Bourjois 123 Perfect Foundation – Review & swatches

Bourjois 123 Perfect Foundation, in my opinion, is gonna get both rants and raves. Reason? Read more to find that out!

Bourjois 123 Perfect Foundation
Corrects and conceals all blemishes. INNOVATION: 3 correcting pigments, 0 imperfections.

3 color correcting pigments:

• Yellow pigments – conceals dark circles for a rested look
• Mauve pigments – corrects dullness for radiance
• Green pigments – neutralizes redness for an even out the complexion

Soft and smooth formula for an undetectable, second skin finish.

Available in 9 natural shades to suit all skin types.
24hr hydration with SPF 10
Cotton Flower – hydration & anti-shine

Bourjois 123 Perfect Foundation

Bourjois 123 Perfect Foundation

Bourjois 123 Perfect Foundation in Beige ‘Shade 54’ (before & after application)

I am also wearing this foundation here.

My thoughts
Unlike the popular Healthy Mix Foundation, this foundation is not fit for everyone’s skin. It’s absolutely wrong of them to say that it suits all skin types and trick people into getting it. Good news oilies, this one is for you! I just recently ran out of my True Match Foundation and was looking around for a replacement. I and my sister settled for this after going through numerous reviews and swatches –  it’s a tricky task to select a shade online. For me, this is a product rave BUT first let me highlight the cons.

First of all, this foundation comes in a limited number of shades. We only have five shades available in Pakistan which obviously is a huge con. It’s going to be a little confusing for you to decide your match because the shades run quite pale in this range– maybe that’s because of the yellow pigment in it. Anyway, remember, DO NOT go for your usual Bourjois color and opt for one tone darker. Say, I am Shade 53 in Healthy Mix Foundation so Shade 54 is my match in this range. Shade 54 would be suitable for NC 30 Asian skin tone. Secondly, as previously mentioned, this foundation is not at all suitable for dry to normal skin types. The finish is very matte and would be pretty unforgiving on dry patches. I always moisturize my skin before putting on this foundation.

Now the pros. I’ve been using this foundation for past couple of weeks – running out of it super fast – and in all honesty, I absolutely love it! I believe the pigments work really well on my skin. The yellow conceals spots and blemishes, mauve gives a radiant effect to the skin and the green pigment neutralizes redness around my nose. I feel my skin appears smooth and evened out when I use it. It doesn’t completely hide dark circles or zits but covers them to a great extent. With the help of concealer, you can flaunt a flawless skin. BUT keep in mind, it’s a matte foundation. Always moisturize the dry areas on your face to avoid creating flaky spots.

This foundation has somewhat thicker consistency compared to Healthy Mix Foundation. It has a faint distinct floral scent which doesn’t bother me but it could be touch overwhelming if you prefer scent-free products. I'd stress applying it with a kabuki brush and not with fingers or a stippling brush because it’s a hard job to blend. It doesn’t spread out that easily so you need something dense to do the task. For a blended finish, I section up my face and apply it bit by bit with my Sigma F80. You need to work quickly with this product because it sets fast. You can apply it sheer or build up to get a medium coverage out of it.

The thing I enjoy the most about this foundation is the finish of course. Soon after I’ve applied it, it sets matte with a slight powdery feel; it’s not cakey or unnatural. By this, I mean you can skip using your setting/pressed powder. I agree that it gives a second skin effect (if it matches you) and also feels feather light on the skin. It doesn’t clog pores and it doesn’t transfer unlike True Match Foundation which is also a major plus. Of course it wouldn't stay matte all day but considering the scorching heat of Karachi, it does a credible job; it doesn't oxidize and stays put for around good five to six hours on me. A nose touchup may be needed mid-day; after that I’m good till I reach home.

Overall, I personally love this foundation. It has SPF 10, a matte finish, good coverage -- qualities of an ideal summer foundation. I will definitely repurchase.

You might like it if...

• You have a combination to oily skin type.
• You expect a light weight matte finish.
• You can find your match.
• You expect a decent wear up to five hours.
• You want a foundation that doesn't oxidize or transfer.
• You want SPF in your foundation.

 You might not like it if...

• You have a dry to normal skin type.
• It accentuates dry spots (you don't moisturize).
• You expect an easy blending.
• You can't find your match.

My rating
 
4/5

Bourjois 123 Perfect Foundation is priced PKR 2030 on BeautyArena. This was my first purchase from the store and I had a good shopping experience with them. I haven't yet seen this foundation in stores.

Have you tried this foundation? Any foundation suggestions for combination to oily skin type?