Benefit Cosmetics Launches Cream Version of Hoola Bronzer

Introduction to Hoola Wave

All cream bronzers generally contain emollients and waxes that allow the product to spread across the skin and leave your complexion feeling soft. Hoola Wave is no different, says cosmetic chemist Valerie George. “It contains emollients like caprylic/capric triglyceride (derived from coconut oil and glycerin), avocado seed and castor seed oils, and synthetic wax and candelilla wax,” she explains. One emollient in particular—isoamyl laureate—is an ingredient with a silicone-like feel that absorbs quickly and could contribute to that dry down to a powdery feel, adds cosmetic chemist Kelly Dobos.

The Formula

Dobos notes that the three powder-based ingredients in the formula could be the reason Hoola Wave captures the finish of the original so well. “Silica, often in the form of microspheres, have optical blurring effects and give [the cream] a really silky feeling on the skin, while mica powders help provide a translucent finish,” she explains. What really caught Dobos’ eye, however, is an ingredient called dicalcium phosphate. “This is another powder ingredient that absorbs sebum and adds some opacity; I don’t know that I’ve seen it used in many makeup products.” Finally, there’s trimethylpentanediol/adipic acid/glycerin crosspolymer, which Dobos explains is a flexible film former that improves wear resistance and is probably partly responsible for the formula’s waterproof, sweatproof, smudge-proof, and transfer-resistant claims.

The Shades

For Oquendo, what makes the original formula so beloved is not just the fact that it’s the “OG contour,” but because of the color range. “None of the powder shades look yellow, orange, or muddy on the skin,” he explains, adding that Hoola Lite has long been his go-to for his fairest clients. The original Hoola came in four shades: Lite, Original, Toasted, and Caramel. The new Bronzing Balm comes in five shades: Light, Original, Medium, Medium-Deep, and Deep. “We expanded the Hoola Powder shade range to match the Hoola Wave range, and we’ve made the shade names easier to choose from,” says Helfrich. Caramel and Toasted seem to be Medium and Medium-Deep, while the Deep shade appears to be a new addition.

Testing the Product

All five shades feel authentic to the original powder formula, says Oquendo. “They look like the same colors, and they’re pretty inclusive,” he adds. “If you are very fair, there is a color for you, and if you have a deeper skin tone, there’s a shade for you, too. I’m not sure the darkest shade will suit very deep complexions, however.”
Lazy beauty lover that I am, I typically skip bronzer or contour unless I’ve got a big event. That being said, in the summer, sometimes I skip blush altogether and add color to my complexion with bronzer, which will always be a cream. During testing, I used Benefit Hoola Wave both as a traditional bronzer and as more of a strategic contour. As a bronzer, it performs beautifully. Using the Hoola WaveMaker brush and shade Medium, I applied it along my cheekbones, hairline, and jawline, as well as across the bridge of my nose and chin. Sheer and buildable, it was incredible to watch as, layer by layer, my skin gradually warmed and glowed until it looked like my tan came from a week in Costa Rica versus a compact in my vanity.

The WaveMaker Brush

A quick note about the brush Benefit created along with the new formula. With its extremely densely packed bristles, the WaveMaker brush was made to seamlessly blend Hoola Waves’ unique, balmy texture. It sheers out the pigment and buffs as it applies, leaving no streak or stripe behind, which is great when using this as an all-over bronzer. That being said, it really sheers out the pigment, something Oquendo also noticed. “It’s not a brush I would apply with,” he explains. If you want more intense pigment payoff or you’re using it to contour, Oquendo recommends first applying the balm to you skin with either your fingertips or a classic flat foundation brush, and then using the WaveMaker brush (or a similar, very densely packed synthetic brush) to soften the edges. “This formula is so buttery that it spreads on easily with your finger, but then also blends beautifully for a diffused look,” he adds.

Conclusion

In conclusion, Benefit Hoola Wave is a great addition to the Hoola family, offering a creamy, buildable texture that is easy to apply and blend. The formula is packed with emollients and powders that work together to create a natural-looking, sun-kissed glow. With five shades to choose from, there’s a color for every skin tone, making it a great option for anyone looking to add a little warmth to their complexion.

FAQs

Q: What is Hoola Wave?
A: Hoola Wave is a new cream bronzer from Benefit that offers a buildable, natural-looking glow.
Q: What are the ingredients in Hoola Wave?
A: Hoola Wave contains emollients like caprylic/capric triglyceride, avocado seed and castor seed oils, and synthetic wax and candelilla wax, as well as powder ingredients like silica, mica, and dicalcium phosphate.
Q: How many shades does Hoola Wave come in?
A: Hoola Wave comes in five shades: Light, Original, Medium, Medium-Deep, and Deep.
Q: Can I use Hoola Wave as a contour?
A: Yes, Hoola Wave can be used as a contour, but it’s recommended to apply it with your fingertips or a flat foundation brush and then blend with the WaveMaker brush for a more defined look.
Q: Is Hoola Wave waterproof and sweatproof?
A: Yes, Hoola Wave is waterproof, sweatproof, smudge-proof, and transfer-resistant, making it a great option for everyday wear.