Spoiler alert: It’s like reconnecting with an old friend who hasn’t changed a bit (in the best way possible!)
Quick Facts
- Product: COVERGIRL Clean Makeup Foundation Normal Skin Ivory 105, 1 oz
- Price Range: $5-8 (an absolute STEAL for what you get!)
- Best For: Normal skin, light coverage, everyday wear
- Distinctive Feature: That unmistakable Noxzema smell (love it or hate it!)
Let’s Get Real: My Experience with this Foundation
OK so I’ve gotta be honest here – I’ve been in the beauty industry for YEARS, trying everything from luxury $80 foundations to drugstore finds. But there’s something about this classic Covergirl foundation that keeps people coming back decade after decade. Including me!
When I first squeezed this foundation onto my hand, that signature Noxzema smell immediately hit me. It’s like a time machine in a bottle! If you grew up in the 90s, you KNOW this scent. Some people absolutely love it (it’s kind of refreshing and clean), while others find it too medicinal. The scent does fade after application, so don’t worry too much if you’re not a fan.
Texture & Application
The texture is probably the biggest selling point. It’s SUPER lightweight and liquidy – almost water-based feeling. This isn’t your thick, heavy-duty foundation. It pours easily (sometimes a little TOO easily if you’re not careful), and spreads like a dream.
I found the best application method is:
- Using fingers for a natural finish
- A damp beauty sponge for the lightest coverage
- A foundation brush if you want more precision
One thing I tried that worked AMAZINGLY – mixing a tiny drop of water with it in my palm before applying. Since it’s water-based, this creates an even more sheer, natural finish that just evens out your skin tone without looking like makeup at all.
Coverage & Finish
Let’s get something straight – this is LIGHT coverage. If you’re looking for something to completely cover acne scars or significant discoloration, this ain’t it. But that’s actually why I love it for everyday wear!
It provides just enough coverage to:
- Even out redness
- Slightly blur imperfections
- Create a fresh, clean canvas
The finish is natural to slightly dewy on my normal skin. Not matte, not super glowy – just your skin but better. It doesn’t settle into fine lines either, which is pretty impressive for a budget foundation.
Longevity & Performance
For a lightweight, inexpensive foundation, the staying power is decent! It lasts about 6-7 hours on me before starting to fade. Not incredible, but definitely good enough for a regular workday.
It does transfer a bit if you touch your face, so setting with a light powder helps. It also builds decently if you need to touch up during the day – it doesn’t get cakey when layered, which I LOVE.
Shade Range & Undertones
I tested the Ivory 105, which is one of the lightest shades. It has neutral to slightly cool undertones that work well for fair skin. The shade range isn’t the most extensive, which is definitely a drawback of this older formula. Covergirl definitely needs to expand their range to be more inclusive.
For reference, I’m usually a “fair neutral” in most foundation ranges, and this matched me really well.
The Good, The Bad, and The Nostalgic
What I LOVE
- The lightweight, natural finish
- How easily it blends into skin
- The affordable price point (seriously, you can’t beat it!)
- No breakouts or skin irritation (a BIG deal for sensitive skin)
- The way it doesn’t settle into fine lines or pores
- The easy removal – just regular cleanser takes it right off
What Could Be Better
- The scent is divisive (though I personally don’t mind it)
- Limited shade range
- Not enough coverage for significant blemishes
- Could use better staying power for long days
- The packaging is basic (but functional)
The Nostalgia Factor
There’s something special about using a product that has been around for decades. As one reviewer mentioned, “I have spent the last nearly three decades listening to beauty articles telling me I shouldn’t wear the same ‘garbage’ makeup I wore in high school because skin needs change, etc. Well, this is what I wore in high school, and I have spent thousands of dollars and many years trying to find a foundation that will work well for my skin. Nothing works.”
And that’s the thing – sometimes the classics are classics for a reason! This foundation has loyal users who have been wearing it for 20+ years, which says something about its consistent quality.
Specific Skin Types & Ages
What surprised me most was how well this works for MATURE skin! Several reviewers in their 50s, 60s, and even 70s swear by this foundation:
“I’m fifty-eight and have fine lines and wrinkles around my mouth, and this foundation sits wonderfully on my skin.”
“Us mature ladies, this is the bomb! Great stuff.”
“I’m elderly and days of heavy makeup are over. Touch of foundation, blush and mascara is good for me.”
The lightweight formula seems to be the key – it doesn’t settle into fine lines or look cakey on more mature skin.
Comparison to Similar Products
How does it stack up to other drugstore foundations?
- vs. Maybelline Fit Me: The Covergirl is lighter in coverage and more water-based
- vs. L’Oreal True Match: Similar lightweight feel, but L’Oreal has better shade range
- vs. Neutrogena Healthy Skin: Both are good for normal skin, but Neutrogena has added skincare benefits
- vs. Wet n Wild Photo Focus: Covergirl has less coverage but feels more comfortable and natural
For the price point, this Covergirl foundation definitely holds its own against newer drugstore formulas.
Purchasing Tips & Warnings
A few important notes from my research and testing:
- Product Quality: Some reviewers reported receiving product that seemed old or potentially counterfeit when ordering online. Make sure you purchase from reputable sellers!
- Packaging Variations: There seem to be different caps (blue vs. silver) on different bottles, which confused some customers. This appears to be normal packaging variations, though.
- Formula Variations: Covergirl makes several versions of this foundation (for normal skin, sensitive skin, oily skin). Make sure you’re getting the right one for your needs.
Final Verdict: Should You Buy It?
If you’re looking for a lightweight, everyday foundation that:
- Feels like nothing on your skin
- Gives a natural “your skin but better” look
- Won’t break the bank
- Works well for normal to dry skin
- Doesn’t settle into fine lines
Then YES! This foundation is absolutely worth trying.
But skip it if:
- You need medium to full coverage
- You’re sensitive to fragrances
- You have very oily skin
- You need all-day, transfer-proof wear
This foundation has stood the test of time for good reason. Sometimes the simplest products with the fewest bells and whistles just WORK. And for many people, this $6 foundation outperforms products ten times its price.
As one loyal user perfectly summed it up: “I’ve tried over 30 other foundations and this is the one.”
Application Hacks From Long-Time Users
One thing I love about researching established products is discovering unique application methods from devoted users. Here are some clever tips from reviewers:
- “I put a dime size blob in my hand, squirt a little water on it, mix it up, blend it on my face, go over it with a damp make-up pad, and I’m done.”
- “Would supplement under eyes and acne with something thicker underneath if I’m really trying to look fancy.” (Using this as an all-over base and spot-concealing with a heavier product)
- Apply with fingers for the most natural finish – the warmth of your fingers helps it blend seamlessly
These little tricks can make a good product even better!
The Bottom Line
The COVERGIRL Clean Makeup Foundation has remained essentially unchanged for decades – and that’s because it WORKS. It might not have the fanciest packaging or the trendiest marketing, but it delivers exactly what it promises: clean, light, comfortable coverage at an affordable price.
If you’re tired of chasing the newest, most hyped foundation and just want something reliable that makes your skin look naturally better, give this drugstore classic a try. Sometimes the old standards are standards for a reason!
Have you tried this foundation? What’s your experience been? Let me know in the comments!
Buy on Amazon: Here
