Collistar, a Milanese brand
The thinking behind the brand is summed up in its tagline, "Liberating Beauty": beauty that is simple and accessible, built on a few steps and the right products rather than complicated routines. Since 2019, the house states, its treatments have been formulated according to Clean Research, an approach meant to avoid putting unnecessary ingredients on the skin. Ingredients of Italian origin come up often in the products we carry, such as the calendula in Mediterranea foundation and the purple carrot in the lip treatment.
Mediterranea, the compact sun foundation
The formula
Collistar presents Mediterranea as a sun foundation that brings makeup and skincare together. The formula is 93% treatment, with 77% ingredients of natural origin, and its SPF 15 protection comes from the Smart Sun Protection system. The texture is soft, silky and smooth, easy to apply and blend, with a matte finish that, according to the brand, controls shine, evens out the complexion and leaves a light bronzed glow. It also contains extract of Italian calendula, grown with sustainable methods and chosen for its soothing properties.
The shades and the compact
The shades are named after Italian islands, Elba, Ischia, Capri and Pantelleria, and in that order they grow gradually deeper, like a journey from north to south. The Mediterranea Trousse Vuota is the foundation's compact case, with the pressed foundation pan sold separately. When the pan runs out, you only buy the refill, and the case is recyclable.
The plumping lip treatment
The Trattamento Labbra Anti-Rughe Rimpolpante is formulated for a targeted regenerating action on the lips and lip contour, which the house says is inspired by the science of bioregeneration. According to Collistar, meristem cells from Italian purple carrot stimulate peripheral microcirculation and bring color and vibrancy back to the lips. The formula also includes ultra-low molecular weight hyaluronic acid and two biomimetic peptides, and the brand positions it to hydrate, smooth and relax the lips. The actives are encapsulated with Targeted Active Technology, which delivers them where they're needed.
Frequently asked questions
Is Collistar an Italian brand?
Yes, Collistar was founded in Milan in 1983 and is now part of Bolton Group, an Italian group headquartered in Milan. The house states that its production is entirely Italian, and it is present in more than 45 countries with face, body, sun care, hair and makeup products.
Is Collistar Mediterranea foundation good for sensitive skin?
Yes, the brand recommends it for all skin types, including the most sensitive. It is dermatologically and ophthalmologically tested, non-comedogenic and nickel tested. The formula is free of cyclic silicones, alcohol, fragrance and mineral oils, is suitable for vegans and contains Italian calendula extract.
How does the Mediterranea foundation refill work?
Mediterranea consists of a compact case, sold empty, and a refill holding the foundation pan that you insert. When the product runs out, you simply replace the refill and keep the case, which Collistar makes with 80% recycled plastic.
Can you wear Mediterranea outside of vacation?
Yes, the brand suggests it year-round, in the city as well as on vacation. The UVA, UVB and IR filters of the Smart Sun Protection system provide SPF 15 protection, and the house pairs this with an anti-digital-aging action. The matte texture leaves a light, natural bronzed glow on the skin.
What's in the Collistar plumping lip treatment?
It contains meristem cells from Italian purple carrot, ultra-low molecular weight hyaluronic acid and two biomimetic peptides. The brand formulates it for the lips and lip contour to hydrate, smooth and relax, while Targeted Active Technology delivers the actives where they're needed.
