Maybelline New York Color Tattoo 24HR Cream Eyeshadow in High Roller is truly one of those beauty finds that catches you off guard—in the best possible way. I’ve always enjoyed exploring different makeup products, and cream eyeshadows have long been a favorite due to their simplicity and ease of application. After coming across the Maybelline Color Tattoo at a local store, I was immediately impressed. The fact that it became increasingly difficult to find locally only made me more eager to ensure I always had a jar at hand, prompting me to repurchase it through Amazon.
Packaging
Let’s talk packaging first. It comes in a cute, small glass jar which feels quite luxurious and substantial. The glass design not only looks attractive on my vanity but also reduces the use of plastic significantly—something I genuinely appreciate. Although the lid is still plastic, the glass component makes it feel a bit more environmentally friendly compared to entirely plastic containers. It also provides an easy view of the eyeshadow color, helping you track usage conveniently.
Texture and Formula
The texture and formula of this eyeshadow deserve special praise. Upon initial application, it’s creamy, blendable, and incredibly easy to use. A small amount of product goes a long way, especially when applied with your fingertips. I usually pat (rather than smear) it onto my eyelids to diffuse the color, achieving a beautiful soft-focus effect. This cream shadow layers wonderfully under powder shadows and can also stand alone, providing a complete eye look effortlessly.
Color Accuracy
Now, onto the shade “High Roller.” Here is where experiences can vary significantly, as the product image online can be slightly misleading. Initially, I expected a cooler taupe color, given the visuals online. However, upon receiving it, the color leaned much warmer—a rich, golden bronze rather than the expected silvery taupe. Although this difference initially disappointed me, I quickly found myself falling for this warmer tone, especially when I noticed how universally flattering it was.
High Roller, despite the initial mismatch, turned out to be a stunning shade. It’s a neutral brownish-bronze with a metallic shimmer that’s pronounced yet subtle enough to remain wearable during the daytime. On olive and medium skin tones, it’s beautifully complementary, giving a sun-kissed, effortless glow. Even lighter skin tones like mine can easily pull off the shade for a naturally radiant look. It’s particularly lovely during summer when a hint of shimmer feels just right.
Performance and Longevity
Performance-wise, the eyeshadow truly lives up to its “Tattoo” name. It is impressively long-lasting and waterproof. My makeup typically struggles to stay put all day due to my oily skin and humid conditions. But the Color Tattoo eyeshadow stays flawless from morning until evening, without creasing, fading, or smudging—even in hot and humid weather or after hours of wear. Once set, it remains firmly in place until I remove it at night with my usual eye makeup remover.
One minor drawback I noticed is that the formula can harden slightly if it’s stored in cooler conditions. On colder days, you might need to warm it up with your fingertips for a smoother application. This additional step, however minimal, might be inconvenient if you’re accustomed to grab-and-go makeup products. Nevertheless, once softened, it applies just as beautifully and evenly as before.
Versatility
Another advantage I observed was its versatility. Besides serving as a primary eyeshadow, it doubles excellently as an eyeshadow primer or base. Applying it beneath other powder shadows significantly increases their vibrancy and staying power, making them crease-resistant. Additionally, the neutral tone of High Roller allows it to blend effortlessly with almost any eyeshadow color, enhancing rather than competing with other makeup looks.
Comparison to High-End Brands
When compared to similar high-end products, notably MAC Paint Pots, this Maybelline eyeshadow emerges as an exceptional dupe at a fraction of the price. The performance parallels, if not surpasses, more expensive brands, providing impressive pigment intensity, ease of blending, and lasting power.
User Feedback
Feedback from others reinforces my positive experiences. My sister, for instance, regularly wears High Roller and receives more compliments than when she creates elaborate eye looks using pricier products. This eyeshadow requires minimal effort, taking literally seconds to apply, yet delivers noticeable results that appear carefully crafted and sophisticated.
That said, some caution is warranted regarding color accuracy. As noted, many online reviewers—including myself—found discrepancies between the listed color images and the actual product. Multiple users expected a taupe shade but instead received varying warmer, golden or coppery hues. Although personally, I came to appreciate the warmth, it’s essential to adjust expectations accordingly to avoid disappointment.
Application Tips
Additionally, while the majority of reviews, including my own, praise its longevity and performance, there are isolated reports of creasing or difficulty blending, especially on oily eyelids or without using a primer. My advice is to apply a thin layer first, allowing it to dry slightly before building up to your desired intensity. Using an eyeshadow primer can further enhance its performance, although it’s not strictly necessary for most users.
Value
Finally, one commendable factor is the exceptional value provided by Maybelline Color Tattoo. For around $6, you’re getting a product that genuinely rivals many premium options. The amount of product (0.14 oz) might seem modest initially, but given how little you need per application, a single jar lasts several months, even with regular usage.
Conclusion
In summary, despite minor challenges with color matching and initial texture hardness when cool, Maybelline New York Color Tattoo in High Roller excels in delivering a long-lasting, easy-to-use, and versatile cream eyeshadow. Its blendable, waterproof formula makes it ideal for busy lifestyles, hot climates, and quick morning routines. If you’re seeking affordable luxury, a beautiful neutral shimmer, and reliable performance, this eyeshadow is undoubtedly worth trying. Just keep an open mind about the exact shade you’ll receive, and chances are you’ll fall as deeply in love with it as I did.
Buy on Amazon: Here
