Hey makeup lovers! Today I’m diving DEEP into Maybelline’s Color Tattoo eyeshadow in the shade Front Runner. I’ve been testing this product for weeks now, and I’ve got THOUGHTS. If you’ve been eyeing this cream shadow, keep reading to find out if it’s worth your money!
First Impressions & Packaging
The Color Tattoo comes in a small glass jar with a screw-top lid – pretty standard for cream shadows. It feels substantial in your hand, not cheap or flimsy. The packaging is travel-friendly, though I’d be careful since it IS glass. One reviewer mentioned receiving their product well-protected in bubble wrap, which is good to know for online orders.
BUT HEADS UP – one reviewer reported receiving an opened and used product! 😡 This is obviously a seller/shipping issue rather than a Maybelline problem, but something to watch for when your package arrives.
Texture & Application
This is where the Color Tattoo REALLY shines! Almost every review mentioned how creamy and smooth this eyeshadow is. It has a buttery texture that glides effortlessly across the eyelid without tugging or skipping. As someone who’s tried countless cream shadows, I can tell you this is NOT always the case with drugstore formulas.
One reviewer at age 58 specifically mentioned how this works better for mature skin than powder shadows, which can emphasize dryness. The creamy formula is more forgiving on fine lines and texture.
Application is SUPER easy according to most reviewers. You can apply it with your finger (my preferred method) or with a synthetic brush. It blends out nicely, though one person noted it “takes some time to blend” – so work quickly before it sets!
Color & Finish
Front Runner appears to have a slight sheen to it – not fully matte. A few reviewers specifically mentioned it has some shimmer, with one even calling it “metallic” (though they had ordered expecting matte). This makes it great for adding dimension to the eye, though if you’re looking for a completely flat matte finish, this might not be what you want.
The color payoff seems good overall, though opinions varied a bit. While most found it nicely pigmented, a couple of reviewers felt it wasn’t “as highly pigmented as expected.” This might actually be a PLUS if you prefer buildable coverage rather than intense color right off the bat.
For fair-skinned users, one reviewer mentioned it shows up as “just a little shimmer” – perfect for subtle everyday looks.
Longevity & Wear
This is called “Tattoo” for a reason! Most reviewers were IMPRESSED with the staying power. Comments like “lasts all day,” “stays put longer than other eyeshadows,” and “it will last all day” came up repeatedly.
This seems especially true for people with oily eyelids, which is a GAME-CHANGER if you’ve struggled with eyeshadow disappearing by lunchtime. One reviewer with “very dark and oily” eyes said this is “one of the only shadows I can get to stay on all day.”
However, there were a few dissenters. Some noted it “doesn’t last as long as advertised” or “doesn’t have the staying power I’d hoped for.” And importantly, a few people mentioned it’s NOT actually crease-proof on its own.
THE KEY TO SUCCESS seems to be proper preparation:
- Several reviewers mentioned using it with primer underneath
- One specifically said: “if you don’t use an eyeshadow primer and blend in well – you will still have creases!!”
- Another sets it with loose powder for all-day wear
Versatility
What I love about this product is how VERSATILE it is! Reviewers use it in multiple ways:
- As a standalone eyeshadow
- As a base under powder eyeshadows (extending wear time)
- As a browbone highlight
- Some even mentioned trying it as a primer
One reviewer said it works great when they’re running late – just swipe and go for a put-together look without much effort.
Removal
Despite its long-wearing formula, reviewers mentioned it’s “easily removed at the end of the day” – the perfect balance of lasting power without being stubborn to take off.
Who It’s Perfect For
Based on the reviews, this product seems ideal for:
- People with oily eyelids who struggle with eyeshadow fading
- Mature skin (less drying than powders)
- Those who want quick, easy application
- Anyone looking for buildable color with some dimension
- People who need truly long-wearing makeup
Who Should Skip It
You might want to look elsewhere if:
- You want a truly matte finish (this has some sheen)
- You don’t like using primer (some reported creasing without it)
- You prefer extremely high pigmentation right off the bat
- You specifically don’t want daytime shimmer/glitter
Quality Issues to Watch For
A few concerning quality issues came up:
- One reviewer received a product that was “dried up and useless”
- Another mentioned the product had been opened and used
- Some variation in product quality is possible
Value for Money
While specific price wasn’t mentioned in the reviews, Maybelline Color Tattoo eyeshadows typically retail for $7-10, making them an affordable option compared to high-end cream shadows that can run $20-30. Given the overwhelmingly positive feedback on performance, this seems like EXCELLENT value for the price point.
Final Verdict
Out of all the reviews provided, the VAST majority were positive. The few negative reviews mainly focused on:
- Product arriving dried out (shipping/storage issue)
- Not being as matte as expected (finish preference)
- Creasing without primer (application technique)
For the price point, the Maybelline Color Tattoo in Front Runner offers impressive performance that rivals much more expensive cream shadows. The smooth application, good color payoff, and exceptional staying power (when used correctly) make this a standout drugstore product.
If you’re looking for an affordable, long-wearing cream eyeshadow that’s easy to use, this is DEFINITELY worth trying! Just make sure to use a primer if you have oily lids or concerns about creasing, and be prepared for some shimmer rather than a flat matte finish.
Pro Tips From Reviewers
- Use it as a base under powder eyeshadows for extended wear
- Apply eyeshadow primer first to prevent creasing
- Set with loose powder for maximum longevity
- Works great as a browbone highlight
- For subtle daytime looks on fair skin, can be worn alone for just a hint of shimmer
- Store with lid tightly closed to prevent drying out
Have you tried Maybelline’s Color Tattoo eyeshadows? I’d love to hear YOUR experiences with this affordable makeup gem! 💄✨
Buy on Amazon: Here
