MAC Studio Fix 36HR Smooth Angles Concealer
Lower concern for typical liquid cosmetic; no known PFAS signals, no brand disclosure.
MAC Studio Fix Concealer is a silicone-based liquid without waterproofing or stain resistance, the main PFAS vectors. MAC does not publicly disclose PFAS ingredients or testing.
We flunk more products than we pass. This one earned its grade. How we grade
Material
liquid foundation/concealer, silicone-based emulsion with pigments
Brand disclosure
Brand is silent on PFAS
Lab data
No public lab test
What’s concerning
Category baseline
PFAS exposure happens more often with clothing products.
No PFAS disclosure
The company has not publicly discussed PFAS in this product.
1,4-dioxane (synthetic fragrance contaminant)
MAC products typically contain fragrance; 1,4-dioxane can occur as a trace contaminant in ethoxylated ingredients used in emulsifiers. No specific testing of this product is publicly available, but the risk is consistent with mainstream liquid cosmetics and generally considered low at consumer exposure levels.
Fragrance allergens and sensitizers
MAC Studio Fix contains fragrance ingredients; individuals with fragrance sensitivity, rosacea, or contact dermatitis may react. Fragrance is not quantified on the label, making it difficult for sensitive consumers to assess risk before patch testing.
What’s reassuring
Safe base material
Made from ceramic, mineral, or natural fiber with no PFAS risk.
Heavy metals
Iron oxides and titanium dioxide are approved colorants with established safety data; no lead, cadmium, or arsenic contamination has been reported in MAC concealers. Mica is inert and non-toxic at cosmetic application levels.
Source: FDA ↗Formaldehyde / VOCs
Liquid silicone concealers do not typically require formaldehyde-releasing preservatives; MAC uses modern preservative systems. No product recall or safety alert exists for formaldehyde in this line.
Source: ATSDR ↗Talc contamination
This is a liquid formula and does not contain talc, eliminating the asbestos and ovarian cancer concern associated with powder concealers.
The full breakdown
What it's made of and why it matters
MAC Studio Fix 36HR is a silicone-based liquid concealer, meaning it uses cyclopentasiloxane or dimethicone as its primary vehicle rather than water or oil. Silicones are chemically inert once set and do not leach into skin during normal use. The product contains iron oxides, titanium dioxide, and mica for pigmentation and coverage, all regulated cosmetic colorants. Because it is a leave-on facial product applied in small amounts, systemic absorption of any ingredient is minimal.
The brand's record and disclosure
MAC Cosmetics (Estée Lauder Companies) does not publicly disclose PFAS content or make industry-leading transparency claims around chemical safety. The brand meets U.S. FDA cosmetic regulations and EU restrictions but does not voluntarily submit to third-party certifications like Clean Beauty or EWG verification. No product-specific recalls or safety warnings have been issued for this concealer line as of available records. The brand's silence on PFAS is consistent with most mainstream cosmetic manufacturers, not a red flag specific to MAC.
How it compares in its category
Liquid silicone concealers are among the safest subcategories in concealer makeup because they avoid talc concerns and are less prone to mold or bacterial growth than water-based formulas. MAC Studio Fix sits in the mid-to-premium tier; similarly formulated products from brands like Bobbi Brown, Fenty, and Charlotte Tilbury share the same silicone base chemistry and hazard profile. Water-based or powder alternatives may carry different risks (preservative sensitivity, talc) but not necessarily lower overall hazard.
If you buy it
Apply with a clean applicator and wash hands after use to avoid cross-contamination to eyes. Store in a cool, dry place away from direct heat or sunlight, as silicone can separate over time if exposed to high temperatures. Replace every 12-18 months or if you notice separation, color change, or odor. Do not use if you develop redness, itching, or contact dermatitis; patch test on inner arm first if you have sensitive or reactive skin.
What we don’t know
- Basis
- Model estimate, 72% confidence, not a lab result
- Lab test
- None on record for this exact product
- Brand statement
- MAC has made none
Formulations change between production runs, so check the current label. How we grade.
More concealer grades
How we score: every product runs through the same public 0–100 rubric based on materials, coatings, brand disclosure, lab findings, and recalls. See the full methodology → Spotted a mistake? Report an error.