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MAC
Category: Beauty and Spas Makeup Artists Makeup Artists [Edit]
7001 Mumford RdHalifax, NS B3L 4N9
(902) 453-2454
- Hours:
Mon-Sat 9:30 am - 9 pm
Sun 12 pm - 5 pm
- Price Range:
-
$$$
- Accepts Credit Cards:
- Yes
- Parking:
- Garage, Private Lot
- By Appointment Only:
- No
- Wheelchair Accessible:
- Yes
12 reviews for MAC
12 reviews in English
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Review from Brittney K.
Halifax, NS
12/16/2010
So. I'm usually an advocate for skin-conscious, mineral-based, pure makeup, but for MAC, I'm willing to make an exception to the rule.
For one thing, MAC has all these great, vibrant shades that you just can't get with any other makeup brand- so for nights on the town when I want to make a splash against my Little black dress, I spring for my trusty neon pink MAC lipstick and jet black liner. Bold and beautiful!!
Also, the staff are wicked helpful. When I first started wearing makeup, I was a total klutz and had no clue how to buy makeup (we're talking about someone who thought primer only went on walls! Ha!). The lovely ladies at MAC were really helpful (this was back in my Ottawa days- but the ladies at the HFax location are always helpful, too!). And if you stop by on a day when the store isn't crazy busy, they'll do your makeup for you, which is especially great if you're new to the whole makeup deal.
The stuff here isn't exactly cheap, but that's cause it's good stuff that isn't flakey or cakey like some other brands (**you might think otherwise if you see all the makeup on the staff- but if you use the whole "everything in moderation, little goes a long way" approach, the stuff can look sophisticated, and you won't need a chisel to get it off.
So there you have it- MAC has great products, especially for those who are into really vibrant and unique colors. Those who like the natural, mineral brands might not feel as inspired, but give it a whirl, because there are some great finds. -
Review from Lori M.
4/16/2012 1 Check-in Here
I started using MAC in 1996 when it was carried by Totally Yours off Spring Garden. When they opened a store here I was so excited.
Let me start again... My name is Lori and I love makeup.
The products without a doubt rank in my favourite things, this store however challenges my sanity.
It is always crowded, you can never get assistance (or if you do it is fleeting and more of a load you up with product and hustle you to the cash). I have stopped going to product launches as it is a nightmare of crowding and not being able to glance much less look at the product.
They always seem to have staff - just never quite enough for the demand. Selecting makeup always takes time when testing colours, formulations you prefer and applications. For me, now I do my research online - go to the cash, ask for the items and beat a hasty retreat.
I love the products so A-OK. I may just have to do online - this last Saturday confirmed it. -
Review from Angela H.
10/28/2010 6 Check-ins Here
I have been using MAC for a fee years now. At first I started out like most, just a couple of basic everyday eye shadows, but I gradually started to infiltrate more MAC products into my daily makeup routine.
I have to say I use pretty much all MAC now in my daily routine. I'm very VERY impressed with the high pigmentation (the color you see is the color you get!), longevity (defiantly on strong from 9-5!), and quantity. Now I say quantity because I have had pieces in their line I purchased and used on a daily basis that lasts me for MONTHS. Most of the stuff I don't use sparingly anymore either! I've had powder compacts and blushes and eye shadows last me all year too boot! I honestly find the price you pay in the end is well worth it! How many times have we purchased $5 eye shadow from the drug store only to have it fall flat?! And what happens when your skin tone falls between the colors and you only have 3-5 options?
MAC clerks are also extremely well trained and very knowledgable in all things makeup. Not sure how to cover a blemish? Want to make your small eyes look big? Want to cover up dark circles under your eyes? What about that flawless porcelain skin? They can answer it all! Just ask! Don't be shy. They've heard it all before! They'll help plain Janes who are just looking for mascara and foundation to the divas in all of is who want the cat eye paired with some bright purple! What about learning how to do a proper smokey eye? They've taught me a lot and I've seen them teach the makeup challenged.
One of the perks is you can return something if you don't like it. Just hang onto your receipt and return it within 30 days!
All in all. Go in. Talk and try. You'll be happy you gave it a shot. -
Review from Shawna D.
Chester, NS
3/11/2010
I have to agree with Courtney on the excessive makeup worn by the girl at Mac. I guess the saying a little does a lot , does not apply here.
I am not sure if it is a mission to use all the colours at once or what. However the saying "beauty is in the eyes of the beholder".
I do have M.A.C. makeup and like it. I bought the cream/powder foundation. I am not a fan of heavy makeup, so I like the natural minerals as much as possible. I did have a look at the lip gloss that I read in a magazine was suppose to be the best. I will try that next time.
I did get some info from the lady who served me, she said M.A.C. was bought a few years ago by Estee Lauder. Now we all know that brand. She also said M.A.C. does not do any advertising. I am a fan of MAC but it is pricey, so I am very selective of what I buy. -
Review from Laura P.
4/12/2010
MAC's solid in-store expertise and consistent range of product has kept me coming back for years. Its brand is built on innovative, ahead of the curb trends and attention to all types of beauty.
If it isn't your fancy to talk face to face at the store, there is an ulterior method in obtaining professional advice. Clicking onto the website, users have the option to email questions to a real MAC professional about anything make-up related.
When I was just getting into cosmetics, I took advantage of this option and was written back within a few days. (These MAC artists have bios featured on the website.) I described in depth my skin tone, eye shape and colour, hair colour and requested some recommendations for a natural but polished look. She made some suggestions that I still go by today, as well as some application tips. (Eg. how to make my 'lil eyes look more full.) I've been using the same SPF foundation, "Teddy" eye liner and "Fling" eyebrow pencil for about 4 years! Lipsticks come and go... but there are definitely some MAC items I've come accustom to. FYI: Shipping is pretty inexpensive as well.
But I'd strongly encourage anyone to pop into the store its handy. Service is smart and professional, and you can get some great tips! The last time I was there my sister got a full education on her skin type, right down to the derma science. MAC employees know their stuff. (Plus they're fun to look at)
Another perk to MAC is their eco conscious. They encourage customers to return empty containers that will be reproduced! For every 6 you bring in, you get a free lipstick or eyeshadow. I've taken advantage many 'a time.
One thing I wouldn't recommend about MAC is their mascara. I've purchased it in the past, but have found drugstore mascara to be much better and at a cheaper price.
Overall MAC is a staple spot for cosmetics and expert opinion. Its store, website and staff are always inspired and passionate about what they do. This makes the difference. -
Review from Bethany J.
Halifax, NS
4/8/2010
MAC isn't so much a simply cosmetic store as it is a a make-up experience. Salespeople are generally made up in wild and fanciful make-up palettes, but never fear: their skill and artistry will work for you if you give them a chance to demonstrate.
MAC cosmetic salespeople really know their product. I've gone in several times not really knowing what I needed and each time they've directed me to the appropriate product for my needs.
I tend to stick to drugstore makeup for everyday, but the MAC store supplies my higher-end product for nights and weekends when I want to break loose from the 9-5 look.
Tip: Try their brightening cream under eyes to reflect light away from dark circles. It works magic! -
Review from Lacey H.
5/21/2010
Going into MAC makes me feel a tad on the coo-coo bananas side. The lights, the music, the pounds of foundation and lipstick adorning each employee's face - it's a bit of a jungle.
I've been into this location on a few occasions, usually with an amiga who wants to suss something out. I must admit, I do love discovering what new hues are on offer, and the color palates can often be pretty exciting. The staff are a helpful, inventive and attentive bunch, who are prepared to slather you in concoctions until you look like either a babe or a clown (there's a fine line).
I visited this location with my sis once and stood there for half an hour while one of the makeup artists decked out my sibling's peepers. She looked great and the high caliber customer service was definitely commendable, but I must say, that I still don't love this store. I think mainly it's the lights. Yeah, it's got to be those lights. It's like an interrogation against your naked, makeup free skin. I feel like the sun is coming crashing towards earth, and it's all happening inside of MAC's makeup bag of a store.
So alas, I'm not a MAC fiend. I like the odd product, but I'd prefer to spend my makeup dollars on mineral based, body conscious, earth conscious, natural makeup products. Good on the employees for sporting so much facial coverage - at least they're devoted and creative. -
Review from Courtney M.
Halifax, NS
11/20/2009
Although brimming with every type of colourful cosmetic and makeup item imaginable, I still find the M.A.C. store in the Halifax Shopping Center a little much in more ways than one. First of all, the makeup artist/drag queen look doesn't exactly instill confidence in the average female makeup user. Most of whom don't typically wear fluorescent eye shadow.
On top of this, the M.A.C. products are all extremely expensive! Even the more unique products that I would be interested in purchasing are often outrageously priced. Ex: little holiday sets in 'Pinkzapoppin' come with: "Dainty mineralize blush, love connection mineralize eye shadow (duo) and mini buffer" all for (wait for it......) $71.50! GASP!
Overall, M.A.C. does have some great products but I would recommend hitting them up for your daily makeup staples as opposed to that lime green eye shadow that you're going to wear maybe 5 times ever and will cost 75% less at a regular drugstore. A few of my M.A.C. staple favs are: powerpoint eye pencil in 'grey utility' and eye shadows in 'club' and 'shale.'
The makeup artists at this M.A.C. location are pretty forceful as well, so watch out! -
Review from Katie M.
Halifax, NS
4/11/2010
I consider myself to be pretty girly, I wear makeup (I can't leave the house without mascara) and I like to spend money pampering myself, but even with those things considered I don't understand what the big deal is about MAC makeup. Ever since I saw a nearly $20 price tag on a friends MAC lip gloss tube I've been sceptical of the brand, but I decided to give the store in Halifax Shopping Centre a chance anyway.
Everything comes in fluorescent colors which are very scary to me, and the female employees at this location did nothing to ease my mind. Everyone was caked with this makeup, and a few girls were helping customers find shades of eye shadow and helping with application. It was a big step for me but when one of the staff (coincidentally she was wearing the brightest makeup in the store) asked me if I wanted a free application I said sure.
I wasn't pleased with the outcome, I looked like I had a butterfly hiding on each eyelid, but I did find a great foundation for dry skin that the girl who was applying my makeup recommended for me. I still don't understand the draw of most of the MAC products, but the friendly staff and clean and cool looking displays made the trip bearable.
Hot Hint: The foundation that I picked up is lightweight and SPF 15 so it's great to cover you in the sun (but of course use sunscreen for extended exposure). -
Review from D B.
Halifax, NS
3/22/2011
I have been using MAC cosmetics for almost 20 years - I am glad the store is still in the Halifax Shopping Centre - I have not had a bad experience shopping there as I know in advance what I want and the shade I need (which the staff very much appreciates!) - when I do go it is usually on a Saturday so this helps to streamline the process - I have been using the same shades for a long time and I find the quality consistent. Just great makeup!
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Review from cheryl d.
Halifax, NS
3/20/2010 1 photo
I'm a big fan of Mac makeup! I have been using Mac makeup for 2 years now and I will never switch to anything else!
I use their liquid foundation because it goes on smooth and about 2 minutes after applying it, it sets on your face to give you that 'finished' porcelain look. Following the liquid, I use a powder to blend. I use a bit of blush and then some eye primer followed by their eye shadows. I recently purchased their mascara but for the price that I paid, I wouldn't buy it again. I find the drugstore brands are just as good but a lot cheaper. I would never use any makeup brushes other than theirs. I believe you can't draw a good picture without a good paint brush and the same applies to makeup. They last forever and stand up to anything! Mine are 2 years old and look brand new.
One bonus with Mac Makeup is that if you return 6 empty packages to their store, you get a free eye shadow or lipstick!
I find the staff incredibly helpful but a little on the 'pushy' side when it comes to selling their product. I'm sure they make a heavy commission on the products they sell because they sell me just about anything. I have to go in their on a budget and stick to it!
I will never buy any other makeup other than Mac! Love it! -
Review from Maria C.
4/14/2010
I've been to a lot of MAC stores in and out of Canada, and perhaps I scored, but I had a fantastic time my last round in there; the staff are folks who've been there awhile and know the ins and outs; I didn't get sold on stuff with promises that I know are not true - they were fairly honest about the pros/cons of the makeup with my own personal tastes. One reviewer noted that the prices are expensive and they are - especially more so in canada - but it is what it is and if you want a consistent palette of colours that will be there next month, then you get what you pay for. It's that simple. Another reviewer noted the "drag queen" staff makeup - I think that's hysterical. Clearly, MAC colours appeal to a wide range of ages and not all will wear the neon green and not all will wear the charcoal brown - but there's no drug store that has this range and depth of colours. Period. I enjoy the guys who's makeup looks better than mine even when it's been done by a pro :) More power to them. Anyhow, if you're looking for knowledge and selection this is it.
