By You’re standing in the beauty aisle, staring at Kosas and Makeup by Mario, wondering which will make you look like you actually got eight hours of sleep. Both promise flawless skin, but which delivers on those promises without making you look like a cakey mess?
| Feature | Kosas | Makeup by Mario |
|---|---|---|
| Foundation Shades | 16 | 30 |
| Vegan | ✓ | ✓ |
| Fragrance-Free | ✗ | ✓ |
| SPF Protection | ✓ | ✗ |
| Price Range | $32 – $42 | $20 – $45 |
| Cruelty-Free | ✓ | ✓ |
✅ kosas Pros
- Inclusive and diverse shade range.
- Contains SPF for sun protection.
- Vegan and cruelty-free.
❌ kosas Cons
- Limited availability of certain shades.
- Not fragrance-free, can irritate sensitive skin.
✅ makeup by mario Pros
- Extensive shade range suitable for all skin tones.
- Fragrance-free, ideal for sensitive skin.
- Affordable price range and good value for money.
❌ makeup by mario Cons
- Lacks SPF protection.
- Some products may require frequent touch-ups.
Performance
Kosas delivers a natural, dewy finish that is perfect for those days when you want to fake that “no makeup” makeup look. It blends easily and provides medium coverage, but don’t expect it to cover major blemishes without a little help from concealer. On the other hand, Makeup by Mario offers a more matte finish, which is great if you’re prone to oily skin or need your makeup to last through a full day. It holds up well under hot lights or a sunny day out, but you might find yourself needing a touch-up in the T-zone if you’re on the oily side.
Build Quality
When it comes to the formula, Kosas has a creamier texture, which feels luxurious and hydrating on the skin. However, its lack of fragrance-free options can be a downside for sensitive skin types. Makeup by Mario, with its powdery formulation, is more lightweight and better suited for those who need to avoid shine. Its fragrance-free guarantee is a bonus for those with allergies or sensitive noses, but the formula can feel a bit dry if you don’t prep your skin well beforehand.
Value
Kosas sits at a slightly higher price point, but you’re paying for quality ingredients like botanical oils and mineral pigments. If you’re someone who values sustainability and ethical sourcing, the extra dollars might be worth it. Makeup by Mario offers a wider range of products at a more budget-friendly price, making it a fantastic choice if you’re looking to experiment with different looks without breaking the bank. However, keep in mind that the lack of SPF means you might end up spending more on additional sun protection.
Both brands have their merits, but neither is a one-size-fits-all. Kosas might irritate sensitive skin due to its fragrance, while Makeup by Mario’s lack of SPF may leave you exposed if you skip sunscreen. Both require a bit of trial and error to find the right match for your skin type.
Our Final Verdict: Which One Should You Buy?
If you’re looking for a high-performance foundation that offers sun protection and you’re willing to invest in quality, Kosas is your go-to. It’s perfect for those with normal to dry skin who want a dewy finish. However, if you’re on a budget, have sensitive skin, or need a formula that will hold up all day with a matte finish, Makeup by Mario is the better choice. It’s versatile, affordable, and designed to cater to a wider audience.
Is Kosas suitable for sensitive skin?
While Kosas offers many skin-loving ingredients, its lack of fragrance-free formulas might not be the best for extremely sensitive skin types.
Does Makeup by Mario last all day?
Makeup by Mario provides a matte finish that holds up well under normal conditions, but you might need touch-ups if you have oily skin or are in a particularly humid environment.
Are both brands cruelty-free?
Yes, both Kosas and Makeup by Mario are committed to cruelty-free testing and production practices.
