Okay, so I’ve been using this COVERGIRL Clean Simply Powder Foundation in Natural Ivory for YEARS now, and I figured it was about time I shared my thoughts with you all! This little compact has been a staple in my makeup bag for so long that I practically consider it an old friend. 😂
First Impressions & Packaging
Let’s talk about what you get right out of the package. This powder foundation comes in a simple dual compact with the foundation on top and a little compartment underneath for the sponge applicator. I’ll be honest – the packaging isn’t anything fancy. It’s practical, lightweight, and perfect for tossing in your purse, but some people might find it a bit tricky to open at first.
One thing I’ve noticed is that the powder can sometimes get a little loose in the compact, especially if you’re rough with your makeup bag (guilty as charged!). A few reviewers mentioned receiving their product broken or shattered during shipping, which is definitely a bummer. But when it arrives intact, you get a decent amount of product (0.41 oz) that lasts quite a while!
The Color Situation
Let’s talk about the Natural Ivory shade. This is where things get interesting! In the compact, Natural Ivory might look a bit darker and more beige than you’d expect from something called “ivory.” Several reviewers mentioned being surprised by how dark it appeared in the pan.
BUT – and this is a big but – don’t judge this powder by how it looks in the compact! Once applied, it definitely goes on lighter and more natural looking. The powder has a slightly warm undertone that works well for many light skin tones, though it leans a bit more on the beige/neutral side rather than being super pale or yellow-toned.
If you’re VERY fair-skinned, you might want to check out an even lighter shade. But for most light-to-medium skin tones, Natural Ivory should work pretty well as a decent match.
Application & Coverage
This is where this powder foundation really SHINES (or rather, doesn’t shine – in a good way!). The coverage is definitely on the light-to-medium side. Don’t expect this to cover major blemishes or discoloration – it’s just not that kind of product.
What it DOES do is even out your skin tone beautifully and control oil and shine throughout the day. It has this amazing ability to blur imperfections and fine lines without lo
oking cakey or settling into creases.
You can apply it a few different ways:
- Use it alone over moisturizer for a natural, light coverage look
- Apply it over liquid foundation as a setting powder for more coverage
- Keep it in your purse for quick touch-ups throughout the day
I personally love using a fluffy brush rather than the included sponge applicator. The sponge gives more coverage but can sometimes make the application look a bit heavy. A brush gives this gorgeous, natural finish that looks like your skin but better!
How It Wears Throughout the Day
For a drugstore powder, I’ve gotta say – the staying power is pretty impressive! On my combination skin, it lasts about 6-8 hours before I might need a touch-up. If you’re super oily, you’ll probably need to blot and reapply midday.
What I LOVE about this powder is that it doesn’t oxidize much throughout the day. You know how some foundations start out looking great but turn orange after a few hours? Not an issue here!
It’s also really buildable without looking cakey. I can add more throughout the day without feeling like I’m wearing a mask, which is HUGE for me.
Skin Benefits & Feel
This powder feels incredibly lightweight on the skin. Seriously, it’s one of those products where you might check your mirror midday and think “Do I even have makeup on?” – but in the best possible way!
The formula is non-comedogenic, so it won’t clog your pores. I haven’t had any breakout issues with it, even when I’m sweating at the gym or rushing around town all day.
One thing to note – if you have very dry skin, you’ll definitely want to moisturize well before applying. Like most powder foundations, it can cling to dry patches if your skin isn’t prepped properly.
Price Point & Value
Let’s talk MONEY! One of the best things about this powder foundation is the price. It’s significantly cheaper than high-end options like MAC or Chanel, but in my opinion, it performs just as well for everyday wear.
Several reviewers mentioned that they’ve tried expensive brands but keep coming back to this COVERGIRL option. When you can get comparable results for less than half the price, why wouldn’t you?
The compact typically lasts me about 3-4 months with regular use, which makes it an incredible value. You’re getting a lot of bang for your buck here!
How It Compares to Other Brands
I’ve tried LOTS of powder foundations over the years, from drugstore to high-end, and I keep coming back to this one. Here’s how it stacks up:
- Compared to MAC Studio Fix Powder Plus: Similar finish but less coverage and less expensive
- Compared to higher-end brands like Chanel: Less coverage but more natural looking for everyday wear
- Compared to other drugstore options: Better oil control and a more natural finish than many competitors
Several reviewers actually mentioned this is a great dupe for MAC powder foundation, which says a lot about its quality!
Who Should Try This Foundation
This powder is PERFECT for:
- People with normal to oily skin looking for light-medium coverage
- Makeup minimalists who want a quick, easy application
- Anyone who wants to set their liquid foundation with something that adds a bit more coverage
- Those on a budget who still want quality results
You might want to skip this if:
- You need full coverage for significant blemishes or discoloration
- You have very dry or flaky skin
- You prefer a dewy finish (this is definitely more of a natural matte)
The Little Things I Love
There are some small details about this product that make it special:
- The compact includes a mirror, making it perfect for on-the-go touch-ups
- It doesn’t have a strong fragrance, which is great for sensitive skin
- It feels lightweight but still provides enough coverage to make a difference
- It doesn’t flashback in photos (a huge plus!)
Long-Term Benefits & Loyalty
What really strikes me about the reviews is how many people have been using this product for YEARS – even DECADES. Some reviewers mentioned using it for 10+ years! That kind of loyalty speaks volumes about a product’s quality and consistency.
There were a couple mentions of the formula changing slightly over the years, but the core qualities that people love – the natural finish, the lightweight feel, and the reliable performance – have remained the same.
Final Thoughts
Here’s my bottom line on COVERGIRL Clean Simply Powder Foundation in Natural Ivory:
This isn’t a miracle product that’s going to give you flawless, airbrushed skin with one swipe. But it IS a reliable, affordable option that gives a natural, polished look with minimal effort.
For everyday wear, quick touch-ups, and creating a smooth canvas, it’s really hard to beat – especially at this price point! The Natural Ivory shade works well for light to medium skin tones with neutral to slightly warm undertones.
If you’re looking for a no-fuss powder foundation that delivers consistent results without breaking the bank, this COVERGIRL option deserves a spot in your makeup bag. Just be sure to check the color in natural lighting when it arrives – that compact color can be deceiving!
Have you tried this foundation? I’d love to hear your thoughts! And if you have questions about anything I didn’t cover, just let me know!
Rating: ⭐⭐⭐⭐½ (4.5/5 stars)
Buy on Amazon: Here
