PIMBY Foundation Review 2026: Is It Worth the Hype?

Are you thinking about trying the PIMBY foundation but want an honest take before you spend your money? You are not alone. PIMBY (Playing In Makeup By Yolondo) has become one of the most talked about indie beauty brands on social media.

The brand’s Evanesce Soft Matte Liquid Foundation and cream concealers went viral on TikTok and Instagram. Thousands of beauty lovers watched the product cover tattoos, scars, and hyperpigmentation with ease.

But does it actually live up to the hype? In this detailed PIMBY Foundation review for 2026, we break down every aspect of the product. We cover the formula, the shade range, the price, the performance, and what real customers say.

Key Takeaways

• PIMBY stands for Playing In Makeup By Yolondo, a Black-owned, cruelty-free, and vegan cosmetics brand founded by Jamaican-born makeup artist Yolondo Salmon-Thomas. The brand is based in Buford, Georgia, and now has a flagship store inside the Mall of Georgia.
• The Evanesce Soft Matte Liquid Foundation offers medium to full coverage and works on all skin types including normal, dry, oily, and combination. It retails at $38 USD for a full-size bottle and $3.99 for a sample size.
• The shade range is wide and growing. The cream concealer now has 59 shades, and the liquid foundation has a solid selection. This makes it easier to find a match across different skin tones.
• Real user reviews are mixed. Many people love the coverage and the finish. However, some customers report issues with shipping times and customer service. The tattoo-covering claims may also be a bit exaggerated for some skin types.
• All PIMBY products are paraben-free, cruelty-free, and vegan. The formula uses ingredients like Vegetable Lanolin, shea butter, and other skin-nourishing components.
• The brand also sells an 8-shade cream concealer palette, which is a popular choice for people who want to mix and match shades for contouring and spot concealing.

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What Is PIMBY Foundation?

PIMBY Foundation refers to the Evanesce Soft Matte Liquid Foundation made by Playing In Makeup By Yolondo. This product is a liquid foundation that delivers medium to full coverage with a soft matte finish. The brand created it for all skin types, including oily, dry, normal, and combination skin.

The foundation sits on the skin without feeling heavy. It blends into the skin and creates a smooth, even base. Many users describe the texture as silky and lightweight, which is a big deal for a full-coverage product. The formula contains Cyclopentasiloxane, Isododecane, and Aqua as key base ingredients.

PIMBY also markets this foundation as a solution for covering hyperpigmentation, dark spots, blemishes, and even tattoos. The brand went viral on TikTok in 2023 and 2024 because of dramatic before-and-after tattoo coverage videos. Those videos earned millions of views and brought a lot of attention to this indie brand.

Who Is Behind PIMBY?

The brand was founded by Yolondo Salmon-Thomas, a Jamaican-born makeup artist and beauty entrepreneur. She started PIMBY as a small, independent cosmetics line focused on highly pigmented eyeshadow palettes. Over time, the brand expanded into concealers, foundations, skincare, and tools.

Yolondo is one of the few independent Black-owned beauty brand owners who runs a flagship retail store stocked only with her own products. In September 2025, she opened her first major cosmetics store inside the Mall of Georgia in Buford. This was a huge milestone for the brand.

Her story is one of persistence. She built the brand from the ground up without big-name retailer support. Social media played a massive role in growing her audience. Today, the PIMBY brand has over 100 products in its lineup, from eyeshadows to skincare and face makeup.

PIMBY Evanesce Soft Matte Liquid Foundation: Product Details

The Evanesce Soft Matte Liquid Foundation is the brand’s flagship face product. Here is a quick look at the main details.

The full-size bottle retails for $38 USD. A sample size of 1.3g is available for $3.99. This is a smart move by PIMBY because it lets first-time buyers test the formula without spending a lot.

The foundation has a soft matte finish that does not look flat or cakey. It is buildable, so you can go from medium to full coverage with extra layers. It claims to be long-wearing and suitable for all-day use.

The ingredient list includes skin-friendly elements. Vegetable Lanolin made from shea butter helps moisturize the skin. This keeps the formula from drying out your face, which is a common complaint with matte foundations. The product is paraben-free, cruelty-free, and vegan, which checks a lot of boxes for conscious beauty buyers.

Top 3 Alternatives for PIMBY Foundation

Last update on 2026-07-03 / Affiliate links / Images from Amazon Product Advertising API Some of the links on this website are affiliate links, which means that at no additional cost to you, I earn a commission if you click through and make a purchase. I only recommend products and services that I believe will add value to my readers. Thank you for your support!

Last update on 2026-07-03 / Affiliate links / Images from Amazon Product Advertising API Some of the links on this website are affiliate links, which means that at no additional cost to you, I earn a commission if you click through and make a purchase. I only recommend products and services that I believe will add value to my readers. Thank you for your support!

Last update on 2026-07-03 / Affiliate links / Images from Amazon Product Advertising API Some of the links on this website are affiliate links, which means that at no additional cost to you, I earn a commission if you click through and make a purchase. I only recommend products and services that I believe will add value to my readers. Thank you for your support!

How Does PIMBY Foundation Perform on Different Skin Types?

One of the biggest selling points of this foundation is its claim to work on all skin types. People with oily skin report that the matte finish helps control shine for several hours. The formula does not slide around or break down quickly on oily T-zones.

For dry skin, the results are more mixed. The Vegetable Lanolin and shea butter in the formula add moisture. But some users with very dry skin say it can cling to dry patches if you skip moisturizer. A good hydrating primer underneath makes a big difference.

People with combination skin seem to enjoy the product the most. The foundation stays put in oily areas and does not dry out the cheeks. It provides a balanced look without excessive powdering. If you have sensitive skin, the paraben-free and vegan formula is a plus. However, always patch test any new product before applying it to your full face.

Coverage and Finish: What to Expect

The Evanesce Soft Matte Liquid Foundation delivers medium to full coverage. One layer provides a solid medium coverage that evens out skin tone. Two layers build up to full coverage that hides dark spots, redness, and blemishes.

The finish is a soft matte that looks like real skin. It does not create that “mask-like” appearance that many full-coverage foundations produce. Light reflects off the skin in a natural way, which gives a healthy look.

However, it is important to keep expectations realistic. This foundation will not make tattoos vanish with a single swipe the way some social media videos suggest. One Reddit reviewer who tried it for tattoo coverage on fair skin said it covered more than other brands but still required multiple layers and setting. The product transferred to clothing after about two hours even with setting powder.

The Shade Range: How Inclusive Is It?

PIMBY has made shade inclusivity a priority. The Evanesce Soft Matte Cream Concealer now offers 59 shades, which is impressive for an indie brand. The liquid foundation also has a growing shade selection.

The brand uses a numbering system for shades. For example, shade P127 is one of the options in the liquid foundation range. Shades range from very fair to very deep. PIMBY also partnered with Match My Makeup, a tool that helps customers find the right shade based on their skin tone.

This wide range is one of the brand’s strongest features. Many indie brands struggle to offer enough shades for deeper skin tones. PIMBY does not have that problem. If you have a deeper complexion, you are likely to find a shade that works for you. The brand keeps adding new shades, so the range continues to expand.

PIMBY Concealer vs. PIMBY Foundation: What Is the Difference?

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Many people use PIMBY’s Evanesce Soft Matte Cream Concealer as a foundation. This is because the concealer went viral first and delivered full coverage that looked like foundation. The concealer comes in a compact pan. You need to warm it up with a blow dryer or body heat before application.

The liquid foundation is a different product. It comes in a bottle with a pump and applies like a standard liquid foundation. You do not need to heat it up. The liquid formula spreads more easily across the face and blends faster.

The cream concealer is thicker and gives heavier coverage in a smaller area. It is better for spot concealing, tattoo coverage, and under-eye brightening. The liquid foundation is better for a full-face application that feels lighter. Both products work well together. You can use the liquid foundation as your base and the cream concealer for extra coverage where you need it.

What Do Real Customers Say About PIMBY Foundation?

Customer reviews tell a mixed but mostly positive story. On social media, thousands of people praise the coverage. TikTok and Instagram are full of impressive before-and-after videos. Users with hyperpigmentation say the foundation covers dark spots without looking heavy.

On Reddit, reviews are more balanced. One user gave the product 3 out of 5 stars for tattoo coverage on fair skin. They said the foundation covered more than other brands they tried but did not erase the tattoo as shown in promo videos. The product transferred to clothing and lasted about 5 hours on the body.

Customer service has received some criticism. The same Reddit reviewer described slow shipping and copy-paste email responses. The package took 7 to 8 days to arrive after purchase, and the tracking information was delayed. However, many other customers have had smooth buying experiences. The brand operates as a small business, so service quality can vary.

Shipping, Pricing, and Where to Buy

The Evanesce Soft Matte Liquid Foundation costs $38 USD for a full-size bottle. A sample size is $3.99. The cream concealer is priced at $32 USD per single shade and the 8-shade palette is also available.

You can buy PIMBY products through the official website at playinginmakeupbyyolondo.com. The brand ships across the United States and internationally. International shipping times can take 7 to 10 days or longer depending on your location.

PIMBY products are also available on Amazon through the brand’s listings. However, be careful with third-party sellers on Amazon. Some listings may not be authentic PIMBY products. Always check the seller name and reviews before ordering. The safest option is buying directly from the official PIMBY website or visiting the Mall of Georgia flagship store in Buford, GA.

The Ingredients: Are They Safe for Your Skin?

The Evanesce Soft Matte Liquid Foundation uses a blend of silicones, emollients, and pigments. Key ingredients include Aqua, Cyclopentasiloxane, and Isododecane. These create the smooth, silky texture that users love.

Vegetable Lanolin is a standout ingredient. It is made from shea butter and gives the foundation its moisturizing properties. This ingredient helps prevent the formula from drying out your skin during long wear.

The formula is paraben-free, which is important for people who want to avoid synthetic preservatives. It is also cruelty-free and vegan, so no animal testing or animal-derived ingredients are used. The product claims to be non-acnegenic, meaning it should not clog your pores. However, individual skin reactions always vary. If you have very sensitive or acne-prone skin, patch testing is a good idea before full-face application.

How to Apply PIMBY Foundation for Best Results

Getting the best results from the Evanesce Soft Matte Liquid Foundation starts with skin prep. Wash your face and apply your regular moisturizer. Wait a few minutes for it to absorb.

Next, apply a hydrating primer. This step is especially important for dry skin types. A primer creates a smooth base and helps the foundation last longer. Shake the bottle well before use. Pump a small amount onto the back of your hand.

Use a dense foundation brush or a damp beauty sponge to apply the product. Start from the center of your face and blend outward. Build coverage in thin layers rather than applying one thick layer. This prevents a cakey finish and gives a more natural look.

Set the foundation with a translucent setting powder. Focus on the T-zone and under-eye area. Finish with a setting spray for extra longevity. If you are covering blemishes or dark spots, layer the cream concealer on top of the foundation for added coverage.

Is PIMBY Foundation Worth the Price?

At $38 USD, the PIMBY Evanesce Soft Matte Liquid Foundation sits in the mid-range price category. It is cheaper than high-end foundations from Lancôme or Dior but more expensive than drugstore options like Revlon or Maybelline.

The value depends on your needs. If you want a highly pigmented, full-coverage foundation from a Black-owned, cruelty-free brand, this is a strong choice. The formula delivers on its coverage claims for the face. The shade range is also wider than many competitors.

However, if you are buying it mainly for tattoo coverage, manage your expectations. The product works better on the face than on the body for all-day wear. For occasional tattoo coverage at events, it can do the job. But it may not hold up through a full day of movement and friction. The $3.99 sample size is a smart way to test before committing to the full bottle.

Pros and Cons of PIMBY Foundation

The pros of this foundation are clear. It offers excellent coverage for the face. The soft matte finish looks natural and not heavy. The shade range is wide and continues to grow. The formula is paraben-free, vegan, and cruelty-free. Supporting a Black-owned indie brand is an added bonus.

The cons are worth noting too. The foundation can transfer to clothing, especially on the body. Customer service has been inconsistent based on some user reports. The price is higher than drugstore options but lower than luxury brands. Availability is limited compared to mainstream brands. You may need a primer for the best results on dry skin.

Overall, the pros outweigh the cons for most face makeup users. The formula is well-made, the shades are inclusive, and the brand has a genuine story behind it. Just keep your expectations in check about tattoo coverage claims.

Final Verdict on PIMBY Foundation in 2026

The PIMBY Evanesce Soft Matte Liquid Foundation is a solid product from a growing indie brand. It delivers on its promise of medium to full coverage with a smooth, skin-like matte finish. The formula works well on multiple skin types and offers a wide shade range.

Yolondo Salmon-Thomas built this brand from scratch, and the growth speaks for itself. The flagship store at the Mall of Georgia, viral social media presence, and expanding product line show that PIMBY is here to stay. If you value cruelty-free, vegan, and inclusive beauty, this foundation deserves a try.

We recommend starting with the $3.99 sample size to test the shade and formula on your skin. If you love it, upgrade to the full-size bottle. This is a foundation that rewards good skin prep and proper application technique.

Frequently Asked Questions

Is PIMBY Foundation good for oily skin?

Yes, the soft matte finish helps control oil and shine. The formula does not feel greasy on oily skin. Many users with oily T-zones report good results with this foundation.

Can PIMBY Foundation cover tattoos?

The foundation can cover tattoos to a degree, but results vary by skin tone and tattoo color. For face use, the coverage is excellent. For body tattoos, you may need multiple layers plus setting powder and spray. It does not erase tattoos as dramatically as some social media videos suggest.

Is PIMBY a cruelty-free brand?

Yes. All PIMBY products are cruelty-free and vegan. The brand does not test on animals, and the formulas contain no animal-derived ingredients.

Where can I buy PIMBY Foundation?

You can buy it from the official PIMBY website at playinginmakeupbyyolondo.com. Products are also listed on Amazon. The brand has a flagship store at the Mall of Georgia in Buford, GA.

How many shades does PIMBY Foundation have?

The cream concealer has 59 shades. The liquid foundation has a growing shade selection that covers fair to deep skin tones. PIMBY continues to add new shades regularly.

Does PIMBY Foundation transfer?

Some users report transfer, especially on the body. Using a setting powder and setting spray helps reduce transfer. On the face, the foundation stays put much longer with proper application and setting.

Is PIMBY Foundation worth $38?

For a cruelty-free, vegan, full-coverage foundation from an indie brand, $38 is a fair price. The sample size at $3.99 lets you try before committing. The quality of the formula and shade range make it competitive with mid-range brands.