I’ll preface this by saying I’m very picky about what foundation I use. Normally, I opt for a full- or medium-coverage option, but occasionally, I find a lighter formula that surprises me. This was the case with Covergirl’s viral new Skin Perfector Essence Foundation ($21). After discovering a few duds on TikTok, I was starting to give up on buying makeup I discovered on the platform completely. This foundation, however, is actually a winner. For my honest thoughts on it, keep scrolling! I’m sharing them below.

I won’t lie to you. I was a bit skeptical about this foundation at first. The formula is visible through the bottle when you pick it up, and the colored microdroplets are suspended in a clear base. It definitely made me say, “Hmm.” It also appears to separate slightly when you pump it out of the bottle, but don’t worry. I know this might sound alarming, but once I actually applied it to my skin, I really loved the finish. 

This foundation contains 0.5% bakuchiol, a plant-based retinol alternative that’s known to be safer for sensitive skin. Over time, it can help reduce the appearance of fine lines and wrinkles. Plus, it increases skin firmness. The formula is designed to be noncomedogenic, meaning it’s acne-safe for most and won’t clog up your pores. This is key for me since I have sensitive, acne-prone skin.

After applying a thin layer, I would say it blurs out imperfections and creates that filtered effect on the skin. You should know that this is more of a sheer-coverage foundation. Usually, I’m not a sheer-coverage girlie in the slightest—I like a buildable medium- or full-coverage foundation, period. If you struggle with acne and dark spots, I’m sure you get it. I was so surprised by how much I loved this. Although it is a bit sheer, you can build up coverage, and it creates a beautiful glow that gives a glass-skin effect.

If you’re someone who really likes skin tints that give you light coverage and offer a glow, I think you’ll love this. Full-coverage folks should also hear me out, though. I see you! I’m one of you! But give this foundation a chance. It looks beautiful on the skin, and I was pleasantly surprised by how much I loved it. It feels fresh and light on the skin and blurs out imperfections in a nice way. If you have dark spots like me, you’ll probably need to build it up a bit more before achieving your desired level of coverage, but I’ll definitely continue to use this one. The price tag also isn’t too bad at just $21!

This is a great everyday mascara that provides a nice lash lift without getting clumpy or looking too over-the-top. 

I love the warm, rich tones in this palette. Some might say it’s best suited for fall, but I’d wear these shades year-round since they’re so pigmented and really stand out on Black and Brown skin tones.

This foundation applies exactly how it sounds—incredibly fresh and dewy. It contains super hydrators like coconut milk and aloe extract to keep skin moisturized throughout the day and provides a nice glow.

If you have dry or dehydrated skin, this primer is a must. It creates a hydrating, silky base for makeup and even contains a few skin-firming peptides to fight the signs of aging on the skin.

Fluffy brows are having a moment, and this brow gel is key to achieving the look. TBH, I don’t always fluff mine, but this brow gel really helps lock my brows into place after using a pencil to fill them in.

This oil-free moisturizer provides great water-based hydration and works so well for acne-prone or oily skin. A hefty dose of hyaluronic acid and cactus water keeps skin moisturized for up to 72 hours.

I’m big on the gloss and think it never hurts to have a few good drugstore options handy. This one from the Clean Fresh collection fits the bill. 

Sometimes, it’s hard for me to believe this blush is only $5. I tend to go for cream formulas, but this is one of the few powder blushes I actually like. It blends nicely with a brush and looks natural on the skin.