NARS Sheer Glow Foundation: Barcelona Weather Test

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Post on Apr 04, 2025

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NARS Sheer Glow Foundation: A Barcelona Summer Showdown

Barcelona in the summer: Think blazing sun, shimmering sea, and… sweat. This isn't exactly the ideal climate for testing makeup, especially a foundation promising a "sheer glow." But I was determined to put NARS Sheer Glow Foundation to the ultimate test: a week of exploring the vibrant streets and beaches of Barcelona during peak summer heat. This review details my experience, focusing on its performance under intense sunshine and humidity.

The Contender: NARS Sheer Glow Foundation

Before we dive into the Barcelona battle, let's talk about the foundation itself. NARS Sheer Glow is a beloved favorite known for its natural, radiant finish. It promises buildable coverage, a comfortable wear, and a dewy, healthy-looking complexion. Key claims include medium buildable coverage, a natural radiant finish, and long-lasting wear. For this test, I used shade Barcelona, naturally (couldn't resist the thematic appropriateness!).

Day 1-3: Exploring the Gothic Quarter & Barceloneta Beach

The first few days involved a lot of walking: navigating the narrow streets of the Gothic Quarter, exploring Gaudi's architectural masterpieces, and finally, relaxing on Barceloneta Beach. The heat was intense, with temperatures consistently above 30°C (86°F) and high humidity.

First Impressions:

• Application: The foundation blended effortlessly using my fingers. It felt lightweight and didn't feel heavy or cakey on my skin.
• Coverage: The sheer to medium coverage was perfect for a hot day. It evened out my skin tone without masking my freckles, giving a very natural look.
• Longevity: This is where things got interesting. While the foundation didn't completely melt away, it did require touch-ups, particularly around my nose and T-zone, after a few hours.

Day 4-7: Park Güell & Montserrat Mountain

These days involved a mix of outdoor sightseeing and more relaxed activities. While the temperatures remained high, I found I needed fewer touch-ups. The foundation seemed to have a better hold when I wasn't directly exposed to the sun for extended periods.

Observations:

• Shine Control: The foundation delivered a natural glow, but it wasn't overly dewy. I did use blotting papers mid-day, especially on the hotter days. This was expected, given the heat and humidity.
• Oil Control: The foundation didn't exacerbate my combination skin, but I still recommend using a setting spray or powder, particularly if you have oily skin.
• Transfer: Minimal transfer was observed onto clothing or phone screens.

The Verdict: Barcelona-Proof? Almost!

NARS Sheer Glow Foundation held up remarkably well considering the extreme conditions of a Barcelona summer. While touch-ups were necessary, this is to be expected with most foundations in such heat. The natural finish and lightweight feel made it a comfortable choice, even in the intense heat.

Pros:

• Natural, radiant finish
• Lightweight and comfortable feel
• Buildable coverage
• Easy to blend

Cons:

• Requires touch-ups in extreme heat and humidity
• Not completely transfer-proof

Final Thoughts:

Would I recommend NARS Sheer Glow for a Barcelona summer? Absolutely, but with a few caveats. Pack blotting papers and setting powder for touch-ups, and you'll be well-equipped to conquer the Catalan capital in style. It’s a fantastic foundation, and its performance, even under pressure, speaks volumes about its quality. For those seeking a natural, radiant look that can handle some heat (but not extreme temperatures continuously), this is a great option. Remember to choose a shade that accurately matches your skin tone for optimal results.