Tarte offers two highly popular concealers that cater to different skin needs and preferences: Shape Tape and Ultra Creamy. Both have earned their place in makeup lovers’ routines, but choosing between them depends on your desired coverage, finish, skin type, and application style. This article breaks down the differences between Tarte Shape Tape and Tarte Ultra Creamy to help you decide which formula suits you best.
1. Coverage and Finish
Tarte Shape Tape:
Shape Tape is known for its full coverage and matte finish. It effectively conceals dark circles, blemishes, and discoloration, creating an airbrushed, flawless look. Its thick consistency offers buildable coverage but requires careful blending to avoid looking cakey.
Tarte Ultra Creamy:
Ultra Creamy provides medium to full coverage with a dewy, radiant finish. It’s lighter and more hydrating than Shape Tape, making it ideal for those who prefer a natural, glowing complexion while still covering imperfections.
2. Formula and Texture
Shape Tape:
The formula is thicker and more matte, infused with shea butter and mango seed butter to hydrate the skin but best suited for normal to oily or combination skin types.
Ultra Creamy:
As the name suggests, Ultra Creamy has a smooth, buttery texture that glides on effortlessly. It contains hydrating ingredients like Amazonian clay and oils, perfect for dry or sensitive skin.
3. Best Skin Types
- Shape Tape: Ideal for oily, combination, or normal skin types that require longer wear and shine control.
- Ultra Creamy: Best suited for dry or mature skin thanks to its moisturizing properties and radiant finish.
4. Longevity and Wear
Shape Tape:
Offers excellent longevity, lasting up to 12 hours without significant creasing or fading. Its matte finish helps control oil and shine throughout the day.
Ultra Creamy:
While still long-lasting, Ultra Creamy’s dewy finish may require touch-ups for those with oily skin. It wears comfortably without drying or settling into fine lines.
5. Application Tips
- Shape Tape: Use sparingly and blend quickly with a damp sponge to avoid cakiness.
- Ultra Creamy: Apply with fingertips or a brush for a smooth, natural finish; less blending pressure is needed.
6. Shade Range and Inclusivity
Both concealers offer extensive shade ranges with multiple undertones, catering well to diverse skin tones. Ultra Creamy tends to have slightly more hydrating undertones, while Shape Tape’s shades focus on matte coverage.
7. Price Point
Both products are priced similarly in the mid-range category, generally around $30-$35, making them accessible luxury options for quality concealers.
Final Verdict: Which Tarte Concealer Should You Choose?
- Choose Tarte Shape Tape if you want full matte coverage with long wear, especially if you have oily or combination skin and need serious concealment.
- Opt for Tarte Ultra Creamy if you prefer a hydrating, radiant finish with medium to full coverage, especially suited for dry or sensitive skin types.
Both concealers are excellent, but your choice ultimately depends on your skin type and the finish you desire. Whichever you pick, Tarte’s formulas offer reliable performance and the quality you expect from a beloved beauty brand.