As a professional makeup artist with over a decade of experience working with clients of all skin types and tones, I’ve had the opportunity to test numerous pressed powder foundations across all price points. Today, I’ll be diving deep into one of the most enduring drugstore staples: the Covergirl Clean Pressed Powder Foundation in shade 140 Natural Beige. This comprehensive review will cover everything from formula and application to color accuracy and longevity, giving you all the information you need to decide if this product deserves a spot in your makeup collection.
First Impressions and Packaging
The Covergirl Clean Pressed Powder Foundation comes in the brand’s signature compact – a practical blue case with a clear window that allows you to see the shade inside. Weighing in at 0.44 ounces, it’s lightweight and slim enough to slip into even the smallest makeup bag or purse pocket. The compact includes a small powder puff applicator tucked neatly beneath the pan, though as we’ll discuss later, you may prefer alternative application methods for optimal results.
Upon opening the compact, you’ll immediately notice the pressed powder’s smooth, finely-milled appearance. The powder has Covergirl’s classic light scent – a subtle floral fragrance that some users appreciate while others find unnecessary in a face product. The packaging feels sturdy enough for everyday use, though the plastic clasp that keeps the compact closed may occasionally break during shipping or with repeated use.
Formula and Ingredients
Covergirl markets this as a “Clean” pressed powder foundation, which might create some confusion for consumers looking for truly clean beauty products. While the formula is relatively simple compared to some foundations, it’s important to note that this isn’t a clean beauty product by today’s standards. The formula does exclude certain ingredients of concern, but it still contains fragrance and some synthetic components.
The powder has a silky texture that feels lightweight on the skin – a notable achievement for a drugstore product. It’s oil-free and non-comedogenic, making it potentially suitable for those with acne-prone skin. The formula strikes a balance between being substantial enough to provide coverage yet fine enough to avoid looking cakey or settling heavily into fine lines.
For those with sensitive skin, the reviews are mixed but promising. Many long-term users report no irritation even after decades of use, which speaks to the gentle nature of the formula for many skin types. One reviewer in her 60s specifically mentioned using the product her “whole life” without irritation, while another praised its non-irritating quality on sensitive skin despite having issues with the shade.
Application and Coverage
This pressed powder foundation offers buildable, light-to-medium coverage. It can be applied in multiple ways:
- With the included puff: Provides the fullest coverage but can look heavier on the skin
- With a powder brush: Creates a more natural, sheer finish
- With a slightly damp makeup sponge: Offers a more seamless blend with underlying foundation
One of this product’s strongest selling points is its versatility. It works well as:
- A finishing powder over liquid foundation to set makeup and reduce shine
- A standalone foundation for light coverage days
- A touch-up product throughout the day
The coverage, while not as comprehensive as liquid foundation, proves sufficient for evening out skin tone and reducing the appearance of minor imperfections. One reviewer specifically noted using it for covering hyperpigmentation spots from acne, with “awesome” results.
The finish is natural and matte without appearing flat or chalky – a delicate balance that drugstore powders often struggle to achieve. It effectively controls oil and shine throughout the day, with one user specifically praising how it “takes away all unwanted shine” when used over foundation.
Color Accuracy and Shade Range
Here’s where we encounter the most significant issue with this particular product, based on multiple user experiences. The shade “140 Natural Beige” appears to have considerable inconsistencies between what customers expect and what they receive. This could be due to several factors:
- Batch variations: Many users who have purchased this shade for years report receiving products that are dramatically darker or more orange than previous purchases
- Online color representation: Product images may not accurately represent the true shade
- Possible reformulation: Some reviews suggest the product may have undergone changes
The most common complaints about the Natural Beige shade include:
- Being significantly darker than expected
- Having an orange or reddish undertone rather than a neutral beige
- Appearing dramatically different from the same shade purchased previously
One particularly detailed review from a 20-year user of pressed powders in this shade range noted this was “the first time I’ve come across this orange shade in the natural beige range,” adding they “just can’t imagine anybody with this kind of orange coloring.”
For those with medium skin tones who need some warmth, this shade might work well. However, those with fair to light skin tones should approach with caution, as multiple reviewers mentioned it being much darker than expected. Some users have found creative workarounds, with one noting they now use the too-dark Natural Beige shade as a contouring powder instead.
Longevity and Performance
When it comes to staying power, this pressed powder foundation performs admirably for its price point. It helps maintain a matte finish for several hours before needing touch-ups, particularly in the T-zone. The product doesn’t oxidize significantly throughout the day, though it may need refreshing after 4-6 hours of wear.
The powder blends well with skin oils over time, avoiding the cakey or patchy appearance that can happen with lower-quality pressed powders. It’s particularly effective at oil control, making it a good option for combination to oily skin types. For very dry skin, you may want to apply a hydrating setting spray afterward to avoid any potential for the product to emphasize dry patches.
One of the product’s best features is its touch-up capability – it layers well over itself without building up excessively or disturbing underlying makeup. This makes it ideal for maintenance throughout the day, especially for controlling shine in the T-zone.
Value and Accessibility
At its typical price point (around $8-10), the Covergirl Clean Pressed Powder Foundation represents excellent value compared to high-end alternatives that can cost three to four times as much. The amount of product (0.44 oz) is standard for pressed powders and should last several months with regular use.
However, some users have reported difficulty finding this specific shade in physical stores, turning to online retailers. This can be problematic given the shade inconsistency issues mentioned earlier, as you can’t test the actual color before purchasing.
Several reviewers specifically mentioned subscribing to regular deliveries through online retailers, suggesting strong brand loyalty and satisfaction with the product despite some of its shortcomings. The value proposition remains strong for those who find their correct shade match.
Travel-Friendliness
This product earns high marks for travel convenience. Its slim, lightweight packaging fits easily into travel makeup bags without adding significant weight or bulk. The secure (when intact) closing mechanism helps prevent makeup accidents in transit.
Several reviewers specifically highlighted its usefulness for travel, with one noting: “I’m trying to get rid of liquids when I travel. I use CG’s liquid foundation, so I thought I would try this. It works.” The same reviewer added they keep it specifically in their travel kit because it’s “small, easy to store in my bag, and makes me look better. Exactly what I want when I travel.”
For travelers seeking to minimize liquids in their carry-on bags or those wanting a low-maintenance makeup option while away from home, this product offers a practical solution.
Scent and Sensory Experience
The Covergirl Clean Pressed Powder Foundation has a distinctive scent that divides opinion. Often described as “flowery” or “classic Covergirl,” this fragrance is noticeable upon application but typically fades after a short time on the skin.
User reactions to the scent vary considerably:
- Some find it nostalgic and pleasant
- Others describe it as unnecessary and potentially irritating
- A few specifically mention it as a positive feature they love about the product
One reviewer noted: “Great coverage. Flowery scent which I don’t care for at all. Get used to it but could do without that smell.” In contrast, another user specifically mentioned loving “the smell, the way I look and feel when I apply it on my face.”
For those sensitive to fragrance in cosmetics, this is an important consideration, as the scent is definitely present during application.
Skin Compatibility and Sensitivity
This pressed powder foundation appears to work well for sensitive skin for many users. Multiple long-term users specifically mentioned using it without irritation for decades, which is impressive for a drugstore cosmetic product.
The non-comedogenic claim seems valid based on user experiences, with no significant mentions of breakouts or clogged pores in the reviews. The powder’s oil-free formula makes it suitable for combination to oily skin types, while those with drier skin may need to ensure proper moisturization beforehand.
One 64-year-old reviewer noted: “I can’t say anything bad about this. Some makeup irritates my skin, but this never has. I love it.” Another mentioned it being “non-irritating to sensitive skin” despite their issues with the shade match.
Comparison to Other Covergirl Products
Some reviewers mentioned a possible discontinuation or reformulation of this product, with one specifically stating: “I very much dislike how its discontinued Covergirl natural beige 140 and now I have to go do research to find a new face Powder. The new powder is bad quality and more expensive.”
This suggests there may have been changes to the product line, potentially explaining some of the shade inconsistencies reported by long-time users. If you’ve been a dedicated user of this shade and product, it might be worth purchasing from different retailers to find stock that matches your expectations, or exploring alternative options within the Covergirl range.
Pros and Cons Summary
Pros:
- Affordable price point
- Lightweight, non-cakey formula
- Good oil control properties
- Non-irritating for many users, even those with sensitive skin
- Versatile (can be used as setting powder or light foundation)
- Travel-friendly packaging
- Easy to apply and touch up throughout the day
- Long-standing reputation and brand reliability
Cons:
- Significant shade inconsistency issues, particularly for the Natural Beige tone
- Noticeable fragrance that may bother some users
- Packaging clasp may break during shipping or with use
- Coverage lighter than liquid foundation
- Potentially misleading “Clean” marketing
- Some availability issues in physical stores
Who Should Try This Product?
The Covergirl Clean Pressed Powder Foundation in Natural Beige would be ideal for:
- Those with light-medium to medium skin tones with warm undertones
- People with normal to oily skin seeking shine control
- Makeup minimalists who prefer light coverage and a natural finish
- Travelers looking for non-liquid makeup options
- Those on a budget seeking a multifunctional face product
- Individuals with sensitive skin who have struggled to find non-irritating foundations
It might not be the best choice for:
- Very fair-skinned individuals (based on shade inconsistency reports)
- Those seeking full coverage
- People with very dry skin
- Those sensitive to fragrance in cosmetics
- Consumers specifically seeking “clean beauty” products by current standards
Final Verdict
The Covergirl Clean Pressed Powder Foundation in 140 Natural Beige is a product with a strong legacy and loyal user base for good reason. It offers reliable performance at an accessible price point, with particularly strong showings in oil control, skin compatibility, and practicality.
However, the shade inconsistency issues can’t be overlooked, especially for a product where color matching is critical. If you’re ordering online, be prepared for the possibility that the Natural Beige shade may be darker or more orange than expected based on numerous user reports.
For those who find a good shade match, this pressed powder foundation represents excellent value and versatility. Its longstanding presence in the drugstore beauty aisle speaks to its effectiveness for many users, despite its limitations. With proper application techniques and realistic expectations about its coverage level, this product can be a valuable addition to your makeup routine – particularly for everyday wear, travel, and touch-ups.
Overall rating: 3.5/5 stars – A solid drugstore option with significant shade consistency issues that prevent it from reaching its full potential.
This review is based on extensive analysis of user experiences with the Covergirl Clean Pressed Powder Foundation in shade 140 Natural Beige, combined with professional makeup artist expertise and industry knowledge.
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