MAC Cosmetics
Studio Radiance Serum Powered Foundation — NC45
$46Next to it, NC45 matches the depth closely and carries the same golden cast. Expect a more dewy finish.
MAC Cosmetics NC45, a shade of Studio Fix Fluid SPF 15 24HR Buildable Soft-Matte Foundation + Oil Control, suits tan skin with a warm, golden-leaning undertone. The golden cast is what people usually try to keep when they look for alternatives. Below are the alternatives that wear closest to it — each one noted with how it differs, so you know what you're trading before you buy.
Next to it, NC45 matches the depth closely and carries the same golden cast. Expect a more dewy finish.
NC45 matches the depth closely and carries the same golden cast. Expect a more matte finish.
Side by side, Caracas sits at the same depth and pulls a little cooler.
Churro 415N lands right at the same depth and pulls a little cooler. Expect a more matte finish.
Next to it, 52W matches the depth closely and pulls a little cooler. Expect a more dewy finish.
15 runs a touch lighter and holds the warm undertone. Expect a more dewy finish.
Side by side, Deep 1 runs a touch deeper and carries the same golden cast.
Side by side, 5W2 Rich Caramel runs a touch deeper and carries the same golden cast. Expect a more matte finish.
MAC Cosmetics NC45 has a warm undertone with a golden cast. When comparing alternatives, keeping that golden quality matters as much as getting the depth right.
Estée Lauder NEW Double Wear Stay-in-Place Lightweight Matte Foundation in 5W2 Rich Caramel (around $10) wears closest among budget options — side by side, 5W2 Rich Caramel runs a touch deeper and carries the same golden cast. Expect a more matte finish.
A shade never wears alone — it sits next to your concealer, blush and the rest of your routine. Toni at Shade & Seek reads the whole face, not just one swatch, so you can see any of these alternatives in context before buying.