Hey guys! So today I’m diving deep into a foundation that’s been around FOREVER but still has a loyal following – the COVERGIRL Clean Makeup Foundation in Warm Beige 145. I’ve spent weeks testing this out in different conditions, and I’ve got THOUGHTS. Plus, I’ve gathered feedback from tons of other users to give you the complete picture. Let’s get into it!
First Impressions & Packaging
The COVERGIRL Clean Makeup Foundation comes in a simple 1 oz glass bottle with a blue cap – nothing fancy here, just practical packaging that’s been their signature for years. It’s lightweight and travel-friendly, which is a HUGE plus if you’re always on the go like me.
When I first opened it, I immediately noticed that familiar Clean foundation scent. Let’s be honest – this product definitely has a distinct smell that reminds some people of Noxzema (that classic medicinal, slightly mentholated scent). Some people LOVE this nostalgic fragrance, while others find it too strong. If you’re sensitive to scents, this is something to consider before purchasing.
Application & Texture
The texture of this foundation is what keeps people coming back year after year. It feels incredibly lightweight and creamy, almost like a moisturizer rather than makeup. It glides on SUPER easily – I’ve applied it with fingers, a brush, and a sponge, and it works well with all three methods.
Unlike many foundations that feel heavy or “cakey” on the skin, this one truly lives up to its “Clean” name. It feels like you’re barely wearing anything, which is PERFECT for those hot summer days when the last thing you want is heavy makeup melting down your face. One reviewer perfectly described it as: “My skin feels like I’m wearing nothing.”
Coverage & Finish
This is a light to medium coverage foundation, so if you’re looking for something to completely cover major imperfections, this might not be your best bet. However, the coverage is buildable without looking heavy. I found that applying a second layer on areas that needed more coverage worked perfectly without compromising the natural look.
The finish is natural and slightly dewy – not too matte and not too shiny. It gives that “your skin but better” look that’s so hard to achieve. As one reviewer mentioned, “Your skin looks very natural and smooth.” This makes it ideal for everyday wear, especially if you prefer a more natural makeup look.
Shade Range & Color Match
The Warm Beige 145 shade is described by many reviewers as a perfect match for light to medium skin tones with warm undertones. Multiple users mentioned that this specific shade is becoming harder to find in stores, which is why they’ve turned to online shopping to get their hands on it.
One particularly impressive comment came from a user whose dental hygienist remarked that the foundation was “the exact color match” to their skin – now THAT’S a good color match! Another user mentioned switching from high-end foundation to this affordable option after finding it was a better color match.
However, the shade range of the entire Clean foundation line isn’t the most extensive on the market. If you have very deep skin tones, you might struggle to find your perfect match.
Longevity & Wear Time
For a lightweight foundation, the COVERGIRL Clean Makeup Foundation has surprisingly good staying power. Most users report that it lasts throughout an entire workday without significant fading or patchiness. One reviewer stated it “stays on all day” without issues.
The foundation doesn’t tend to settle into fine lines or wrinkles, which is a common complaint with many foundations, especially for those with mature skin. A reviewer who typically uses high-end products was pleasantly surprised that this affordable option “did not settle in my fine lines.”
In terms of transfer, it does set fairly well but isn’t completely transfer-proof. If you’re planning to wear it for a special occasion or need extra longevity, setting it with a light powder will help it last even longer.
Skin Benefits & Concerns
Many longtime users mention that this foundation doesn’t cause breakouts, even for those with sensitive or acne-prone skin. The formulation seems to be gentle enough for most skin types, with one user saying, “I always use Covergirl because it has great coverage and does not cause breakouts.”
Several users also appreciate that it contains SPF, providing some sun protection throughout the day. One reviewer mentioned: “I also feel like it works as a sunscreen.” While you shouldn’t rely solely on foundation for sun protection, this added benefit is definitely a plus.
However, there are a few concerning reviews about potential allergic reactions. A small number of users reported irritation after using the product, with one stating, “I got an awful allergic reaction all over my face from this product.” Another concerning point raised by multiple reviewers is the possibility of counterfeit products when purchasing online, which could explain some of the negative reactions.
Value for Money
At its price point (typically under $10), the COVERGIRL Clean Makeup Foundation offers EXCEPTIONAL value for money. Many reviewers mentioned trying more expensive foundations only to return to this affordable option. One user summed it up perfectly: “Have been using this product for many years…tried other, more expensive foundations, but they weren’t any better.. good value for the money.”
The 1 oz bottle lasts quite a while since you don’t need much product for each application. One reviewer mentioned: “I like the product because it takes very little to use.”
Who Should Use This Foundation?
Based on my experience and user reviews, this foundation is PERFECT for:
- People with normal to slightly dry or slightly oily skin
- Those who prefer light to medium coverage
- Anyone who wants a natural, “your skin but better” look
- People who find most foundations too heavy or cakey
- Those with sensitive skin (though patch testing is always recommended)
- Anyone on a budget who doesn’t want to compromise on quality
It might NOT be ideal for:
- Those who need full coverage for significant discoloration or blemishes
- People with extremely oily skin who need a very matte finish
- Those who are sensitive to fragrances
- Anyone with very deep skin tones due to limited shade range
The Online Purchasing Experience
Since the Warm Beige 145 shade has become difficult to find in stores, many users have turned to online shopping. Most report receiving authentic products in good condition, but there are some concerning reviews about potential counterfeit products.
Several red flags to watch for include:
- Different packaging from what you’re used to seeing in stores
- Strange smell or consistency
- Skin irritation that you haven’t experienced with the same product before
- Discoloration or “gunk” around the bottle or cap
One reviewer warned: “This is not real COVERGIRL makeup. I have two different bottles here, the one with the blue cap is the real Cover Girl makeup, however the bottles are completely different and the wording as well.”
To avoid potential issues, consider purchasing directly from authorized retailers or the brand’s official online store.
My Overall Experience
After weeks of testing, I’ve found that the COVERGIRL Clean Makeup Foundation Warm Beige 145 lives up to its reputation as a reliable, affordable foundation. The lightweight feel and natural finish make it perfect for everyday wear, and the fact that it doesn’t cause breakouts is a MAJOR plus.
The scent is definitely noticeable, but I personally find it fades quickly after application. The coverage isn’t as full as some might like, but it’s perfect for those days when you want to look put-together without feeling like you’re wearing a mask.
What impressed me most was how well it matches my skin tone and how it doesn’t settle into fine lines throughout the day. For the price point, it’s truly hard to beat!
Pros and Cons Summary
Pros:
- SUPER lightweight, non-cakey formula
- Natural, skin-like finish
- Good color match for light to medium warm skin tones
- Affordable price point
- Doesn’t cause breakouts for most users
- Contains SPF for added sun protection
- Easy to apply and blend
- Washes off easily
- Long-wearing for a lightweight foundation
Cons:
- Strong scent that may bother some users
- Limited shade range
- Only light to medium coverage
- Potential for counterfeit products when purchasing online
- Some reports of allergic reactions
Final Verdict
The COVERGIRL Clean Makeup Foundation in Warm Beige 145 earns a solid 4.5/5 stars from me. It performs exceptionally well for its price point and provides exactly what it promises – a clean, lightweight feel with natural-looking coverage.
If you’re someone who’s been using high-end foundations but finding them too heavy or not quite right, this drugstore gem might surprise you. And if you’ve been using it for years but struggling to find it in stores, rest assured that authentic versions are still available online (just be careful about your source!).
For everyday wear, especially during warmer months, this foundation is hard to beat. It’s no wonder so many users have remained loyal to it for YEARS despite trying more expensive alternatives!
Have you tried the COVERGIRL Clean Makeup Foundation? I’d love to hear about YOUR experience with it in the comments below!
Buy on Amazon: Here
