My first hunt is foundation. I currently use MAC Mineralize Foundation w/SPF 15. MAC's description: A rich, luxurious compact foundation offering a creamy application for a flawless, medium-buildable, naturally revitalized, fully dimensional finish. Lightweight and silky to apply. Good for all skin types; particularly benefits dull and/or dry complexions. Provides super-hydrated, high-comfort wear and everyday SPF 15 sun protection. Yep, that pretty much covers it. This is a cream to powder foundation in a compact. It comes with a sponge applicator. The price tag is $32.50 for 0.35 oz. One compact lasted me 12 weeks of almost daily wear.
Cheap Alternative - Drugstore Find:
I was worried about finding a cream to powder foundation at the drugstore. I did some initial searching and was feeling defeated. Then my Mom (thanks Mom!) alerted me to CoverGirl and Olay's Simply Ageless Foundation w/SPF 22. CoverGirl's description: This breakthrough formula with Olay Regenerist Serum and SPF 22 stays suspended over fine lines and wrinkles, unlike the leading anti-aging department store foundation that can gather in wrinkles and make skin look older. Clinically shown to provide significant improvement in skin condition in just four weeks. Plus, we're so sure you'll love Simply Ageless Foundation, that if you're not satisfied with the results, we'll refund your money. Wow, I didn't know until now that they put a guarantee on it!
I was worried about finding a cream to powder foundation at the drugstore. I did some initial searching and was feeling defeated. Then my Mom (thanks Mom!) alerted me to CoverGirl and Olay's Simply Ageless Foundation w/SPF 22. CoverGirl's description: This breakthrough formula with Olay Regenerist Serum and SPF 22 stays suspended over fine lines and wrinkles, unlike the leading anti-aging department store foundation that can gather in wrinkles and make skin look older. Clinically shown to provide significant improvement in skin condition in just four weeks. Plus, we're so sure you'll love Simply Ageless Foundation, that if you're not satisfied with the results, we'll refund your money. Wow, I didn't know until now that they put a guarantee on it!
(Side-note: You can return most open beauty items back to your local drugstore/general store, etc. Just tell them you didn't like it or it didn't work. Most stores (even grocery stores) will let you return almost anything, even if you've opened it.)
How did it stack up?
Well, after one use, I have to say I'm impressed CoverGirl! This foundation has nice pigment, good coverage and a light feel. I would describe the coverage as light-medium, buildable coverage. It comes with a sponge applicator, but it's not very nice - thin and small and feels like it will crumble at any moment, so I would suggest buying a new sponge. You can get a pack of two at MAC for $6 or for less at your local drugstore/general store. I'm not a fan of the packaging. You have to unscrew the foundation from the base, where the sponge is located inside a flip top. Eh, couldn't they make it one piece? It's slightly annoying. Anyway, let's talk price. I paid $16.99 at Walgreens for 0.4 oz. It appears I got ripped off - get it at Ulta for $14.99 or Target has it on sale for $12.09. Now, finding my shade was somewhat difficult as well, but if you go to CoverGirl's website, they have a tool to match your department store shade. Just choose the brand and type of product, etc... I'm not sure if this actually works, they didn't have the MAC foundation I use, but the idea is nice! I got lucky and managed to find my shade in the store, despite not having all options available, as some shades were sold out. I'm curious to see how many wears I can get out of CoverGirl's foundation. We'll have to wait and see.
Update: I used my MAC foundation the day after trying CoverGirl's. I have to say it, I actually prefer the CoverGirl foundation. I've been converted on this one.
