Max Factor

overall: 8/10

This gets a high rating from me because it's a good basic waterproof mascara. I got this for $3 in clearance so I bought two. I don't usually use waterproof mascaras because I find them to be sticky and unpleasant to remove, even with an oil-based remover. I work indoors and have no need for waterproof makeup. I have the shade Black/Brown. It's a deep brown. I don't find this adds as much length or definition as the regular Masterpiece, which is one of my favourite mascaras, but it's good for everyday. I wouldn't buy it again, I prefer washable mascaras.

While I keep trying other foundations with SPF 20 (sun protection) I keep buying this one. Why? It does not cake, it does not transfer, stays all day and its very smooth and comfortable. I have dry skin and I hydrate it before applying. The package is perfect for travelling and for applying. I use a tiny bit (less than a full pump) and covers my whole face.

"This has to be the most underrated foundation of all time, especially for people with dry skin." - Luzali89

Max Factor's Pan-Stik rocks the versatility: While it is a great foundation, it's also a wonderful concealer, and for me it's usually something in-between, depending on my changing needs. This is my daily go-to product as I don't use a lot of base cosmetics anymore and, based on performance and value for money, I can't recommend it enough.

It's been around forever, relatively inexpensive, easy to use, convenient, takes up little space on my stand-up cosmetics desk, and pops into my handbag for easy travel or touch-ups. But don't let this little stick fool you, it's super creamy and blendable with unrivaled coverage for the price. I apply the product directly to mask any redness around my nose or conceal any darkness under my eyes, then blend with an oval contour brush. Thirty seconds from start to finish if I'm slow and, illusion of perfect skin achieved, I can save my more expensive BB cream for special occasions and nights out.

Quick, easy, simple, neat and it works. Lasts for hours. Doesn't itch, burn or sting, or interfere with other products. If you like cream or stick blushes and shadows, this is ideal as the textures will be compatible, and it even makes a great shadow primer. If you're worried about possible transfer, hit it with a light dusting of fine setting powder before you walk out the door. Amazingly enough, this doesn't feel heavy or greasy on my combination skin and wears well throughout the day into night.

Packaging is small but durable and I should know; I'm forever dropping things as I'm clumsy or in a hurry. I think they manufacture this in Ireland, which accounts for why it's everywhere in the UK, but in the states it's easier for me to grab this online from Walmart, Amazon or eBay. US sellers can charge anywhere from 7-12 USD a stick. Pick a trusted, well-rated seller with a good return policy to be more certain you're purchasing a genuine product. I grab a three-pack for less than 20 USD and one stick lasts me months. Unopened, it hasn't gone off and I wipe the product I'm using weekly when I clean my brushes.

The only drawback is the limited range. If you're waxing between shades, I recommend choosing the lighter one but note the possible pink or yellow undertones. You can always warm up a slightly lighter or cooler shade with a bit of well-placed bronzer, or use it as a concealer or highlighter. Choose a shade that's too dark, or overly pink or yellow, and you may find yourself out of pocket. If it helps, I'm a true neutral, a very light medium, and True Beige works for me.

I added photos so you could see some shade choices and the product swatched on skin in varying light. Cheers!

This is for Glossfinity in cerise - a beautiful vibrant orangey red gel varnish. Great coverage, lasts all week - no chips. One of the best colours and polishes I have used

I'll get the bad out of the way first.

The black plastic case for the Pan Stik breaks fairly easily. I've had to tape it up to keep it together. The case cracks down the middle, and then the bottom falls off.

Will that keep me from using this excellent product? Never!

I've worn this makeup from when I was a teenager. I'm now a senior citizen and I love it just as much. Oh I've spent loads of money on other foundations from department stores including Estee Lauder, Bobbi Brown, MAC, Bare Escentuals, It Cosmetics, and several others from QVC. They're okay but I always wind up going back to my Pan Stik. It never disappoints me! I wear the #13 Nouveau Beige, and it's perfect for my complexion. It's not shiny or oily on me, it glides on and I use my fingers to gently spread it around. I do use a concealer when I need it, and sometimes I use Touch Eclat as a brightener, but I don't really need it.

I will use this product forever!!