MAC Cosmetics
Studio Fix Fluid — NC45
$39NC45 matches the depth closely and carries the same golden cast. Expect a more natural finish.
MAC Cosmetics NC45, a shade of Studio Fix Powder Plus Foundation with 24HR Oil Control + Blur-Matte Finish, 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.
NC45 matches the depth closely and carries the same golden cast. Expect a more natural finish.
NC45 matches the depth closely and carries the same golden cast. Expect a more dewy finish.
On skin, Golden 4 lands right at the same depth and carries the same golden cast. Expect a more natural finish.
Golden matches the depth closely and carries the same golden cast. Expect a more natural finish.
4Y60 Warm Almond sits at the same depth and carries the same golden cast. Expect a more natural finish.
Golden 3 sits at the same depth and pulls a little cooler. Expect a more natural finish.
On skin, 46S Tan-Deep Sand runs a touch lighter and carries the same golden cast.
Next to it, 4W1 Honey Bronze runs a touch lighter and carries the same golden cast. Expect a more dewy 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.
Tarte Cosmetics Amazonian clay 16-hour full coverage soft matte foundation in 46S Tan-Deep Sand (around $18) wears closest among budget options — on skin, 46S Tan-Deep Sand runs a touch lighter and carries the same golden cast.
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.