Hey there, beauty lovers! Today I’m diving DEEP into one of the most talked-about drugstore foundations for mature skin – the COVERGIRL+OLAY Simply Ageless Instant Wrinkle-Defying Foundation in shade 210 Classic Ivory. I’ve gathered feedback from TONS of real users to give you the most honest, no-BS review possible!
Quick Overview
Price Point: $12-15 (varies by retailer – Amazon is sometimes pricier than Target/Walmart)
Format: Cream foundation in compact
Claims: Moisturizing, wrinkle-defying, suitable for aging skin, with SPF protection
Shade Range: Limited, but 210 Classic Ivory works well for fair skin tones
Let’s Talk About The Good Stuff!
1. Perfect for Mature Skin (MOSTLY)
The BIGGEST selling point of this foundation is how it works on mature skin. So many users in their 50s, 60s, and 70s are RAVING about how this doesn’t settle into fine lines and wrinkles like other foundations. One 74-year-old user with “crepey” skin around her mouth was THRILLED that she could finally wear makeup again without it looking cakey or unnatural!
A 55-year-old user with fair, cool skin found that 210 Classic Ivory matched her perfectly, even though she had struggled to find the right shade when the product first launched years ago.
2. Texture That Actually WORKS
The cream formula feels silky smooth going on – it’s definitely not your typical heavy foundation. Many users described it as:
- “Silky feeling”
- “Glides on”
- “Melts into skin”
- “Not cakey or drying”
The moisturizing ingredients from Olay make a BIG difference, especially for those with dry or combination skin. Several users mentioned switching from powder foundations because they were too drying, and finding this to be the perfect alternative.
3. Build-able Coverage
This isn’t a full-coverage mask, but you CAN build it up where needed. Many users apply it lightly all over and then use it as a concealer in problem areas (like under the eyes or on red spots). The cream formula makes this super easy – no need for separate products!
4. Packaging Design (When It Works…)
The compact design includes a separate compartment for the application sponge, keeping things clean and hygienic. Great for touch-ups on the go!
5. Sun Protection Bonus
The added SPF is a nice touch for daily protection. While you shouldn’t rely on it as your only sunscreen for extended outdoor time, it’s perfect for everyday errands and indoor activities.
Now For The Not-So-Great
1. THE PACKAGING STRUGGLE IS REAL!
Oh. My. Goodness. The number one complaint across DOZENS of reviews is that this thing is IMPOSSIBLE to open sometimes! Multiple users reported:
- Having to use tools to pry it open
- Asking stronger family members for help
- Giving up entirely and returning the product
One user even had several men try to open it without success! For anyone with arthritis or hand mobility issues, this is a MAJOR design flaw.
2. Product Consistency Issues
Several customers received products that appeared to have melted and resolidified, with the swirl pattern no longer intact. Others complained of receiving dried-out products or ones that felt “greasy” on the outside of the container.
3. Missing Applicators
Multiple users received compacts without the promised applicator sponge. While many prefer to use their own brushes or beauty blenders anyway, it’s disappointing not to receive the complete product as advertised.
4. Not Great for Very Oily Skin
Those with very oily skin reported that the foundation can separate on their face after a few hours, particularly around the T-zone. Setting powder helps, but it still might not last all day without touch-ups.
5. Application Learning Curve
Some users found it challenging to apply at first. The included sponge got mixed reviews, with many preferring to use:
- A flat kabuki brush
- A damp beauty blender
- Clean fingertips
One user specifically advised AGAINST wiping it on, suggesting a dabbing motion works best, especially for those with dry patches or blemishes.
Skin Type Compatibility
Works GREAT for:
- Dry to normal skin
- Combination skin (with setting powder on oily areas)
- Sensitive skin (many mentioned no irritation)
- Mature skin with fine lines and wrinkles
Might be problematic for:
- Very oily skin types
- Those with deep wrinkles (can still settle in very deep lines)
Shade 210 Classic Ivory: Who’s It For?
210 Classic Ivory seems to work best for:
- Fair to light skin tones
- Those with neutral to slightly cool undertones
Multiple reviewers with very fair skin and red hair mentioned this shade being perfect – and sometimes even a touch too light! If you typically wear the lightest shade in most foundations, this could work well for you.
Application Tips From Actual Users
- Less is more! Start with just a little product and build up as needed.
- Damp beauty blender works better than the included sponge for many users.
- Flat kabuki brush is recommended by several reviewers for the most even application.
- DAB, don’t wipe – especially on areas with dryness or blemishes.
- Go easy on moisturizer underneath – one user noted that too much moisturizer can prevent the foundation from setting properly.
- Set with powder if you have combination or oily skin.
The Bottom Line: Is It Worth It?
For $12-15, this foundation delivers IMPRESSIVE results, especially for those with mature skin. The collaboration between COVERGIRL and Olay clearly brings the best of both worlds – makeup coverage and skincare benefits.
If you can get past the frustrating packaging and don’t mind the limited shade range, this is genuinely one of the best drugstore foundations for aging skin. Many users reported switching from high-end department store brands costing 3-4 times as much and being happier with this product!
Who Should Buy It:
- Anyone with mature skin looking for a foundation that won’t enhance wrinkles
- Those with dry to combination skin
- Fair-skinned individuals who struggle to find light enough shades
- Anyone wanting a cream foundation with buildable coverage
- Those looking for a foundation with added skincare benefits
Who Should Skip It:
- Those with very oily skin
- Anyone with hand mobility issues (due to difficult packaging)
- Those needing a very specific shade match (limited range)
Final Rating: 4.2/5 ⭐⭐⭐⭐
COVERGIRL+OLAY Simply Ageless Foundation delivers where it counts most – making aging skin look AMAZING without emphasizing fine lines and wrinkles. The packaging issues are frustrating, but what’s inside works so well that many users are willing to struggle through opening it anyway!
Have you tried this foundation? I’d love to hear YOUR experience with it!
Buy on Amazon: Here
