Tarte Smooth Operator Tinted Moisturizer SPF 20

*Est. $36 for 1.7 oz.
Reviewed
May 2011
Tarte Smooth Operator Tinted Moisturizer SPF 20

Tinted moisturizer

Pros
  • Lightweight
  • Moisturizing
  • Full of antioxidants
  • Good coverage
Cons
  • Translucent packaging
  • Dries to a darker shade
  • Expensive

Reviewers say that Tarte Smooth Operator Tinted Moisturizer SPF 20 is unlike other tinted moisturizers in that it can cover minor imperfections while still allowing natural skin to show through. Experts say that it is an excellent option for those who don't like the heavy feel of a foundation. It also provides all of the benefits of a daytime moisturizer, including several antioxidants and broad spectrum sun protection. Tarte Smooth Operator uses natural ingredients, including several minerals and plant extracts, as well as physical sun blockers titanium dioxide and zinc oxide. Users like that it is lightweight, goes on smoothly and blends easily into the skin. It comes in nine shades, but the tint dries to a darker shade than what initially appears on the skin. (Users say the color you see in the bottle is very close to what it dries to on skin.) Unfortunately, its bottle is clear, which does not protect the antioxidants from light exposure and degrades their efficacy. It is, therefore, important to store the container in a dark place. If you prefer a separate facial moisturizer, experts recommend Olay Regenerist UV Defense Regenerating Lotion SPF 15 (*Est. $20 for 2.5 oz.).

We turned to Beautypedia.com for in-depth analysis of Tarte Smooth Operator Tinted Moisturizer. Here Paula Begoun compares the formula to hundreds of other beauty products and bases her opinions on the efficacy of ingredients. User reviews at MakeupAlley.com and Sephora.com are a good source for evaluation of overall wearability and comfort.

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Olay Regenerist Regenerating Lotion with UV Protection, 2.5 -Fluid Ounce
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Our Sources

1. Sephora.com

Paula Begoun praises Tarte Smooth Operator for its lightweight texture that blends easily and wears well for hours at a time. Furthermore, she says that the formula is moisturizing and loaded with antioxidants. The only downfall is that it comes in translucent bottle that cannot protect the antioxidants from exposure to light.

Review: Smooth Operator Oil-Free Tinted Moisturizer with SPF 20 by Tarte Cosmetics, Paula Begoun, March 17, 2011

2. MakeupAlley.com

More than 370 reviewers at MakeupAlley.com give Tarte Smooth Operator high overall marks. Most like the excellent coverage, which is better than most tinted moisturizers but still looks natural. Many also appreciate the high level of sun protection and natural ingredients. A few point out that it dries to a darker shade than what appears with initial application.

Review: Tarte Smooth Operator, Contributors to MakeupAlley.com

3. Sephora.com

Reviewers at Sephora.com are generally pleased with Tarte Smooth Operator. Most say that it provides sheer-to-medium coverage that lasts all day and feels light on the skin. A few, however, say they wish that it provided more coverage, but that is common complaint with all tinted moisturizers.

Review: Tarte Smooth Operator SPF 20, Contributors to Sephora.com

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