In the vast sea of beauty products that flood the market today, finding the perfect concealer can feel like searching for a needle in a haystack. As someone who has tested countless concealers over the years, I understand the frustration that comes with this search. Today, I’m diving deep into one of the most talked-about drugstore concealers: the Maybelline New York Fit Me! Concealer in shade 35 Deep.
This affordable gem has garnered quite the reputation among beauty enthusiasts, and I’m here to break down whether it lives up to the hype. From its formula and application to its performance on different skin concerns, I’ll cover every aspect to help you determine if this concealer deserves a spot in your makeup collection.
Product Overview
The Maybelline New York Fit Me! Concealer comes in a sleek, transparent tube with a black cap, allowing you to see the exact shade inside. At 0.23 fluid ounces, it’s compact enough to slip into even the smallest makeup bag or pocket, making it perfect for on-the-go touch-ups. The product features a doe-foot applicator, which many users appreciate for its precision and ease of use.
Shade 35 Deep is marketed for individuals with deeper skin tones, though as we’ll discuss later, opinions vary on how “deep” this shade actually is. The concealer promises to deliver a natural-looking finish while effectively concealing imperfections, and it’s oil-free, which makes it suitable for various skin types.
Formula and Texture
The Fit Me! Concealer boasts a creamy, lightweight formula that strikes an impressive balance between coverage and blendability. Unlike some concealers that feel heavy or cakey on the skin, this one melts seamlessly into the complexion, creating a second-skin effect that looks natural rather than mask-like.
The consistency is neither too thick nor too runny—it’s just right for building coverage without looking overdone. This medium-coverage formula can be layered for more intense concealing when needed, making it versatile enough for both everyday wear and more polished looks.
What sets this concealer apart from many others at its price point is its hydrating properties. It doesn’t emphasize dry patches or fine lines, which is particularly beneficial for the delicate under-eye area. The smooth, creamy texture makes blending a breeze, whether you prefer using your fingertips, a beauty sponge, or a brush.
Application and Blendability
The small doe-foot applicator that comes with the Fit Me! Concealer is one of its standout features. Unlike some concealers that dispense too much product at once (particularly those with click-pen packaging), this wand allows for precise application exactly where you need it. This design is especially advantageous for spot concealing blemishes or targeting specific areas of discoloration.
When it comes to blending, this concealer performs admirably. It doesn’t set too quickly, giving you ample time to work it into your skin for that seamless finish. The formula plays well with other products too—it can be applied under or over foundation without pilling or creating that dreaded patchy appearance.
For best results, I recommend warming the product between your fingertips before applying, as this helps it melt into the skin even more beautifully. When using it for under-eye concealing, apply in small dots and pat gently with your ring finger for the most natural-looking coverage.
Coverage and Performance
The Fit Me! Concealer offers medium coverage that can be built up to nearly full coverage with additional layers. It excels at concealing:
- Moderate dark circles
- Redness around the nose and cheeks
- Post-inflammatory hyperpigmentation
- Minor blemishes and skin imperfections
Where this concealer truly shines is in its ability to conceal without looking heavy or obvious on the skin. It imparts a natural, skin-like finish that doesn’t scream “I’m wearing concealer!” This makes it an excellent choice for those who prefer a more subtle, everyday makeup look.
One particularly impressive aspect of its performance is how well it works on active breakouts. Many concealers tend to flake or separate when applied to blemishes, but the Fit Me! formula adheres well to these problem areas without exacerbating their appearance. This makes it a reliable option for those dealing with acne or occasional breakouts.
Longevity and Wear
For a drugstore concealer, the Fit Me! offers impressive staying power. It holds up well through an average 8-hour day, though you may notice some fading or creasing by the end of that time frame. Setting it with a light dusting of translucent powder significantly extends its wear time and prevents creasing, particularly in the under-eye area.
The concealer doesn’t oxidize dramatically throughout the day, which means the color you apply in the morning remains relatively consistent as hours pass. This is a notable advantage, as many concealers tend to darken or change undertone as they interact with the skin’s natural oils and the environment.
In terms of transfer resistance, it performs adequately but isn’t completely budge-proof. You may notice some transfer if you touch your face frequently or during particularly hot, humid days. However, for its price point, the longevity is quite remarkable.
Shade Range and Undertones
Here’s where we encounter the most significant criticism of the Fit Me! Concealer in shade 35 Deep. Despite being marketed as a deep shade, many users with darker skin tones find it lacking in depth. The shade appears to lean more toward a medium-deep range rather than truly deep, which can be disappointing for those with richer complexions.
The undertone of shade 35 Deep appears to be neutral to warm, which works well for many skin tones but may not be ideal for those with very cool undertones. If you have a deeper complexion, it’s highly recommended to:
- Swatch the product at your local drugstore before purchasing
- Check online swatches from beauty influencers with similar skin tones
- Watch video reviews that include live swatching to get a better sense of the true color
This limitation in the deep shade range is unfortunately common among drugstore brands, though many companies, including Maybelline, have been expanding their offerings in recent years to be more inclusive.
Value and Price Point
One of the most compelling aspects of the Maybelline Fit Me! Concealer is its exceptional value. Priced significantly lower than high-end alternatives while delivering comparable (and sometimes superior) performance, it represents an excellent investment for beauty enthusiasts on a budget.
The price-to-performance ratio is particularly impressive when you consider that many users report a single tube lasting several months with regular use. The 0.23 fluid ounce quantity may seem small, but a little goes a long way with this formula, making it even more economical in the long run.
When purchased online through retailers like Amazon, you can often find this concealer at an even lower price than in physical stores, adding to its appeal as a budget-friendly option that doesn’t compromise on quality.
Comparison to Higher-End Alternatives
What’s perhaps most remarkable about the Fit Me! Concealer is how favorably it compares to much more expensive options. Many beauty enthusiasts, including those who have tried luxury concealers from brands like NARS, YSL, Laura Mercier, and Lancome, find themselves returning to this humble drugstore option time and again.
While it may not have the luxurious packaging or prestige factor of high-end alternatives, the performance often matches or exceeds products that cost three to four times as much. The formula’s balance of coverage, blendability, and natural finish puts it in direct competition with concealers that retail for $30+ at department stores and specialty beauty retailers.
That said, there are some areas where premium concealers might still edge out the Fit Me! option:
- Ingredient quality (higher-end products may include more skin-beneficial ingredients)
- Shade diversity (luxury brands often offer more nuanced shade ranges)
- Extreme longevity (some high-end concealers may last longer in challenging conditions)
However, for everyday wear and most common concealing needs, the difference is negligible enough that many choose to save their money and stick with Maybelline.
Versatility in Application
One of the standout qualities of the Fit Me! Concealer is its impressive versatility. Beyond its primary purpose as a concealer, many users employ it creatively in various ways:
As a Foundation Alternative
The concealer’s natural finish and buildable coverage make it an excellent lightweight foundation substitute. For those who prefer minimal makeup or need something compact for travel, applying this concealer to strategic areas of the face can even out skin tone without the heavier feel of foundation.
For Contouring and Highlighting
By selecting shades a few tones darker or lighter than your natural skin tone, the Fit Me! Concealer can be used for subtle contouring and highlighting. The blendable formula makes it ideal for creating dimension without harsh lines or obvious makeup.
As an Eyeshadow Base
The creamy texture creates a smooth canvas for eyeshadow application, helping powder products adhere better and appear more vibrant while preventing creasing throughout the day.
This multi-functionality adds significant value to an already affordable product, making it a versatile workhorse in any makeup collection.
Skin Compatibility
The oil-free formula of the Fit Me! Concealer makes it suitable for a range of skin types, though results may vary depending on your specific concerns:
For Oily/Combination Skin
The lightweight, non-greasy formula works well on oily skin, particularly when set with powder. It doesn’t slide off easily and maintains its coverage reasonably well, even on oilier areas of the face.
For Dry/Normal Skin
The creamy consistency doesn’t cling to dry patches or emphasize texture, making it a good option for those with normal to slightly dry skin. However, those with extremely dry skin may want to ensure they moisturize thoroughly before application.
For Sensitive Skin
While not specifically marketed for sensitive skin, many users report that the Fit Me! Concealer doesn’t cause irritation or breakouts. As with any cosmetic product, however, individual experiences may vary, and those with known sensitivities should patch test before full application.
Potential Drawbacks
No product is perfect, and the Maybelline Fit Me! Concealer does have some limitations worth noting:
Limited Range for Very Deep Skin Tones
As mentioned earlier, shade 35 Deep may not be sufficiently dark for individuals with very deep complexions. This is a significant drawback that Maybelline could address by expanding their shade range further.
Medium Rather Than Full Coverage
Those seeking full-coverage concealing for significant discoloration or very dark under-eye circles may find this product insufficient without building multiple layers, which can potentially look less natural.
Not Entirely Transfer-Proof
Without setting, the concealer may transfer onto clothing or other surfaces, which could be problematic in certain situations.
Packaging Concerns
Some users report receiving products with compromised packaging, such as opened or damaged seals. While this appears to be a rare shipping or handling issue rather than a product flaw, it’s worth mentioning as a potential concern when ordering online.
Tips for Best Results
To maximize your experience with the Maybelline Fit Me! Concealer in shade 35 Deep, consider these professional tips:
- Proper Prep: Always start with moisturized skin, especially around the eyes, to prevent the concealer from clinging to dry areas.
- Strategic Application: Less is more—start with a small amount and build as needed rather than applying too much initially.
- Warming the Product: Warm the concealer between your fingertips before applying to help it melt into the skin more seamlessly.
- Setting Technique: Set with a light dusting of translucent powder using a small, fluffy brush or press the powder gently into the skin with a damp beauty sponge for longer wear.
- Color Correction: For very dark circles, consider using a color corrector beneath the concealer for more effective coverage without heaviness.
- Application Tool Choice: Experiment with different application tools—fingertips provide more warmth and can help the product blend, while a small synthetic brush offers precision for spot concealing.
Who Should Consider This Concealer
The Maybelline New York Fit Me! Concealer in shade 35 Deep is particularly well-suited for:
- Individuals with medium-deep skin tones (though those with very deep complexions may find it insufficient)
- People seeking an affordable, everyday concealer that delivers natural-looking results
- Those who prefer buildable coverage rather than heavy, full-coverage products
- Makeup minimalists who want a multi-purpose product
- Budget-conscious beauty enthusiasts who don’t want to sacrifice quality
- Those dealing with active breakouts who need concealing without exacerbation
Final Verdict
After thorough testing and consideration of user experiences, the Maybelline New York Fit Me! Concealer in shade 35 Deep emerges as a standout drugstore option that punches well above its weight class. Despite some limitations in shade depth for very dark complexions, it offers impressive performance across multiple metrics—blendability, finish, versatility, and value.
What makes this concealer truly special is its ability to deliver results comparable to prestige products at a fraction of the price. It has earned its place as a cult favorite through consistent performance rather than marketing hype, with many users remaining loyal to it despite trying more expensive alternatives.
For those seeking an affordable, reliable concealer that offers natural-looking coverage without breaking the bank, the Maybelline Fit Me! Concealer is difficult to beat. Its staying power in a market flooded with new releases speaks volumes about its quality and effectiveness.
While Maybelline would do well to expand the shade range further to better serve all consumers, this concealer represents excellent value and performance for those who can find their match in the existing offerings. It stands as testament to the fact that exceptional makeup doesn’t always come with a luxury price tag.
Rating: 4.5/5 Stars
The half-star deduction reflects the limited shade range for very deep skin tones and the medium rather than full coverage, which may not meet everyone’s needs. However, for what it aims to do and the price point at which it’s offered, the Maybelline New York Fit Me! Concealer in shade 35 Deep is an outstanding product that deserves a place in your makeup collection.
Buy on Amazon: Here
