After collecting and analyzing dozens of real user reviews about COVERGIRL’s Clean Simply Powder Foundation in Classic Ivory, I’m excited to share my comprehensive take on this beloved drugstore staple. As someone who’s spent years in the beauty industry, I’ve seen products come and go, but this one has remarkable staying power for good reason.
First Impressions & Packaging
The COVERGIRL Clean Simply Powder Foundation comes in a classic compact design – nothing fancy, just practical. It includes the standard mirror and application sponge, making it perfect for on-the-go touch-ups. The compact is lightweight and slim enough to slip into any purse or makeup bag.
Unfortunately, there seems to be a recurring issue with shipping and handling. Many reviewers mentioned receiving broken compacts, with the powder cracked or crumbled inside the packaging. This appears to be more of a shipping problem than a product issue, but it’s definitely something to be aware of when ordering online. If possible, you might want to purchase this in-store to avoid disappointment.
Shade Selection & Color Match
The Classic Ivory shade is designed for fair to light skin tones. Most reviewers with lighter complexions found this to be a good match, though some noted it can appear slightly darker once applied to the skin. It tends to have a subtle neutral to slightly cool undertone, which works well for many fair-skinned individuals.
If you’re extremely fair, you might find this a touch too dark, even though it’s one of the lighter options in the range. On the flip side, if you have medium skin that tans in summer, this could work as your winter shade but you’d likely need to go a shade or two darker for summer months.
Coverage & Finish
Here’s where this product really shines – it offers surprisingly good coverage for a pressed powder foundation. While it won’t completely mask severe acne or significant discoloration, it does an excellent job at evening out skin tone, reducing redness, and minimizing the appearance of minor blemishes.
The finish is what many reviewers absolutely LOVE about this product. It has a natural, semi-matte finish that doesn’t look powdery or cakey. It manages to control shine without making skin look flat or dry. After application, it seems to “melt” into the skin for a natural look that doesn’t scream “I’m wearing foundation!”
One reviewer in their 50s mentioned being told they looked like they had a Snapchat filter on in real life, which is pretty much the ultimate compliment for any foundation!
Application & Texture
The powder has a silky smooth texture that picks up easily on brushes, sponges, or the included applicator. While the included sponge works fine for quick touch-ups, many long-term users recommend:
- Using a fluffy powder brush for light, everyday coverage
- Using a denser foundation brush for medium coverage
- Applying with a damp makeup sponge for a more seamless finish (one reviewer specifically mentioned wetting the sponge for best results)
The product seems to be quite versatile in application methods. It can be used:
- Alone as a one-step foundation
- Over a liquid foundation as a setting powder
- Specifically over trouble spots after applying concealer for a natural look
- With a primer underneath for longer wear
Longevity & Wear
For a drugstore powder foundation, the longevity is impressive but not miraculous. Most reviewers report 4-5 hours of good wear before needing a touch-up, which is pretty standard for this type of product. Those with oily skin typically need to blot and reapply by midday, while those with normal to dry skin might get through a full workday with minimal touch-ups.
The good news is that when it does need to be refreshed, it layers well without getting cakey or patchy. You can simply blot away any oil and reapply where needed without having to completely redo your makeup.
Several reviewers mentioned that using a good primer underneath significantly extends the wear time – a tip worth trying if you find yourself needing frequent touch-ups.
Skin Compatibility
This foundation seems to be remarkably well-tolerated across different skin types, which is unusual for a one-size-fits-all product:
For Oily Skin
Many reviewers with oily skin love how this powder helps control shine without looking heavy. It doesn’t completely eliminate oil breakthrough, but it does significantly reduce it compared to many other foundations.
For Combination Skin
This seems to be the ideal skin type for this product. It mattifies oily areas while not clinging to dry patches.
For Dry Skin
Surprisingly, many reviewers with dry or mature skin also enjoy this product, though they typically mention using a good moisturizer underneath. It doesn’t seem to emphasize dry patches or settle into fine lines the way many powder products can.
For Sensitive Skin
Multiple reviewers with sensitive skin, rosacea, and even acne-prone skin reported no irritation or breakouts from this product. One reviewer in their 50s mentioned using it for over 20 years with no issues.
Value for Money
At around $6-8 per compact (depending on where you purchase), this product offers exceptional value. Many reviewers mentioned using high-end brands costing 4-5 times as much and coming back to this COVERGIRL option because it performs just as well or better.
The amount of product in the compact is sufficient, though some reviewers felt the pan could be deeper for the price. With daily use, most people report a compact lasting about 1-2 months before needing replacement.
Environmental Considerations
One thoughtful reviewer raised concerns about the plastic packaging waste. Since the powder itself comes in a non-recyclable plastic compact, there’s no way to refill it once empty. This is increasingly becoming an issue for environmentally conscious consumers, and it would be great to see COVERGIRL adopt a more sustainable approach with refillable options in the future.
Comparisons to Other Products
Multiple reviewers mentioned trying high-end alternatives from brands like MAC, Clinique, and other department store brands, only to return to this COVERGIRL standby. For the price point, it seems to outperform many more expensive options.
Several reviewers also noted that they had previously used liquid foundations but preferred this powder option for its lightweight feel and natural finish. This makes it an excellent option for those who dislike the sensation of traditional liquid foundation.
Who Should Buy This Product
This foundation would be ideal for:
- Those seeking a natural, everyday foundation that doesn’t look or feel heavy
- People with sensitive skin who react to many liquid foundations
- Anyone looking for a quick, one-step foundation routine
- Those on a budget who don’t want to sacrifice quality
- People who prefer a semi-matte finish that isn’t completely flat
- Anyone who wants a versatile product that can be used multiple ways
Who Should Skip This Product
This might not be the best choice for:
- Those with severe acne or significant discoloration needing full coverage
- Extremely oily skin types needing all-day oil control without touch-ups
- Very dry skin that needs the extra hydration liquid foundations typically provide
- Those seeking a dewy, luminous finish
Final Thoughts
COVERGIRL’s Clean Simply Powder Foundation has earned its reputation as a reliable, high-performing drugstore staple. With numerous reviewers mentioning they’ve used it for 10, 15, or even 20+ years, it clearly delivers consistent quality that keeps customers coming back decade after decade.
For a product at this price point to inspire such loyalty speaks volumes about its performance. While it won’t replace high-coverage liquid foundations for those needing significant color correction, it excels as an everyday, fuss-free option that looks natural while still providing meaningful coverage.
The biggest concern seems to be the shipping issues resulting in broken products, so purchasing in-store might be the safer option. Additionally, the environmental impact of non-refillable packaging is worth considering.
Overall, this product earns its place as a makeup bag essential for anyone seeking affordable, reliable coverage with a natural finish. As one reviewer put it, they’ll use this “until they stop making it or I die, whichever comes first” – and that kind of dedication to a beauty product is pretty rare indeed!
Buy on Amazon: Here
