If you had told me a month ago that I’d be absolutely head-over-heels in love with a new foundation, I’d tell you that you were totally insane. Nothing could compare to my beloved Revlon ColorStay, could it?
What was an even bigger surprise is that the foundation comes from none other than Bare Minerals. I haven’t given the brand much thought since I tried (and hated) the loose powder foundation, mostly because I’m a messy bessy who spills everything everywhere. Loose powder & I are not a good combination, but fortunately, I don’t have to worry about that with BareSkin. The launch of their latest (and first) liquid foundation is kind of a big deal because they haven’t released a new foundation since 2012. In 20 years, they have only launched 2 other foundation products. Given the number of foundations that I’ve purchased this year alone, that’s pretty crazy!
At first touch, BareSkin ($29) might feel like any other serum foundation. It feels very similar to L’Oreal’s Magic Nude (now discontinued) and the Josie Maran Matchmaker Serum Foundation, and like these formulas, it also doesn’t contain any water. They’ve created a solution that relies on coconut derivatives to suspend jojoba coated pigments but skipped oil, fragrance, and parabens. BareMinerals is also marketing it as a brightening serum + foundation in one, however, the biggest difference I’ve found is that Bare Skin actually “dries down” on your skin.
I’ve started setting it with BareMinerals’ Mineral Veil, in part due to the SPF 25 protection, but also due to my renewed interest in the brand. The two work together in perfect harmony, combining together for coverage that still looks like skin. Every time I wear this combo, I receive compliments, which is the barometer by which I measure all new products.
Speaking of application, a lot of fuss is being made over the brush ($28), and with good reason. It is specially designed to work with the lightweight texture, with a well nested inside densely packed bristles to prevent the foundation from sinking down into the ferrule. The team recommends starting with one drop, and while I tried to rebel, I’ve realized that they were right. It only takes two drops to cover my entire face. Other directions from the team were to shake the bottle well, even in between drops. Because the formula doesn’t contain water, it is very easy for the pigments to settle.
Where to buy: Sephora | BareMinerals | Ulta
