As a makeup artist with over a decade of experience in the beauty industry, I’ve tested countless eyeshadow formulations across price points. Today, I’m diving deep into Maybelline’s popular ColorTattoo Metal 24HR Cream Gel Eyeshadow in the shade “Too Cool” – a product that has generated considerable buzz in the drugstore makeup category.
First Impressions & Packaging
The Maybelline ColorTattoo comes in a small glass pot (0.14 ounces), which immediately gives it a more premium feel compared to plastic packaging. The screw-top lid is secure, preventing the cream from drying out prematurely – a common issue with cream products. The compact size makes it travel-friendly, though the glass construction means you’ll want to handle it with care.
Color & Finish
“Too Cool” is primarily a frosty white shade with a metallic/pearlescent finish. While the marketing photos might suggest a silvery tone, most users confirm it’s decidedly a bright white with shimmer. The metallic finish provides a noticeable sheen without falling into the category of chunky glitter. This makes it versatile as both a standalone eyeshadow and as a highlighting product.
Texture & Application
The texture of this product generates the most divided opinions among users. The ColorTattoo has a cream-gel hybrid formulation that’s quite dense and firm in the pot – firmer than many expect from a “cream” eyeshadow. This consistency poses both advantages and challenges:
Consistency: The product is thicker and more solid than traditional cream shadows. Some users describe it as being “dry” or “hard” in the pot, requiring some pressure to pick up product. This appears to be intentional in the formulation rather than indicating dried-out product, though some users reported receiving pots that seemed excessively dry or cracked, suggesting potential quality control issues or age-related deterioration.
Application Methods:
- Fingers: Many users find fingertip application provides the best results, allowing the warmth of your skin to slightly soften the product for smoother application.
- Brushes: Those who prefer using brushes report needing to use dense, stiff brushes with multiple swipes to achieve desired opacity. Synthetic brushes typically perform better than natural bristles with this formulation.
- Building Coverage: The product can be applied sheerly for a subtle highlight or built up for more intense pigmentation. However, building requires patience as layering too quickly can result in patchiness.
Blendability: This is another area of mixed feedback. Once applied, the window for blending is relatively short before the product sets. While this contributes to its longevity, it means you need to work relatively quickly. Blending with other cream products works reasonably well, but integration with powder eyeshadows can be challenging unless applied on top while the cream is still slightly tacky.
Pigmentation & Opacity
“Too Cool” offers moderate to high pigmentation depending on application technique. On fair to light skin tones, it delivers a bright white highlight that can be built to near opacity. On medium to deep skin tones, it may require more product to achieve full impact but can still serve as an effective highlighting shade.
Some users note that achieving even application requires technique development – the first point of contact where the product or brush touches the skin often receives more product, requiring careful blending to distribute the color evenly.
Longevity & Wear Performance
The “24HR” claim in the product name sets high expectations, and this is where the ColorTattoo genuinely impresses most users:
Staying Power: On most skin types, including oily eyelids, this product demonstrates exceptional longevity. Users consistently report the color maintaining intensity and placement throughout a full day of wear (8+ hours), with minimal fading or creasing.
Waterproof Properties: The formula shows good resistance to humidity, sweat, and even some water exposure, making it suitable for active wear, summer conditions, and special occasions where durability is essential.
Creasing Resistance: Performance in this area varies somewhat based on skin type and application technique. Those with very oily eyelids may experience some creasing after extended wear, particularly if applied thickly. Using a primer underneath can enhance performance for those with very oily lids.
Setting Time: The product sets relatively quickly on the lid, which contributes to its longevity but requires efficient application and blending.
Versatility & Uses
The versatility of “Too Cool” is one of its standout features:
As a Standalone Eyeshadow: Applied all over the lid for a bright, eye-opening effect.
As an Inner Corner Highlight: The reflective quality makes it excellent for brightening the inner corners of eyes, creating a more awake appearance.
As a Brow Bone Highlight: Many users specifically mention using it as an arch enhancer under the brow.
As a Base/Primer: One of the most popular applications is using it as a base for other eyeshadows, particularly to intensify the color payoff of powder shadows applied on top.
As a Face Highlighter: Some creative users report successfully applying small amounts as a highlighter under the eyes or on high points of the face for a subtle glow.
For Theatrical/Performance Makeup: The long-wearing formula and intense white color make it popular for dance recitals, performances, and costume makeup where staying power is crucial.
Removal Process
The long-wearing formula necessitates proper makeup removal techniques:
Ease of Removal: Standard makeup wipes struggle with complete removal. Most users recommend:
- Dual-phase or oil-based makeup removers
- Micellar water (though may require several passes)
- Cleansing balms or oils followed by a regular cleanser
The product removes relatively easily with appropriate products but can leave residue if inadequate removal techniques are used.
Who This Product Works Best For
Based on user experiences, this product seems to perform best for:
- Those seeking truly long-wearing eye color
- People who prefer applying eyeshadow with fingers rather than brushes
- Makeup users comfortable with cream formulas
- Those looking for a versatile highlighting product
- Dancers, performers, or anyone needing makeup that withstands activity and lasts all day
- People seeking a white base to intensify other eyeshadow colors
Who Might Want to Skip
This might not be ideal for:
- Those with deep wrinkles or textured eyelids, as the metallic finish can emphasize texture
- People who prefer very quick, foolproof application
- Those seeking a purely matte white (this has definite shimmer/frost)
- Makeup beginners who might struggle with the learning curve of cream product blending
- Those with extremely oily lids who don’t want to use a primer underneath
Value Proposition
At a typical price point under $10, this product offers exceptional value considering its performance and longevity – both in terms of wear time and how long the pot lasts before being used up. Many users specifically mention that the ColorTattoo compares favorably to high-end cream shadows costing 3-4 times as much.
Common Issues & Troubleshooting
Product Drying Out: The most frequently mentioned issue is the product drying in the pot over time. To prevent this:
- Ensure the lid is tightly closed after each use
- Store it upside down to help maintain moisture
- Consider adding a tiny drop of mixing medium or eye drops if it becomes too dry (though this may affect longevity)
Application Challenges: For smoother application:
- Warm the product slightly by working it with your finger before applying
- Use a synthetic dense brush rather than fluffy brushes
- Apply in thin layers rather than attempting full opacity in one go
- Set with a matching powder eyeshadow for even more longevity
Creasing: To minimize creasing:
- Apply a thin layer rather than building up too thickly
- Use an eyeshadow primer underneath if you have very oily lids
- Set with a translucent powder if necessary
Comparison to Similar Products
Compared to other drugstore cream eyeshadows, the ColorTattoo generally offers superior longevity but may require more effort in application. Versus high-end alternatives like MAC Paint Pots, Bobbi Brown Long-Wear Cream Shadow, or Charlotte Tilbury Eyes to Mesmerize, the ColorTattoo typically offers comparable wear time with slightly less refined texture but at a fraction of the cost.
Fragrance & Sensitivity
The product appears to be fragrance-free, and multiple users with sensitive eyes report no irritation, making it potentially suitable for those with sensitivities. However, as with any cosmetic, individual reactions can vary.
Sustainability Considerations
The glass packaging is more environmentally friendly than plastic alternatives, though the black plastic lid is likely not widely recyclable. The small size means less waste if you don’t use it regularly.
Final Verdict
The Maybelline ColorTattoo Metal 24HR Cream Gel Eyeshadow in “Too Cool” earns a 4 out of 5-star rating. It delivers exceptional longevity, versatility, and value at its price point. The product’s few shortcomings – primarily the learning curve for application and potential for dryness – are outweighed by its performance once mastered.
Pros:
- Exceptional longevity, often lasting a full day without touch-ups
- Versatile application options (standalone, base, highlight)
- Resistant to creasing, particularly on normal to dry eyelids
- Waterproof properties make it suitable for active wear
- Glass packaging feels more premium than typical drugstore options
- Excellent value compared to high-end alternatives
- Works well for brightening eyes and enhancing other eyeshadows
- Generally well-tolerated by sensitive eyes
Cons:
- Firmer texture requires adaptation for smooth application
- Short blending window before the product sets
- Can emphasize texture on mature or very wrinkled eyelids
- May require special makeup removers for complete removal
- White shade may be too stark/frosty for some skin tones and preferences
- Some users report receiving dried-out product
Recommendations for Use:
- For the most even application, use your ring finger to apply and blend quickly
- For use as a base, apply a thin layer and let it set slightly before applying powder shadows
- For a subtle highlight, tap a small amount onto the inner corners and blend outward
- For maximum longevity on oily lids, pair with a quality eyeshadow primer
- Store the pot upside down to maintain the cream’s moisture level
The Maybelline ColorTattoo in “Too Cool” has earned its cult status in the beauty community for good reason. Despite a few application challenges, it delivers professional-level wear at an affordable price point. For those willing to invest a little time in mastering its application, it offers a versatile, long-wearing addition to any makeup collection.
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