Hey there! So I’ve been using COVERGIRL & Olay Simply Ageless Instant Wrinkle-Defying Foundation in Buff Beige for quite some time now, and I wanted to share my honest thoughts about this popular drugstore foundation that claims to defy wrinkles and provide ageless coverage. Let’s get into what works and what doesn’t!
FIRST IMPRESSIONS
When I first got my hands on this foundation, I was immediately curious about the unique packaging. Unlike traditional liquid foundations that come in bottles or tubes, this one comes in a round compact with a screw-top design. Inside, you’ll notice the foundation has a unique swirl pattern with white (the Olay component) mixed in with the pigmented foundation.
The foundation comes with a separate sponge applicator stored in a flip-top compartment, which seemed like a nice touch for on-the-go application. However, I quickly realized the packaging has some MAJOR flaws (more on that later).
APPLICATION & TEXTURE
Let’s talk about how this goes on your skin because that’s where this foundation really shines! The texture is creamy and smooth – NOT watery like many liquid foundations. It feels almost like a whipped cream consistency that glides across your skin without catching on dry patches.
Using the included sponge (when it’s actually included – some people reported missing applicators!), you only need a little product. In fact, I learned through trial and error that LESS IS DEFINITELY MORE with this foundation. When I first tried it, I used way too much and it actually emphasized my fine lines rather than minimizing them. Rookie mistake!
After figuring out the right amount, application became a breeze. The foundation blends easily and creates an even canvas without much effort. Some reviewers mentioned switching to a foundation brush or beauty blender instead of the included sponge for better results, which I’ve tried and agree works well!
COVERAGE & FINISH
The coverage is what I’d call a solid medium – you can build it up in areas where you need more coverage (like over redness or dark spots) without it looking cakey. What impressed me most is how it covers imperfections while still looking natural!
The finish is not fully matte nor is it dewy – it falls somewhere in between with what I’d call a “natural satin” finish. However, several reviewers (including myself) noticed that it can leave your skin looking a bit shiny after a few hours, especially if you have combination or oily skin. Setting with a light powder helps control this throughout the day.
STAYING POWER
For a drugstore foundation, the staying power is impressive! It lasts through a standard 8-hour workday without significant fading or patchiness. I don’t typically need to touch up except maybe a quick powder in my T-zone if I’m heading out after work.
The foundation doesn’t transfer easily onto clothes or phones, which is a huge plus in my book. Even in warmer weather, it stays put reasonably well without sliding off.
SKINCARE BENEFITS & SPF
One of the biggest selling points of this foundation is the inclusion of Olay skincare ingredients. The foundation contains Olay Regenerist Serum and SPF 28 protection, making it a multi-tasking product that provides coverage while treating your skin.
After consistent use, several reviewers (myself included) noticed improvements in skin texture and hydration. The foundation doesn’t dry out your skin throughout the day – instead, it maintains moisture levels, which is AMAZING for those with normal to dry skin types.
The SPF 28 is a nice bonus for everyday sun protection, though I still recommend using a separate sunscreen for maximum protection.
THE WRINKLE-DEFYING CLAIMS
Does it actually defy wrinkles as the name suggests? Well, yes and no.
The foundation definitely has a “floating” effect that doesn’t settle into fine lines and wrinkles the way many foundations do. It creates a smooth canvas that minimizes the appearance of wrinkles while you’re wearing it.
As for long-term benefits, after about a month of regular use, I did notice subtle improvements in my skin’s texture and hydration levels, likely due to the Olay ingredients. However, don’t expect miracle anti-aging results – it’s still primarily a foundation with added skincare benefits.
SHADE SELECTION & COLOR MATCH
Finding the right shade can be TRICKY. Multiple reviewers mentioned that the colors tend to run lighter than expected. The Buff Beige shade that I’m reviewing seems to work well for light to medium skin tones with neutral undertones, but many users recommended going one shade darker than you think you need.
The white swirl in the formula seems to lighten the overall appearance once applied, which is something to keep in mind when selecting your shade. Several reviewers with fair skin with pink undertones also mentioned difficulty finding their perfect match, as most shades lean toward yellow/beige undertones.
THE PACKAGING NIGHTMARE
Now for the BIGGEST downside – the packaging. The compact design with the screw-top lid is incredibly frustrating to use. Here’s the process: flip open the top compartment, take out the sponge, close that compartment, flip to the other side, unscrew the foundation lid (which many people said they drop frequently), apply makeup, then reverse the whole process to put it away. WHEW! That’s a lot of steps!
Several reviewers mentioned extreme difficulty opening the container, with some needing help from others to unscrew the lid. For those with arthritis or hand strength issues, this packaging is particularly problematic.
Many users also reported receiving broken or damaged product despite intact outer packaging, suggesting the formula might be fragile during shipping.
WHO IS THIS FOUNDATION BEST FOR?
Based on the collective experiences, this foundation works exceptionally well for:
- Mature skin (many reviewers in their 50s, 60s, 70s, and even 80s loved it!)
- Normal to dry skin types
- Those looking for medium, buildable coverage
- People who want skincare benefits from their foundation
- Anyone seeking a natural-looking finish that doesn’t settle into lines
It might NOT be ideal for:
- Very oily skin types (the moisturizing formula might look too dewy)
- Those who prefer full coverage
- People who want a truly matte finish
- Anyone with hand strength issues who might struggle with the packaging
- Those who need a quick, on-the-go application (the packaging makes this cumbersome)
VALUE FOR MONEY
At around $11-16 depending on where you purchase it, the price point falls in the mid-range for drugstore foundations. Many reviewers compared it favorably to high-end foundations costing 3-4 times as much, which makes this an excellent value.
However, some noted that you go through the product fairly quickly compared to liquid foundations, which might offset the initial cost savings. That said, most still felt it was worth the price for the performance.
THE VERDICT
After weighing all the pros and cons, I believe COVERGIRL & Olay Simply Ageless Foundation deserves 4 out of 5 stars. It delivers excellent performance, especially for mature skin, with its smoothing effect and skincare benefits. The coverage is natural yet effective, and the staying power is impressive for a drugstore foundation.
The one-star deduction comes primarily from the frustrating packaging design and the somewhat limited shade range. If COVERGIRL would redesign the compact (maybe with a flip-top or pump dispenser) and expand their shade offerings, this could easily be a 5-star product!
TIPS FOR GETTING THE MOST OUT OF THIS FOUNDATION
Based on reviewer experiences, here are some helpful tips:
- Use VERY LITTLE product – a light touch works best
- Consider applying with a foundation brush or beauty blender instead of the included sponge
- Set with a light dusting of powder if you tend to get shiny
- Purchase one shade darker than you think you need
- Clean the applicator sponge regularly with soap and warm water to prevent breakouts
- For extra coverage on problem areas, apply a thin layer, let it set slightly, then add a bit more
- If the product starts to dry out, adding a drop of facial oil or moisturizer can revive it
FINAL THOUGHTS
Despite its flaws, this foundation has earned a permanent place in my makeup routine. The way it makes my skin look – smooth, even-toned, and natural – outweighs the annoyance of the packaging. For anyone with mature skin looking for an affordable foundation that actually works WITH your skin instead of against it, COVERGIRL & Olay Simply Ageless is definitely worth trying!
Just remember: less is more, go a shade darker, and be prepared to fight with that screw top!
Have you tried this foundation? I’d love to hear YOUR experience with it and whether you found the same pros and cons that I did!
Buy on Amazon: Here
