Covergirl CG Smoothers AquaSmooth Compact Foundation Review!

Covergirl CG Smoothers AquaSmooth Compact Foundation

PRODUCT DESCRIPTION: Designed with AquaCurrent Science, this vitamin-enriched formula directs moisture to your skin's surface to improve its condition over time, while giving smooth, even coverage that makes imperfections virtually vanish before your eyes. This solid makeup transforms into a liquid during application, then dries to an even, powder-light finish.

-Oil-Free and Noncomedogenic (won't clog pores)
-SPF 15 UVA/UVB Sunscreen
-Vitamins B3, B5, and E

There are fifteen (15) shades in total, and considering the compact is packaged closed (yes, the compact is shut and is packaged in plastic so you can't see the color), you'd pretty much have to play the guessing game when picking a shade at the store. The shades are as follows: Ivory 705, Classic Ivory 710, Natural Ivory 715, Creamy Natural 720, Buff Beige 725, Classic Beige 730, Medium Light 735, Natural Beige 740, Warm Beige 745, Creamy Beige 750, Soft Honey 755, Classic Tan 760, Tawny 765, Toasted Almond 770 and Soft Sable 775. Unfortunately, if you have very fair skin or deep-dark skin, there may not be a match for you. The main factor that brings down the rating of this foundation is the shade selection. There aren't enough golden/yellow shades, and many of the shades are too neutral (gray) or too pink. I was lucky to find a match for my non-tanned skin; Classic Ivory, which is a good MAC NC20 color match. It's also said to match NW20. From reviews, I've read that Buff Beige is good for NC25.

Classic Ivory

The consistency is a cream, that is thin and slippery to the touch. When applied to the skin, it has a velvety (silica), powder finish. Despite it being a cream, it is in no way thick or heavy. The compact includes a sponge, but I don't find the sponge yields flattering results. I prefer using a synthetic, flat top foundation brush, such as a Sigma F80 or Duo-Fiber Brush and applying it to my face in circular, buffing motions. In areas where I want a little extra coverage, I'll go back and apply a second layer, only to those areas, with short patting motions (as opposed to "sweeping") to really build the coverage. It's a very buildable foundation, so depending on how much you use, it can go from light to a heavier medium coverage. I wouldn't say it reaches "full" coverage, but a good medium.

The finish is a semi-matte, satin finish. It's very necessary to set with a powder, as cream formulas tend to transfer the easiest. I'll usually set with a setting powder such as Guerlain Meteorites or MAC Careblend Powder, but if I know it's going to be a long day, I'll dust my face with a powder foundation such as MAC Studio Fix Powder or Chanel Double Perfection Compact. It leaves my skin looking flawless.

The lasting power isn't the greatest. It's definitely not long lasting, and could use a couple of touch ups throughout the day. By hour 6, it has faded around my mouth and the tip of my nose, but is easily fixed with a quick sweep of my foundation brush and setting powder.

Left: Swatched on hand, Right: Blended

Too dull? Try dampening your brush before application to create a less, matte finish. Or, lightly mist your face with water before application.

 Here's a quick photo of me wearing the foundation a few hours after it was applied.

PROS: Good, buildable coverage, blends very well without caking, doesn't accentuate dryness, convenient for quick application.
CONS: Limited color selection - limited tones for yellow/warm skin, very light and deep skin tones. From what I've read, many shades lean pink and/or orange. Also, the lasting power isn't the greatest. It isn't by any means a "long-lasting" foundation. Those with oily skin, may find it transfers/moved around easily.
PACKAGING: I have no complaints with the packaging. It's a (somewhat clunky) long, narrow compact, that is lightweight and carries a sponge applicator and mirror. Although the sponge isn't the best for application, it's useful for touch-ups.
OVERALL: I think it's a great foundation for those who apply their makeup on the go, as it's incredibly convenient. Because it blends so well, it's beneficial for those who aren't very experienced with applying makeup. It's also good for those that want good coverage for a lower price. Dry, Normal/Combination skin types will benefit the best from this foundation, as I find the texture too slippery for those with Oily skin.

The price differs from each retailer, but the average price is around $8. The product contains .4 oz/12g as opposed to MAC Studio Tech (Creme Compact) that retails for $29.50 at 0.35 oz/10 g of product. Value-wise, you will most likely get the most bang for your buck with a liquid foundation, that are typically 1 oz of product for the same price. I always find that I run out of creme foundations much quicker, even though creme foundations tend to pack more coverage (so you won't have to use as much). I already have a big dent in my Aquasmooth compact, so I'm sure I'll have to replace it soon with continued use.