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When it comes to makeup, we’re always wanting the best items that will elevate our glam to the next level. Whether it’s that latest brow product, the lip stain everyone is wearing, or the setting spray that fixes your look in place, no matter what the day throws at you. However, to achieve that flawless glow, it starts by applying a great foundation that provides a smooth and even layer over the skin setting up for the next steps of your routine.
One brand that always delivers on their products is none other than Nars, and it’s no surprise that they’ve cemented themselves as a cult favourite with many of their products going viral over the years and becoming a nostalgic go-to. Now in 2026, they have just launched their first new foundation in four years.
NARS High-Performance Matte Foundation
Nars’ new Natural Matte Longwear Foundation is designed for anyone who wants a matte finish without the heaviness.
It gives up to 24‑hour shine control, smooths over pores with a soft‑focus effect and still feels lightweight enough for everyday wear.
The skincare element is a real bonus too – the Pore‑Refining Trio works to improve texture and reduce the look of pores in as little as two weeks.
Blending like a serum and setting to a natural matte finish, it’s a comfortable, long‑lasting base that does more than just cover.
Following the success of their Light Reflecting Foundation in February 2022, the brand have just released their new High-Performance Matte Foundation. Of course, this isn’t made just for great coverage, it has been specially formulated with skincare technology to provide its wearers with an added bonus whilst wearing, visibly improving skin texture over time and the appearances of pores in just two weeks.
If you love the look of matte foundation but hate the heavy feel, NARS’ Natural Matte Longwear Foundation honestly might be the sweet spot. The formula promises up to 24 hours of shine control, but the real selling point is how lightweight it feels on the skin.
It sits comfortably in the medium-to-full zone and is easy to build, while the finish gives that soft-focus, slightly blurred effect that helps minimise the look of pores and imperfections with the use of oil-absorbing microspheres. In other words, skin looks smoother and more even, but not overly ‘done’, something we’re all striving for.
It’s also infused with skincare loving ingredients, such as niacinamide to help refine texture and a balancing dipeptide to keep excess oil in check. Micro Greens support elasticity too, which can help improve the appearance of pores with continued use.
The texture itself is more liquid than you might expect from a matte base, blending seamlessly and setting to a natural-looking matte finish that doesn’t feel dry or tight. If you’re after long wear, shine control and coverage that still looks like skin, this one ticks a lot of boxes.
Other shoppers haven’t been shy in singing it’s praises as one said: ‘Hands down the best foundation to exist! Lasts perfectly through the day and no peeling.’
‘The formula gives a beautiful soft-matte finish that looks natural on the skin rather than flat or heavy. It does a great job controlling shine throughout the day while still feeling lightweight and comfortable. It blends smoothly and evens out my skin tone without settling into fine lines or looking cakey. I also appreciate how long it lasts – it stays in place for hours without needing much touch-up,’ said another.
Whilst another commented: ‘I’m obsessed with NARS foundation. It feels so lightweight but still gives amazing coverage. My skin looks smooth, radiant, and natural all day. A little pricey, but totally worth it for that flawless glow.’
We’re sold. Review pending…
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