We’re all feeling the pinch in the cost-of-living crisis, and while I never used to bat an eyelid about forking out more than three figures on a “cult” foundation, now I pause more and consider the alternatives.
One such alternative brand that has built up a huge cult following for its incredible products at affordable prices is MCoBeauty.
Owned by Shelley Sullivan, the brand has a reputation for creating “perfect dupes” of high-end luxury products that shoppers rush to buy and try out.
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The latest MCoBeauty drop to hit my desk is the brand’s new Cheek and Lip Stain 2-in-1 Liquid Tint ($16), which shoppers are already labelling as a “perfect dupe” for Benefit’s Benetint ($42).
Like the famous Benefit product — which has a home in bathroom cabinets around the world — the new $16 MCoBeauty buy is a water-based tint that provides a burst of rosy red colour, whether you apply it on your cheeks and lips.
Long-lasting and smudge-resistant, it promises a natural-looking finish, much like you’ve just returned from a long country walk.
When you use a couple of dabs, the formula begins as a barely-there flush.
But it can be quickly and easily built upon when layered — giving you the pinky perfect cheeks of your dreams.
Having had this with me for the past two weeks and tried it on numerous days, I can confirm there is much to love about MCoBeauty’s Cheek and Lip Stain (and that comes from an OG fan of Benetint).
I love the doe foot applicator that makes it quick and easy to apply as much or as little product as you want.
I also love that it’s easy to blend but it does settle quickly, whether you’re using your fingers or a brush.
I’ve been wearing this both on “makeup days” in the office and weekend days at home when I might not apply a full face of makeup, but rather a layer of SPF, a tinted moisturiser and this cheek and lip stain.
It’s all housed in a stylish little bottle that won’t feel out of place in your handbag or at home on your makeup counter.
Of course, if the cheek and lip stain isn’t for you, MCoBeauty also have an extensive range of other new products that might tickle your fancy.
From the Peptide Lip Treatment ($18), which is almost identical to Hailey Bieber’s viral Rhode product, to the Summer Daze Lip Tinted Oils ($18), there’s something for everyone.
I’ve been keeping various shades of the Lip Tinted Oils on my desk at work and in my bag since they came out, and I find myself constantly reaching for them.
For more information and to browse MCoBeauty’s extensive range, head here now.