MAC Cosmetics
Studio Fix Powder Plus Foundation — NC5
$39Next to it, NC5 sits at the same depth and carries the same golden cast. Expect a more matte finish.
MAC Cosmetics NC5, a shade of Studio Fix Fluid SPF 15 24HR Buildable Soft-Matte Foundation + Oil Control, suits very fair 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, NC5 sits at the same depth and carries the same golden cast. Expect a more matte finish.
NC5 lands right at the same depth and carries the same golden cast. Expect a more dewy finish.
0W1 Pearl matches the depth closely and keeps the same warm undertone. Expect a more dewy finish.
Next to it, 2G sits at the same depth and carries the same golden cast. Expect a more dewy finish.
On skin, Warm Porcelain (W-016) matches the depth closely and holds the warm undertone.
0 W Warm lands right at the same depth and carries the same golden cast.
On skin, Siberia lands right at the same depth and keeps the same warm undertone.
Angel Food 110N matches the depth closely and pulls a little cooler. Expect a more matte finish.
MAC Cosmetics NC5 has a warm undertone with a golden cast. When comparing alternatives, keeping that golden quality matters as much as getting the depth right.
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.