Hey beauty lovers! After using COVERGIRL’s Clean Makeup Foundation in Tawny 165 for several weeks now, I’m FINALLY sitting down to share my complete, no-holds-barred review. If you’re considering this drugstore staple, you’ll want to read this before hitting that “add to cart” button!
FIRST IMPRESSIONS: Packaging & Appearance
The foundation comes in a simple 1-ounce glass bottle with a blue screw cap (though packaging may vary according to the product description). Right away, I noticed the compact size – perfect for travel and everyday makeup bags. The bottle feels substantial in your hand, unlike some flimsier drugstore options.
One thing to note: some customers have reported receiving packages where the bottles looked different from official COVERGIRL products, so ALWAYS check that you’re getting the real deal. The authentic product should have consistent branding and a blue cap that matches what you’d find in stores.
TEXTURE & FORMULA: Surprisingly Good for the Price!
When I first pumped this foundation onto my hand, I was actually shocked by how creamy it is! The consistency is thicker than I expected for a “clean” foundation but still spreads easily. It’s definitely more liquid than mousse, but not runny or watery like some cheaper foundations can be.
The scent is light and clean – nothing overwhelming or artificial. If you’re sensitive to fragrances in makeup, this one shouldn’t bother you at all. It has that classic “makeup” smell but very subtle.
APPLICATION: Blends Like a Dream!
This is where the COVERGIRL Clean foundation REALLY shines! I’ve tried applying it with:
- Fingers (great for light coverage)
- Beauty blender (my favorite method – gives the most natural finish)
- Foundation brush (works well for fuller coverage)
No matter which tool I used, the foundation blended EFFORTLESSLY into my skin. It doesn’t streak or leave obvious lines of demarcation. The formula feels almost lotion-like when you’re blending it in, which makes it super easy to work with even if you’re not a makeup expert.
One reviewer mentioned: “Product arrived on time, in original packaging. I love how easy this foundation blends in, it doesn’t feel goopy or heavy, great coverage and clean scent!” – and I couldn’t agree more!
COVERAGE & FINISH: Medium But Buildable
Let’s talk coverage – this isn’t going to completely mask severe acne or very dark spots, but it does a surprisingly good job at evening out skin tone and covering minor imperfections. I’d call it a solid medium coverage that you can build up in layers if needed.
The finish is what I’d describe as “natural” – not completely matte, but definitely not dewy either. It leaves my skin looking fresh and healthy without emphasizing pores or fine lines. My face doesn’t look flat and mask-like, which is a common problem with some drugstore foundations.
Several reviewers commented on how it provides “great coverage” while still feeling lightweight, and that’s exactly my experience as well!
COLOR MATCH: Tawny 165 Works for Medium Skin Tones
The Tawny 165 shade is described as being for medium skin tones with neutral to warm undertones. On my skin (which has slight yellow undertones), it’s a pretty good match. It oxidizes VERY slightly after application but not enough to be a deal-breaker.
However, I should note that some reviewers have mentioned issues with undertones, with one saying: “I’ve been using this brand and color for over a decade and pretty much know what to expect with consistency and color. What I received in the mail is NOT the shade I ordered. The foundation I received looks ashy and grey. The original color has yellow undertones.”
If you’ve used this shade before and suddenly it looks different, you might want to double-check you’re getting an authentic product from a reliable seller.
WEAR TIME & COMFORT: Lasts All Day!
For a drugstore foundation, I’m IMPRESSED with how well this wears throughout the day! On my normal-to-combination skin, it stays put for a good 8-9 hours before I notice any significant fading or patchiness. It does get a little shiny in my T-zone after about 6 hours, but a quick blot takes care of that.
The best part? It feels SO comfortable on the skin – almost like I’m not wearing foundation at all. One reviewer described it perfectly: “Smooth soft and easy, feels like lotion.” It doesn’t feel heavy or cakey, even when built up for more coverage.
Another reviewer mentioned: “Very light and refreshing on my face” – which sums up the comfort factor nicely!
POTENTIAL CONCERNS: Quality Control & Authenticity
I need to address some concerning issues that came up in multiple reviews. Several customers reported:
- Receiving products that appeared to be counterfeit
- Finding “old disgusting GUNK around the bottles and in the cap”
- Experiencing skin irritation and itching
- Being promised a two-pack but only receiving one bottle
While I personally didn’t experience these issues, they appeared often enough in reviews that they’re worth mentioning. If you’re ordering online, make sure you’re buying from a reputable seller and check the product carefully when it arrives.
One reviewer warned: “I was a little skeptical about ordering us and I should have followed my first instinct. This is not real CoverGirl makeup. I have two different bottles here, the one with the blue cap is the real Cover Girl makeup…I was going to return it to get my money back but I just threw it in the garbage. My face started itching when I wore this makeup. That never happened before.”
YIKES! Safety first, people!
VALUE FOR MONEY: Affordable Quality
At its price point (usually under $10), this foundation delivers EXCEPTIONAL value. You’re getting a reliable, easy-to-use product that performs comparably to foundations that cost 3-4 times as much.
The 1 oz size is standard, and with daily use, I estimate it will last about 2-3 months, making it an extremely budget-friendly option for everyday wear.
WHO SHOULD BUY THIS FOUNDATION?
This foundation is PERFECT for:
- Makeup beginners looking for something foolproof
- Anyone on a budget who doesn’t want to sacrifice quality
- People with normal to slightly dry or slightly oily skin
- Those who prefer natural-looking, medium coverage
- Busy folks who need quick, easy application
It might NOT be the best choice for:
- Very oily skin types (it’s not oil-controlling enough)
- Those who need full, heavy coverage
- People with extremely sensitive skin (given some of the reaction reports)
- Those looking for a very dewy, glowy finish
FINAL VERDICT: A Solid 4/5 Stars!
After weeks of testing, I’m giving the COVERGIRL Clean Makeup Foundation in Tawny 165 a strong 4 out of 5 stars. It lost a point due to the concerns about potential counterfeit products in the marketplace and some consistency issues with color matching.
PROS:
- Blends effortlessly
- Comfortable, lightweight feel
- Good medium coverage
- Natural, skin-like finish
- Excellent value for money
- Easy to find and purchase
- Doesn’t irritate most skin types
CONS:
- Some quality control/authenticity concerns when purchased online
- Limited shade range compared to newer foundation lines
- Not ideal for very oily skin
- Packaging is functional but not luxurious
Would I repurchase? ABSOLUTELY! This has earned a permanent spot in my everyday makeup rotation. For those days when I want good coverage without the fuss (and without breaking the bank), this is my go-to foundation.
Have you tried the COVERGIRL Clean Makeup Foundation? I’d love to hear your experiences with it too!
TIPS FOR BEST RESULTS
To get the most out of this foundation, I recommend:
- Apply to well-moisturized skin for the smoothest finish
- Use a damp beauty sponge for the most natural look
- Set with a light dusting of translucent powder if you’re oily
- Build in thin layers rather than applying one thick coat
- Purchase from a reliable retailer to avoid counterfeit products
Happy makeup-ing! 💄✨
Buy on Amazon: Here
