect match.

Product Ratings (out of 5)

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Performance
Presentation
Purity
Value

Disclosure notice: This product was sent to me free of charge by the manufacturer for review. No additional compensation was accepted and the opinions are my own. Please verify any claims with the manufacturer, especially if you have any allergies or concerns.

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