Hey beauty lovers! Today I’m diving DEEP into one of the most affordable and accessible powder foundations on the market – CoverGirl’s Simply Powder Foundation in Ivory (505). After analyzing tons of real customer feedback and experiences, I’ve put together everything you need to know before adding this to your makeup bag!
Quick Stats
- Price Point: Super affordable (cheaper than Walmart when purchased in 2-packs online)
- Size: 0.41 oz compact
- Finish: Semi-matte with cream-to-powder formula
- Coverage: Light to medium, buildable
- Best For: Normal to oily/combination skin types
- Cruelty-Free: YES! 100% bunny-safe
The Good Stuff (What Users LOVE)
Value That Can’t Be Beat
Let’s start with the obvious – this stuff is CHEAP! Multiple reviewers mentioned finding this as a 2-pack online for less than a single compact costs at Walmart (where it runs about $9). For anyone on a budget or who just doesn’t want to spend a fortune on makeup, this is a serious winner.
Application Is Actually Easy
The compact comes with a small sponge applicator that most users find genuinely useful (not just a throwaway applicator you’ll immediately replace). The cream-to-powder formula goes on smoothly and blends quickly – way faster than liquid foundations according to several reviewers. One user in their 70s mentioned how simple it is to apply, which is a big plus for those with dexterity issues or who want a fuss-free routine.
Works Surprisingly Well for Mature Skin
This was a standout point in my research – MULTIPLE older women (55+, 70+) specifically praised how well this foundation works on aging skin. Unlike many powder products that settle into fine lines, users report that this “never settles unattractively into crow’s feet or other burgeoning creases and lines.” It covers discoloration while still looking natural, which can be a hard balance to strike.
Lightweight Feel
Nearly everyone mentions how this doesn’t feel heavy or cakey on the skin. If you hate that “I’m wearing makeup” feeling, this might be your jam. One user who tried many foundations said, “I have been looking for a foundation that doesn’t feel like I am wearing any makeup. I feel like I have found that with this.”
The Ivory Shade Works for Fair Skin
For those with truly pale complexions, finding a match can be tough. Multiple reviewers with fair skin noted that the Ivory shade (505) works well without making them look orange or too dark – though opinions did vary on this point (more on that later).
Cruelty-Free Status
Several users specifically called out CoverGirl’s commitment to being 100% cruelty-free as a major selling point. One passionate reviewer wrote: “CoverGirl is 100% Bunny Safe and Cruelty Free. Now THAT is something to smile about! No more scouring the net for quality cruelty free makeup in colors I can wear.”
Good for Touch-Ups
The compact format makes this perfect for throwing in your purse for quick touch-ups throughout the day. Just be aware that several users mentioned the compact opens easily, with one recommending putting a rubber band around it if carrying in your purse.
The Not-So-Great (Common Complaints)
Inconsistent Color Perception
This is probably the most divisive issue. Some users felt the Ivory shade appeared darker in the compact than it applied on skin, while others thought it was lighter than expected. Several mentioned that the powder looks dramatically different in the pan versus on the face. One user even thought the color was so off they wondered if they got the wrong shade entirely!
Limited Coverage
If you’re looking for full coverage, this probably isn’t your product. Most described it as light to medium coverage at best. One user noted it “doesn’t layer well for full coverage” while another said it’s “okay if you have a good powder to put on top.”
Packaging Issues
MANY users reported packaging problems. The most common complaints:
- Compacts arriving broken or shattered
- The mirror falling out immediately
- The compact design being backwards (the cover needs to be flipped)
- The hinge feeling loose or breaking easily in purses
- Some even received completely empty compacts or ones that appeared used 😬
Formula Changes
Some long-time users suggest the formula has changed. One reviewer who had used it for years lamented: “I bought this bc it used to give a perfect matte finish with the perfect amount of coverage. Not anymore…”
Staying Power Varies
While some found it lasted well throughout the day, others felt it required frequent touch-ups. One user specifically mentioned it “leaves my skin greasy and not much coverage. Sinks into pores and makes them look larger.”
Who Should Buy This?
THIS IS FOR YOU IF:
- You’re on a tight budget but still want decent makeup
- You prefer light, natural-looking coverage
- You have normal to slightly oily skin
- You’re looking for a quick, easy application
- You’re in your 40s, 50s, or beyond and want something that doesn’t emphasize lines
- Cruelty-free status is important to you
- You want something compact for your purse
SKIP THIS IF:
- You need serious coverage for significant discoloration or blemishes
- You have very dry skin (powders typically aren’t ideal)
- You need something that stays put for 12+ hours without touch-ups
- You’re picky about packaging quality
Application Tips From Experienced Users
- Flip That Cover! Several users mentioned the cover comes packaged backwards to show the product. Simply unsnap, turn around, and snap back on.
- Primer Helps:Â One 54-year-old user with dry skin mentioned using Stila color correcting primer after moisturizer for best results.
- Double-Duty:Â Many users apply this over liquid foundation as a setting powder AND use it alone on lighter makeup days.
- Careful with the Compact:Â Consider putting a rubber band around it if carrying in your purse, as the hinge seems prone to opening.
- Sponge vs. Brush:Â While the included sponge works well for many, some prefer using a fluffy brush for lighter application, especially when using it over liquid foundation.
My Final Take
After sifting through all this feedback, I see the CoverGirl Simply Powder Foundation as the Toyota Corolla of the makeup world – not fancy or exciting, but reliably gets the job done at a great price point. It’s been a staple for many users for YEARS (some mentioned using it for 15+ years!), which speaks volumes about its consistent performance.
The number of mature women specifically recommending this product surprised me in the best way. Finding makeup that works well on aging skin without breaking the bank can be challenging, so that’s a significant point in its favor.
That said, the packaging quality issues are concerning. If you’re ordering online, be prepared for potential breakage or defects that might require returns or replacements.
For $9 or less, this seems like a reasonable gamble if you’re looking for an affordable, easy-to-use foundation that gives natural-looking coverage. Just don’t expect it to perform like a $40 high-end product, and you’ll likely be satisfied with what you get.
Would I recommend it? For everyday, low-maintenance makeup users who prefer a natural look – absolutely! For those needing serious coverage or all-day wear without touch-ups, you might want to invest in something more heavy-duty.
Have you tried this CoverGirl foundation? I’d love to hear YOUR experiences with it in the comments below! 💄✨
Buy on Amazon: Here
