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Monday, May 5, 2014

Benefit Big Easy Multi-Balancing Complexion Perfector Product Review

This was indeed a circus! I ate an entire bag of popcorn figuring this one out! Benefit's Big Easy Multi-Balancing Complexion Perfector has a lot of IF'S, AND'S, and BUT'S! I hate if's, and's and but's.You will either LOVE or HATE this. It will either be HIT or MISS for you. IF your complexion is FAIR or LIGHT, this will work for you. BUT it will only work, IF you have oily, combination or MAYYYBE normal skin. IF you are a PERSON OF COLOR (that includes me), I don't suggest this product for you. IF you have DRY SKIN, I don't suggest this product for you. AND IF you have dark circles, acne scars or any other cute things to cover up, understand this product will not give you full coverage.You will need a concealer. Benefit's Boi-ing Concealer IS really good :). I use it all the time. Onto the review...
Benefit's Big Easy comes in 6 shades: 
(01 - FAIR), (02 - LIGHT), (03 - LIGHT/MEDIUM), (04 - MEDIUM), (05 - BEIGE), (06 - DEEP BEIGE).
It retails for $38, has an SPF of 35, promises to balance moisture & control oil, promises to adjust on your skin to your exact shade, and has a liquid-to-powder finish. I received a sample of all 6 shades (with a beauty order I placed with ULTA), but it wasn't enough to make an assessment. So, I ended up going to my local ULTA to test them out in person.

Anything in only 6 shades, makes me nervous. That's when you start mixing colors and trying to make things work. Benefit has a history of not being "person-of-color" friendly. That needs to change. Plus, who are they testing on? SHOW ME the test group! Oh, the test group is below. This does NOT include everybody! I'm a light-skinned African-american and none of these worked for me. Sigh. Diversity Benefit! Diversity! 


The proof is in the popcorn! I know I should say pudding, but I'm trying to work with the circus theme. HaHaHa I swatched all 6 shades on my hand (below). For the record, I have dry skin (so this product wouldn't work for me...but it still doesn't excuse a no-color match). I blended out 04-Medium, which was too light. I blended out 05-Beige & 06-Deep Beige. Both were too dark. After blending, I saw hints of ORANGE!!! Oh no! So, I walked outside (natural lighting). DARK ORANGE!!! I sat in my car! LIGHT ORANGE! Shades 05 & 06 will give you an Oompa Loompa Face! Shades 01 to 04 are SAFE. Plus, do you see that powdery finish? On my dry skin it looks horrid. This is NOT for DRY SKIN! Benefit states that AND also states you should MOISTURIZE before using this product. Some more if's, and's and but's. HaHaHa

I did a little research (YouTube/Beauty Bloggers) to validate my assessment. Here are examples of ORANGE FACES (here, here, here, here - ALL are beautiful girls, but to me their skin looks orange).Here are examples of Benefit's Big Easy working BEAUTIFULLY (here, here, here). An example of it being too light (here)...she didn't particularly care for it either. LOL Excellent in-depth review (here). So see! I'm fair! Although this didn't work for me, it does work for some. Bottom line! DON'T BUY THIS ONLINE! GO TO THE STORE! TRY IT ON! TAKE A PICTURE INSIDE! TAKE A PICTURE OUTSIDE! Don't be an Oompa Loompa! ;) Have A Great Week Everybody!
Sweet-Bittersweet-NotSweet
supersweet(run & buy it) sweet(really good,buy it) bittersweet(ok, issues)not sweet(not good,don't buy this stuff)
  Benefit's Big Easy is Bittersweet
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93 comments

  1. I loved the packaging and want to try these products , lovely review Kim =) have a nice week ahead ;=)

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  2. I agree ,the Shades are not beautiful. Thank you for the Interesting Review :)

    Happy Monday Kim ,kisses! ♡

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  3. I have oily skin... I think that Medium is for me though.

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  4. it seems like the medium shade blends in very well with your skin. This probably wouldn't be a good product for me since you said it doesn't give very good coverage for acne scars and such. Great review though, Kim!
    www.lettersimpromptu.blogspot.com

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  5. Shame there isn't more range in shades really. This is always my problem with being mixed, the shades aren't always in range for me. Not to include darker shades in this day and age is just a bit ignorant really. Not everyone is pale and not everyone is super dark either, you need to have a full range on display and offered. Shame, I liked the look of this too, but I'm not ready to be an Oompa Loompa really, haha!! Super review doll xx

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  6. Thank you for sharing the review!
    Have a good week's beginnig!

    Viky --- MySecretPoison

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  7. Ahah, Kim, you made me laugh out load! What a shame, I was just so inspired by only the packaging but it wouldnt work for me either, I need a full and better coverage, especially for my spots and dark circles! And I wont to appear as an Oompa Loompa lol!:P Btw, I need to try that concealer you suggested, still havent found a perfect one so far. Have a wonderful week Kim, hugS! xo

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  8. Looks like great products!
    x Sandra

    www.morestylethanfashion.com

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  9. Haha Kim your writing always makes me laugh. The difference between Medium and Beige is incredible! Funny actually. You always write such great reviews and this is no exception. I think the fact that you go out and really sample the products instead of just doing the easy thing and using the small testers you were sent, checking colours in different lighting, taking photographs here, there and everywhere, makes you such a reliable and credible reviewer. I'm not big on Benefit at all and from your review, I'm even less convinced, so I'm not going to be running to their counter any time soon. Their packaging is unique and quirky though, that I can give. Hope you're doing well. Rosemary x

    rosemaryofelephants.blogspot.com

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  10. Wow... Looks like they need to spend a bit of time on product developing before putting it in shops... And I am puzzled about the colour choices...

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  11. Hahaha oompa loompa :) Long time since I left a comment but I wanted to say that your blog always makes me hunggryyy for more :p The colour choices are... peculiar :) haha

    xx

    lifeisroyalty.blogspot.com

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  12. That's so surprising that they only do six shades. It's unlikely that the six will suit all their potential customers out there. I agree that products like this have to be tried in store and then looked at in daylight too as shop lighting can be so deceptive. A very honest and helpful review, Kim. Enjoy your week.
    http://missbbobochic.blogspot.co.uk/

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  13. So happy you did this honest review and impressive. I purchase that product and return it because it does look orange and I was so disappointed I love Benefits and this one I had to give it a thumbs down.
    http://tifi11.blogspot.com

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  14. hmmm...yea.... a bit too orange for me as well maybe the medium would work but....probbly not...
    Jenn
    A Beautiful Zen

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  15. i can't test stuff on my hand. it's way lighter than my face! love the display of the product. cute.

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  16. Kim, gottz to love ur reviews. Hahahaha....you're a riot!
    And yeah....those girls, esp. the first one did look orange....eeeek! Watching that last review right now:D
    Happy Monday! XOXO

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  17. i love benefit but this shades don't cover fine
    I posted a new outfit, I'd love to know your opinion
    would you like to pass from my blog?
    kiss

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  18. Great post! That packaging is so cute! =)

    http://whattostyle.blogspot.com/

    xoxo,
    Jess

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  19. Kim your writing always makes me laugh. You always write such great reviews and this is no exception. That's so surprising that they only do six shades. I agree that products like this have to be tried in store and then looked at in daylight too as shop lighting can be so deceptive. I'm really impressed by your review, thanks sweetie! Hope you had a fabulous weekend! Happy Monday

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  20. Oh my no one likes an orange face! It doesn't seem like it can provide much coverage for those that don't have normal skin. At least the packaging is cute!

    xoxo,
    Chic 'n Cheap Living

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  21. Lovely swatches dear....the packaging looks cute....xoxoxo...^_^

    http://mariahussain.blogspot.com/

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  22. Hi Kim, thanks for your honesty, I have olive skin so this won't work for me either, I find that a lot of the benefit products only really compliment very fair skin tones. Sounds like a lovely formula though. Thanks for stopping by...Wishing you a productive week ahead!

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  23. That is a bummer that none of the shades worked for you. Frankly they all look on the orange side and no one wants to be orange!

    -Sharon
    The Tiny Heart
    Betsey Johnson Giveaway!

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  24. Great review, its a bit expensive. Love the packaging. Lol at the orange face.
    effortlesslady.blogspot.ca

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  25. ah too bad there aren't more shades! i always do enjoy your reviews though! so informative and you always make them so fun!

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  26. lovely packaging, wish this came in even more shades!

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  27. The packaging and marketing concepts is pretty fun so it's a bummer that they struck out on the actual product itself. Crazy how there are only 6 shades and that some of them skew orange. Thanks for the honest review Kim! I think I'll be staying away from this one.

    Rowena @ rolala loves

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  28. Wow--- based on your review, this is definitely not for me! Thanks for the heads up!

    ~Alexis Grace of North On Harper

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  29. It's very annoying when you can't find the right shade for your skin!

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  30. Oh gosh, Kim - those shades! They're awful. There are a lot of Benefit products I love but they always fall apart when it comes to foundations and powders. There simply aren't enough shades and none of them are ever quite right. The circus theme was such a cute idea, but it seems like Benefit should have concentrated more of their efforts on the product, and less on the packaging.
    xox,
    Cee

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  31. I love that your reviews are always so honest. Great review Kim.

    Meg | Meghan Silva's Blog

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  32. Wow I've always been so nervous to try products like this to find the right color for my skin tone. But I love Benefit products and would definitely want to try.

    Meag xx
    travelwritedraw.blogspot.com

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  33. I HATE when companies do that! I have very, very fair skin and most foundation is still too dark (orange, like you said), or, it ends up being clear. I am so sorry that you had a hard time with this product, your review cracks me up though!

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  34. Um, just wow. Cute packaging, but a disappointing product.

    http://lamentinglizzie.blogspot.com

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  35. Hm, I think this would work for me since I meet all the requirements you mentioned xD But I think this is too expensive for me D: Too bad it didn't work very well for you!

    Neko Bunny U=・ x ・=U

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  36. I really want to try this aha, but you're right, how can Benefit expect to sell a product if they can't provide for all skin tones?

    Also, the orange tones are a little worrying...

    Shannon Rebecca | Fashion, Beauty & Lifestyle

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  37. Kim, the packaging is really cute but based on your review, I don't think I'll try it. Have a great week too!

    xo Jo

    http://www.whiterosesandcoffee.com

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  38. Good review!!!


    http://shareasecretmag.com/

    xoxo

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  39. Who wants to be an oompa loompa ha ha - not me. Great review and great tip. Thanks sweets
    Ax

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  40. I love the packaging of Benefit's products !

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  41. Such a cool review!! :))

    sisepuedee.blogspot.dk
    -Milla

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  42. It looks like great product, I adore design of it, but I've dry skin, so won't be good for me. :)

    http://crafty-zone.blogspot.com/

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  43. It's not very easy to find the right shade of a concealer. Thanks for sharing this review, dear!
    Kisses
    Oriana

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  44. Great review Kim....I love their packaging but always stick to my own fail safe products! Have a good week:)
    ~Anne

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  45. Awesome review hun! I've just discovered your blog and love your system for rating products...there's just soooo much information out there it can tend to get completely overloaded...now that I know Big Easy's still got a bit of issues (orangina? bleh!) I'll hold out for something better!

    Keep up the amazing work!

    xo-Julie
    Peace. Love. LOL!

    Haute Khuuture Blog

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  46. the packaging is cute. however, it's a shame that the darker shade makes the skin looks orange.

    xx,
    felishmichelle.blogspot.com

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  47. Hmm... This product doesn't sound very good to me, although any company that doesn't provide for a wide range of skin tones already gets a thumbs down in my book. I've noticed a lot of otherwise nice looking girls with orange like makeup on too, and I think it's actually becoming some kind of beauty trend, but don't ask me why!

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  48. Oh no, what a let down! Benefit usually do really good makeup but the orange tint is a no no for me!

    Corinne x
    www.skinnedcartree.com

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  49. Yes it is amazing how different something can look under different lights. In Sephora you always look great b/c of the lighting there. Daylight forgives nothing and is the most accurate. It IS very hard to find the right shade. Great review. I use Benefits High Beam and I like it.

    Allie of ALLIE NYC
    allienyc.com

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  50. The review are always fantastic, the Oompa Loompa make me laught and so Happy to read your post always

    Ciao Kim

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  51. Great review and package. :-) I just love reading your reviews - you really get into it.

    missymayification.blogspot.co.uk

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  52. Love the presentation
    Looks so beautiful. I love your review
    So much to learn.
    Amazing blog.
    xoxo
    http://stunningchic.com/

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  53. Oh man, I'm glad you did a review. I thought of trying this, but thank goodness I read your review first! I'm really pale right now, but my skin is DRY! If I don't moisturize after a shower my skin will (literally) flake away. And those darker shades are definitely orange. Blech.

    Great review!

    http://howtomakehome.blogspot.com

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  54. I love the humour that you always incorporate in your reviews, funny as always. I'd love to try this product, you are right, the best way to try it is go to the shop itself, or you can ask for a sample to take home, I do this all the time, I have to try the product many times before I decide if its the right product for me or not. Have a great day Kim!! :)

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  55. I love benefit makeup but I've never tried this product! Such a great idea to have pictures with different lighting!

    Maggie
    www.PolishedClosets.com

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  56. You are so right I don't know why they are not more colors!!! I didn't try it, my skin is dry! xoxo

    http://stylesensemoments.blogspot.com/

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  57. None of those colours would suit my skin tone. Thanks for sharing, I can skip past this one in the aisle.. ;)

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  58. I can't get over the packaging, it is too cute!

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  59. Hi Kim, wow I'm really surprised with the color of the foundation. Usually benefit has good products. I love their mascara! Thanks for the review.
    Julie

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  60. looks awesome :) xx
    www.ambifashion.com

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  61. The concealer is sounds good but the popcorn is a No. I have such a dry skin too.

    http://www.attraction2fashion.com

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  62. Ugh, and this is why I've given up on face makeup. Lol I fail at picking out the right shade for me. I need to hire a personal beautician to find the right products.
    I'll stick to my eyemakeup! Lol

    The Dragonfruit Diaries

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  63. Haha, love the oompa loompa photo x

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  64. Oh wow, you're African-American. I honestly thought you had Asian in you. I am so wrong! Anyways, I'm sorry to hear this didn't work for you. The positive at least now you know. :)

    http://ahleessa4realz.blogspot.com/

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  65. great review sweety!
    happy day!

    http://www.getcarriedaway.net/

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  66. Thanks for the great review Kim. I was wondering about this one. I too have tanned skin so I think I will give this one a miss. Hope you are well. Xxx

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  67. Oh that's too bad, I usually adore benefit products :) But no to anything too orange that I look like a carrot.

    - Che

    style-che.com

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  68. I love the theme and displays, but wow I can't believe how orange that shade is, I think I'll skip buying/trying this product. Thanks for reviewing this, Kim, hope you're having a great week :)

    LittlePinkRainBoots.blogspot.com

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  69. Hahaha, an entire bag of pop of corn? I will too in a heart beat. It must be yummy too!

    Beautiful post dear and thanks for your honest review..always

    http://www.thefashionstirfry.com

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  70. What a shame, their marketting is always so great, but i actually only use their eyeshadows and have never even had the desire to try their foundations...guess I dont need to.

    Aesthetic Lounge

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  71. Anything is worth it if you get to eat an entire bag of popcorn in the process!

    xx Hélène
    www.FashionOverReason.com

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  72. Kim this is great review. I never have been fan of Benefit. I don't think they works for me, I don't like packaging and I think it's overpriced. The quality isn't there.

    xoxo Ra

    http://www.ramona-strikeapose.blogspot.ie/

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  73. What a great review sweetie! That is a shame, but good to know! ;)

    Diana
    www.ManhattanImageandStyle.com
    New Blog Post: [Outfit Idea] .A Colorful Scarf.
    Previews Blog Post: [Inspiration] .You Are Not Alone In Your Walk.

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  74. oo man these colors do not look like they would match me at all!!
    www.amemoryofus.blogspot.com

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  75. oo man these colors do not look like they would match me at all!!
    www.amemoryofus.blogspot.com

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  76. That stinks! My youngest daughter has a very dark complexion. Hopefully by the time she is old enough to wear makeup, this problem will resolved. Great review.
    Cheers and following,
    L A
    .Ravishing-Ruby.blogspot.com.
    . RAVISHING on Bloglovin’ here.

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  77. The marketing has definitely sucked me in! I love the circus and plan to perform in it someday...so I would have bought this in a heartbeat. Thankfully you posted this review!! I might give it a try if I see it in stores, as it could work for my pale complextion.

    <3
    Harlynn
    mindyourmadness.blogspot.com

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  78. Omg who wants orange? I didn't expect that from Benefit. Currently I'm using Makeup Forever Liquid Foundation. If you have dry skin it's not advisable, because it has a very powdery finish. Have you tried Marc Jacobs foundation? I would like to know what you think about it :-)
    Baci,
    Coco
    Coco et La vie en rose / Bloglovin / Facebook

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  79. Omg who wants orange? I didn't expect that from Benefit. Currently I'm using Makeup Forever Liquid Foundation. If you have dry skin it's not advisable, because it has a very powdery finish. Have you tried Marc Jacobs foundation? I would like to know what you think about it :-)
    Baci,
    Coco
    Coco et La vie en rose / Bloglovin / Facebook

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  80. Oh jeez, I totally agree with you! A lot of those girls look orange, and I would hate to walk out the door looking like that! Benefit does have a history of not covering the entire range of shades for every race out there which is really unfortunate :( I still do love their Hello Flawless foundation and other products though. I'll be skipping this one!

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  81. Eeeps such orange shading
    and tones :c
    Thanks for sharing these
    swatches with us! Xx

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  82. Great review! I love benefit more for its packaging than its products. I wish we had benefit counters in India.
    Keep in touch
    xx
    www.JuneWantsItAll.com

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  83. Definitely the colors are not very favorable

    www.urbanikamoda.blogspot.com

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  84. Having a wide selection for purposes of match is so important! I had to laugh at the "orange" reference! Back in the 70's, there were several products on the market that would give an orange tint to the skin--and we girls avoided those brands like the plague! Great review--and I am now going to grab myself some popcorn--as that sounds fab! xx T. http://tickledpinkwoman.blogspot.com

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  85. Good review, it's sad that there are not more variety in shades. For me, this would not work as my skin has very yellow undertones. Nobody wants to look like an oompa loompa, haha.

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  86. Great review! I was going to use 100 of my sephora points on a sample size of this, but I chose not too because I like more full coverage foundations. I wasn't sure if I'd like this or not!

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  87. I love honest reviews! So thank you, tbh I couldn't find my shade either in those 6 shades sadly :(

    www.TheSyedaSisters.blogspot.com

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  88. Thanks Kim for always giving us your 2 cents and honest reviews on products you mention and featured here. I might have to check this out on one of these days trip to Ulta near me. The packaging is so true of Benefit.

    xo
    Sam
    http://fabulouspetite.blogspot.com

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  89. I tried it in stores ... I Love it !
    This Will be my next fondation Im Gonna buy. Even for the price un Euros its quite expensive cause its From America it has à higher cost i think its worth it :)
    Xxx
    Lorna

    Http://lornasharp.blogspot.com

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  90. I burst out laughing when scrolling down to see Oompa Loompa, Kim. Yuck look at the color. Benefits always come up with the cutest packaging but they def have to improve the product quality on this one.

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  91. Oh my these shades look all so unnatural! Finding a good foundation is so hard!
    xx

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  92. OMG, you have always such cute products :)

    http://coco-colo.blogspot.de/

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