Tarte Shape Tape Concealer is one of the most coveted beauty products on the market, making it a common target for counterfeiters. Buying a fake Shape Tape can lead to disappointing results, skin irritation, or worse. To protect your skin and ensure you’re getting the authentic product, it’s essential to know how to distinguish the real Tarte Shape Tape from a fake. This guide will walk you through key tips and telltale signs to help you spot counterfeit products.
1. Purchase Only from Authorized Retailers
The safest way to guarantee authenticity is to buy Tarte Shape Tape from authorized retailers such as Tarte’s official website, Sephora, Ulta, or reputable department stores. Avoid third-party sellers on unfamiliar websites or auction platforms where counterfeit products are often sold.
2. Inspect the Packaging Carefully
- Box Quality: The genuine Shape Tape box has sturdy, high-quality cardboard with clear printing. Counterfeit boxes may have blurry text, uneven fonts, or flimsy material.
- Logo and Spelling: Look closely at the logo and spelling of “Shape Tape.” Fake products often have slight misspellings, spacing errors, or incorrect fonts.
- Batch Code: Authentic products include a batch code printed on the packaging, which fakes often omit or print poorly.
3. Examine the Concealer Tube
- Material and Weight: The original Shape Tape tube is made of a durable, frosted plastic with a sturdy black cap. Fakes may feel lighter or cheaply made.
- Text and Labels: Authentic tubes have precise, sharp text and clear labeling. Smudged or faded print is a red flag.
- Applicator: The real Shape Tape features a thick, flat doe-foot applicator designed for easy, even application. Counterfeits might have thinner, less effective applicators.
4. Check the Formula and Scent
- Texture: Genuine Shape Tape has a creamy, thick consistency that blends smoothly. Fake products might be watery, clumpy, or dry.
- Scent: Authentic Shape Tape is fragrance-free or has a very mild scent. If the product smells strongly of chemicals or perfume, it’s likely counterfeit.
5. Observe the Shade Range and Color
- Shade Matching: Fake concealers often have shades that look off or do not match Tarte’s official shade range. If the color seems too bright, dull, or inconsistent with the advertised shade, be cautious.
- Color Payoff: The real concealer offers full, even coverage. Patchy or uneven pigmentation can indicate a fake.
6. Price Too Good to Be True?
If you find Tarte Shape Tape at a price significantly lower than retail (e.g., deep discounts or bundled deals from unknown sellers), it’s probably fake. Authentic Shape Tape usually sells within a consistent price range.
7. Packaging Seals and Expiry Dates
Original products have clear seals to protect against tampering. Also, check for printed expiry dates on the packaging. Lack of expiry information can be a sign of counterfeit goods.
Final Tips to Avoid Fake Tarte Shape Tape
- Stick to well-known, authorized sellers.
- Compare suspicious products with images from Tarte’s official website.
- Trust your instincts—if something looks or feels off, don’t risk using it on your skin.
- When in doubt, contact Tarte customer service to verify a product’s authenticity.
By staying vigilant and informed, you can confidently spot real Tarte Shape Tape and enjoy the flawless coverage and quality the brand promises—without risking your skin or your money.