Hey there, makeup lovers! Today I’m sharing my COMPLETE thoughts on a drugstore classic that deserves way more attention – the COVERGIRL Clean Simply Powder Foundation. I’ve been testing the Classic Ivory shade for months now, and I have LOTS to tell you about this little compact that packs a punch without breaking the bank.
First Impressions & Packaging
When I first got my hands on this powder foundation, I wasn’t expecting much. Let’s be honest – at this price point (usually under $10), you typically get what you pay for. But SURPRISE! This little compact immediately impressed me with its practical design. Nothing fancy, just a simple case with a mirror and a sponge applicator tucked underneath the product. No-frills packaging, but everything you need.
One thing to note though – several reviewers mentioned receiving products with broken mirrors or damaged packaging. While mine arrived intact, this seems to be a recurring issue worth mentioning.
Color Selection: The Good, The Bad, and The DARK!
Okay, we need to talk about the ELEPHANT in the room – the shade range and especially the color accuracy in online photos! This is hands-down the biggest issue with this product.
I ordered Classic Ivory, which is supposed to be one of the lighter shades. The online photos showed a light, neutral beige, but what many reviewers consistently point out (and I agree) is that the actual product tends to be SIGNIFICANTLY darker than pictured.
As one reviewer perfectly put it: “Upon opening, I was super disappointed at the color because it is darker than the pic.” Another mentioned, “It’s at least three shades darker than what the picture shows.” And this isn’t isolated – dozens of reviews echo this exact sentiment.
PRO TIP: Order 2-3 shades lighter than you think you need based on the photos! The “Creamy Beige” that many reviewers purchased turned out to be more like a medium-dark tan.
Application & Texture
Despite the color challenges, the formula itself is pretty impressive! It goes on super smoothly and feels lightweight on the skin. The texture is what makes this product stand out – it applies creamy but sets to a natural powder finish.
The included sponge applicator works well enough, though some reviewers noted it’s smaller than in previous versions. I find that using my own makeup sponge or brush gives more even coverage, but the included one is perfectly fine for touch-ups on the go.
One reviewer described it perfectly: “It’s lightweight but still manages to cover everything i.e. blemishes, freckles etc. Goes on super creamy and smooth and is easy blendable.”
Coverage & Finish
For a powder foundation, the coverage is surprisingly good! I’d call it a solid medium coverage that’s buildable. It won’t completely hide major discoloration or active breakouts, but it does an excellent job with redness, minor blemishes, and evening out skin tone.
The finish is where this product REALLY shines. It gives that “your skin but better” look – not too matte, not dewy, just a natural satin finish that looks like real skin. As one reviewer who’s been using it for decades mentioned, “It gives you a pore less look, glides on like cream and feels like powder.”
Many reviewers compare it favorably to high-end options: “I’ve used Lancome, and No 7, but this is still my favorite” and “I’ve used this years ago and then started buying more expensive foundation, which was ridiculous as this works better than most of them.”
Staying Power & Wear
For a drugstore powder foundation, the longevity is impressive! It stays put for a good 6-8 hours before needing a touch-up. Several reviewers specifically mentioned its lasting power: “Stays on long and covers facial imperfections” and “Great coverage and stays on.”
That said, if you have very oily skin, you might find it doesn’t hold up as well throughout the day. A few reviewers with oily skin mentioned it can look “blotchy” after several hours. And one reviewer with mature skin noted it “settles in fine lines” – though many others with mature skin said the opposite!
Skin Type Compatibility
This is where things get interesting – this foundation seems to work for MANY different skin types, with some caveats:
Dry Skin: Several reviewers with very dry skin were surprised by how well it worked for them. One person in their 70s mentioned, “I have dry skin, 70 years young, and wrinkled” and still loves this foundation. Another said, “I have very dry skin and this works very well.”
Oily/Combination Skin: Most reviewers with oily skin found it worked well without causing additional shininess, though a few mentioned it can look oily after extended wear.
Sensitive/Acne-Prone Skin: Many reviewers specifically called out that it doesn’t cause breakouts: “Good coverage, doesn’t cause break outs.” However, one reviewer mentioned, “My face tends to break out if I leave it on in extended wear.”
Mature Skin: Multiple reviewers in their 50s, 60s, and 70s swear by this foundation. One person in their 50s said, “It was perfect when I was in my 40’s and now in my 50’s as well.”
Value for Money
This is where the COVERGIRL Clean Simply Powder Foundation absolutely CRUSHES the competition. At around $8-10, it performs like products 4-5 times the price. Multiple reviewers specifically mentioned this value proposition:
“Upon using the sponge provided, under the top, thin layer is the true color as in the first pic and, now I am so happy I bought this especially at the price! I have tried soooo many different foundations over the years from the VERY expensive to this. Why pay 4-5 times the price?”
Another reviewer who switched back from high-end products said, “I want great quality, but you do not have to spend a fortune. I’m glad I made the switch back.”
Who Should Try This? Who Should Skip It?
Try it if:
- You want an affordable foundation that performs like a high-end product
- You prefer medium coverage with a natural finish
- You want something quick and easy for everyday wear
- You have normal, dry, or slightly combination skin
- You’re looking for a powder foundation that doesn’t look powdery
Skip it if:
- You’re shopping online and need an exact color match (the color accuracy issues make this risky)
- You need full coverage for significant discoloration
- You have extremely oily skin that needs heavy oil control
- You want a foundation that stays perfect for 12+ hours without touch-ups
The Verdict
The COVERGIRL Clean Simply Powder Foundation in Classic Ivory is a hidden gem in the drugstore makeup aisle. Despite some significant issues with color accuracy in online photos, the actual product delivers exceptional performance for its price point.
With its creamy application, natural finish, good staying power, and versatility across different skin types, it’s no wonder many reviewers have been loyal to this product for years or even decades. As one reviewer summed it up: “I’ve used this for years nothing better.”
If you’re willing to gamble a bit on the shade (or can see it in person first), this affordable foundation might just replace your expensive favorites. Just remember to choose 2-3 shades lighter than what the online photos suggest!
Rating: 4.2/5 ⭐⭐⭐⭐✩
Pros:
- Affordable price point with high-end performance
- Smooth, creamy application
- Natural, skin-like finish
- Good medium coverage
- Works well for multiple skin types
- Doesn’t cause breakouts for most users
- Lasts well throughout the day
Cons:
- Significant shade discrepancy between online photos and actual product
- Limited shade range
- Some packaging/shipping issues
- Can settle into fine lines for some users
- Smaller applicator than previous versions
Have you tried this foundation? I’d LOVE to hear your thoughts on it, especially which shade worked for you and how you apply it for the best results!
Buy on Amazon: Here
