I just want to look good without having to spend too much money… is that too much to ask?

Therefore my favorite thing in the world is a Foundation Dupe.

As someone who would fall into the category “Super Problematic Skin” I am a perfect candidate to test foundation formulas.

And to add to that, some of my stronger

I’m Oily

I have Sensitive Skin

Acne Prone Skin

Acne Scars

Textured Skin

acne medications have now left me with dry patches and fine lines.

Wow, all of a sudden my self esteem hurts…

BUT! I feel that everyone should love themselves, and the skin that they are in… and foundation should make us feel good and not emphasize things we don’t want emphasized.

Today we are going to compare a high end foundation and see if we can find a drug store dupe. Can we look fabulous and save some money??

Let’s Play!

Claims

This Tarte foundation retails for $39 for 1.7 ounces which is greater than the average 1 ounce… (or $22.94 per ounce) It has SPF 15 and claims to be a full coverage foundation with 12 hour wear. It also claims to have “skin smart” technology which allows it to adjust to oily and dry skin types intuitively… fancy.

It does have silicones in it (which I’m sensitive to, Check out my silicone free lists here, and here) but it’s supposed to be hypoallergenic!

This Rimmel foundation is probably one of the cheapest available at the drugstore… anywhere… It claims to reduce pores, and stay matte all day. An interesting thing I noticed is that Rimmel sells shades that are exclusive to Walmart. So apparently Walmart and Rimmel are in cahoots! I’ve compared this Rimmel foundation to another drug store foundation before…

‘Rimmel Stay Matte vs Loreal Total Cover

This also has silicones in it… my poor skin isn’t gonna like today is it?

First Impression

Before

After

Coverage: Rimmel has a higher coverage, a little more than medium, while Tarte has a low-medium coverage.

Finish & Formula: Both felt identical when swatching with a thick, mousse-like formula. I used a brush to get the most coverage from both, and I feel like the Tarte was a little easier to get streak-free.. but just a LITTLE. The Tarte does look slightly more satin-luminous than the Rimmel which looks completely matte.

Mid-day check in

Final check-in

Final Thoughts

You know what… This is totally a dupe! I think that if you’re on the drier side of a combo skin type you might like the Tarte foundation better. BUT if you have oilier skin, and you powder the sh**t out of your nose anyways ( I didnt use primer or setting powder with this review), I think the $5 Rimmel foundation is right up your alley!

I hate more irritated red bumps on my nose on the Tarte side (probably because it’s not oil controlling), but both sides… because they have silicones… made my skin unhappy. (broke me out, let’s use adult words Rica)

What do you think about these foundations? Did they wear differently on your skin type? I would love to know your experiences!

Stay happy and healthy!

-RicaIsHungry

******FULL DISCLOSURE: This are my personal experiences and thoughts. I am not being paid by any brand or the company to review this product or talk about any claims. This product was not sent to me. Some links in this post are part of the amazon affiliates program.*******