Foundation Review: CHANEL Vitalumiere Aqua (B10)

After all this time of using the Chanel Vitalumiere Aqua foundation, I didn’t realize I hadn’t reviewed it until someone asked me about it! My apologies for the delay, but here it is as promised. Since its release last summer, word has spread that this is the perfect summer foundation; and, I suppose my review is here just in time.

Chanel’s Vitalumiere Aqua foundation is part of the Vitalumiere line. The regular Vitalumiere foundation is more for drier skins that need hydration and some glow factor, while the Vitalumiere Aqua is generally geared towards those who are on the oily side. The reason why I say this is because of its light and moussey texture that is very gel-like; it blends like a cream and sets instantly to a semi-matte finish. This product also contains a little bit of alcohol, so it works well for those with oilier skins since you stay ungreasy for longer.

Recently introduced this summer, is the new Vitalumiere Aqua COMPACT foundation, which seems to be for those who love the original Vitalumiere Aqua formula but need more hydration and portability. It is a cream foundation and I suspect it’s catered towards drier skin types.

According to http://www.chanel.com: “The tiniest drop of this new hybrid fluid creates a fresh, natural complexion. Skin looks refined and feels refreshed, creating an exquisite makeup experience. The fluid formula has a soft, water-light texture, and comes in 10 shades that match perfectly to skin’s undertones, whether pink or beige. Dermatologist-tested. Non-comedogenic. Oil- free.”

I wear shade B10, which is the lightest shade in the ‘beige’ range. It is a great match for me throughout the year, and I personally don’t reserve this for just the summer months. This foundation is the easiest product to use because it can be applied with just about anything. If I’m lazy I use my fingers; but for the most part, a synthetic buffing brush of any kind will do the trick. For those with pink undertones, look for shades in the ‘beige rose’ range.

This feels so light on the skin and a little goes a long way. Spots, discolorations, redness, and other pigmentation problems are concealed immediately upon application; however, I wouldn’t say that this is full coverage. Though the product neutralizes everything pretty quickly, major problems will still need additional concealing with a concealer. I like that it’s so natural and light, yet it still helps you achieve that perfect-skin look. On “good skin days,” this is all you need before adding some blush and mascara and heading out the door.

I find that I don’t need to powder over this and the semi-matte finish is perfect – not too matte and not too dewy. I think it looks better as the day wears on and the foundation begins to mix with the enviornment around you and your skin’s natural oils. It holds up nicely in heat and humidity; and, apart from some midday blotting, I have no issues with this.

It is heavily fragranced, like all of Chanel’s products. The scent lingers and you can smell it off your face for awhile, so if you’re sensitive to fragrances – beware. Also, as stated eariler, be aware of the alcohol content in this product because I have read that it has caused reactions in some people.

Made in France.
Retails for $45.00.
1 fl. oz. (30 mL)

*Pictures taken using CANON POWERSHOT SD1300 IS DIGITAL ELPH (12.1 Megapixels)