"Should I buy Kryolan TV Paint Stick or Mehron CreamBlend Stick?" This is probably one of the questions I'm asked most often in the shop.
The short answer is that they're both fantastic products. Neither is objectively better than the other – they're simply different formulas designed to do the same job.
If you've never used a theatrical cream foundation before though, I do usually have a recommendation...
Both Kryolan TV Paint Stick and Mehron CreamBlend Stick are professional cream foundations designed for theatre, drag, dance, panto cosplay, film and other performance makeup.
They're designed to provide much heavier coverage than an everyday foundation and are intended to be set well with powder so they'll stand up to long performances, bright lights and plenty of movement.
These aren't generally worn as everyday foundations, although if that's your thing, go for it! They're simply designed with performance in mind rather than a natural "no makeup" finish.
I often describe these as "new skin in a stick." That's obviously not the official description, but it's the easiest way to explain what they do. They don't just even out your complexion like a typical foundation - they give you an entirely new canvas to work from. Whether you're creating a stage character, doing drag makeup, transforming yourself for cosplay or simply wanting very full coverage, these products let you build a whole new face.
If you've never used either product before, I'd usually recommend starting with Mehron CreamBlend Stick.
The formula is creamier, blends more easily and is generally more forgiving while you're learning.
Blending is one of the biggest skills to develop when working with cream makeup. A product that's a little easier to move around gives you more time to work and makes it easier to correct mistakes while you're building your confidence.
Once you've become comfortable working with cream foundations, you'll have a much better idea of whether you want to stick with Mehron or move over to Kryolan.
That doesn't mean Kryolan is only for professionals. Plenty of beginners start there too. I just think Mehron is the easier product to learn with.
Kryolan has been a theatre standard for many years.
Walk backstage at many amateur dramatic productions, dance shows or pantomimes around Ireland and there's a good chance you'll find TV Paint Sticks on the makeup table—often shades 5W or 6W.
For performers, there's something reassuring about using the same products as everyone else, especially if you're part of a chorus where consistency matters.
That doesn't mean it's the only professional option. Plenty of experienced performers, including many drag artists, use Mehron as their go-to product.
For me, the biggest practical difference is the formula.
Kryolan feels drier on the skin and takes a little more work to blend. Mehron is creamier and generally easier to blend.
Neither approach is right or wrong.
Some performers actually prefer Kryolan's firmer consistency, particularly once they're experienced and working under hot stage lights.
Others prefer the extra flexibility that Mehron gives them while they're applying their makeup.
A lot comes down to your own skin type and what simply feels comfortable to you.
This is where Kryolan really stands out.
The TV Paint Stick range is available in over 250 shades worldwide, including skin tones, correctors and theatrical colours.
Mehron's range is much smaller. It covers a good range from very light to very deep shades, but there are fewer undertones and less variation overall.
For most people, that won't be a problem.
If you're looking for a very specific undertone or an unusual theatrical colour, Kryolan is much more likely to have exactly what you're need.
Both products are designed to give full, theatrical coverage.
If your goal is lightweight everyday makeup, I'd honestly recommend buying a different type of foundation altogether.
Yes, you can sheer either product out with a mixing medium or blending medium, but that's really more useful when you're building a professional kit and want one product to do several jobs.
Most people buying these products want the coverage they're famous for.
Whichever product you choose, setting it properly is just as important as choosing the foundation itself.
Both products should be set generously with powder.
If you need even more durability, you can also use a professional setting spray once your makeup is finished.
Both of these are professional performance products with fairly complex ingredient lists.
If you already know your skin is particularly sensitive, it's always worth checking the ingredient list before buying any theatrical makeup.
Some people also like using a suitable barrier cream or primer underneath to make the makeup feel more comfortable on their skin.
If you're completely new to theatrical cream foundations, I'd usually point you towards Mehron CreamBlend Stick.
If you're already comfortable with heavier cream makeup, work in theatre or dance, or simply prefer a firmer formula, Kryolan TV Paint Stick is an excellent choice.
The good news is there isn't a wrong answer.
They're both professional products, they're both capable of producing incredible results, and plenty of performers keep both in their kit.
At the end of the day, the best foundation is the one that works best for your skin, your technique and the kind of performance you're doing.
