The skin care industry seems to evolve at record speed. New ingredients and technologies arrive on the scene and become the “it” thing, and then almost as quickly, something new takes its place. It isn’t as though the trending ingredients cease to work, it is that chemists and researchers are constantly working to find the best ingredients (and exact varieties of those ingredients), delivery systems, and formulas to treat and protect skin. One brand that is consistently attuned to and incorporating these discoveries in their formulas is Macrene Actives. 

Helmed by Dr. Macrene Alexiades (double-Board-Certified Dermatologist, professor, working practitioner, and holder of three Harvard degrees…casual), the brand is always updating their products to reflect the latest and greatest innovations. This commitment to brand and product evolution, dedication to efficacy, and streamlined approach to skin care (Dr. Macrene doesn’t believe in layering too many products, instead choosing to pack her formulas with high concentrations of actives delivered through a unique liposomal system) have long made VIOLET STAFFERS fans of the line, so when the brand told us they were bringing their revolutionary, clean approach to skin care and anti-aging to a formula that also provided nearly-invisible, skin-perfecting, and blurring coverage, we were more than enthusiastic to try it.

Excited to test this makeup/treatment hybrid, we were also slightly skeptical as many “tinted moisturizers” are really just sheer foundations with some hydrating properties, not true active formulas that leave skin better than they found it. 

Putting aside our reservations, we dispensed a tiny amount of product (per direction from the brand), dotted it on different areas of the face, and blended. Instantly, we could tell this formula was unique–the pea-sized amount of velvety cream effortlessly covered the entire face, “breaking apart” and spreading with elegant ease. The finish was supremely skin-like (the formula adjusts to match one’s skin tone perfectly) and left a radiant, moisturized glow that provided the perfect base for blush and bronzer while feeling utterly weightless. Even better, with continued use, STAFFERS noticed skin that was brighter and firmer with diminished dark spots and wrinkles. Seeing those 50+ active ingredients working their magic on our skin, we didn’t hesitate to send this to the Committee of Industry Experts to see what they made of this exceptional product.

“I love the way this gives beautiful coverage and doubles as active skin care. The finish is soft and seamless, with a single drop lasting all day.”
—NILE ABBAI, Makeup Artist

“Never have I ever found a tinted moisturizer that looked more like skin, even when applying multiple layers over problem areas over breakouts, uneven skin, under eye circles (which this works to cover). It also lasted the entire day, giving that perfect no makeup, makeup finish.”
—ELIZABETH GRACE HAND, Aesthetician

“This is a win for me based on the visible performance of the active ingredients. Plus, I love that it’s not at all greasy.”
—NAI'VASHA GRACE JOHNSON, Hairstylist

With both testers and STAFFERS using this formula as an alternative to their daily moisturizer (with the added benefits of natural coverage and active ingredients) Macrene Actives’ High Performance Tinted Moisturizer is officially VIOLET CODE APPROVED and has earned a place on THE SHELVES.