A Foundation That's Worth Paying More For By peatfire on Jan 15, 2008 - Updated Oct 15, 2011

Finding a foundation is always a challenge. I tried a lot of drugstore brands, plus a few that were high end before I came across Tarte Smooth Operator. $35 seems like a lot to pay, but the tube is 1.7 ounces, almost twice the size of many brands. It gives me decent coverage, but is lighter than most--sort of a cross between a tinted moisturizer and a foundation. I would describe the finish as satin. It isn't oil absorbing and at the same time, it isn't greasy. In fact, drier skin will probably need a moisturizer underneath.

I'm on my third tube, each one lasts me about a year. It contains a physical sunscreen, spf20. I don't use chemical sunscreens, so this is a big plus for me. The tube is very portable, so it's easy to throw in a purse or cosmetics bag for travel.

My only criticism is that I wish it had a bit more shade selection. The lightest shade, Facade, works for me, but I have to add a little gel blush to it because it's a bit too yellow for my skin. However, that's a minor price to pay, as I've yet to find anything better on the market.