Tarte BB Tinted Treatment Primer Review/Video Tutorial

     The arrival of BB creams (also known as Beauty Balms) in the U.S. made waves this summer, particularly through drugstore brands such as Loreal, Maybelline, and Garnier.  As the hunt for the ideal BB cream went underway, higher end companies started formulating their own versions.  I thought I had given up on BB creams altogether until QVC launched Tarte's BB Tinted Treatment Primer in August 2012. The on-air demonstrations looked promising, and when I tried the product for the first time, I was not disappointed.  

     It's important to note that Tarte does NOT use fragrances or mineral oil in this product.  Some companies use these as selling points, though even subtle fragrances and some mineral agents  can actually cause irritation to the skin and be counterproductive to the original purpose of the product.  

Check out the tutorial below on how to use this product:

     When selecting a shade ideal for your skin color, try to find one that will match under your wrist. As you can see from the photos below, the product initially appears darker, but is nearly undetectable once blended in.  Stores like Sephora and Ulta often have a sample on display for most of their higher end products so that you may test it out first.  This allows you to try several different shades if you would like before committing to purchasing.  This also gives you an initial feel for the product, how it applies to the skin, feels on you, and tests its lasting power if you're not planning on purchasing a particular product right away.

                    

                      

Prior to blending.

Once blended in (flash was used to enhance any trace of product).

    Pros: Silky smooth formula, buildable product, covers redness, produces an overall healthy, smooth finish, long staying power

    Cons: tends to enhance highly dry areas, may cause minor irritation to sensitive skin


     Tarte BB Tinted Treatment Primer can currently be found at Ulta, Sephora, and Tarte's website for $34 in Fair, Light, Medium, and Tan.  (The original formula started at Light). Their relaunch has added SPF 30, which is ideal for protecting skin from every day sun damage. While this is more expensive than some of the earlier American BB Creams we've seen by other companies in the summer, I personally feel that it is worth the price.  I know that I've spent more in the past on failed products over time that have added up to more than the price of Tarte's BB cream, only leaving my skin itchy, irritated, cakey, or yellow.