Choosing the right foundation can feel overwhelming, especially when two popular options like Bare Minerals Original Foundation and BarePro Foundation are on the table. Both offer skin-loving benefits and clean formulas, but they cater to different needs. Whether you’re a makeup minimalist or a full-coverage enthusiast, this guide will help you decide which Bare Minerals foundation is right for you.
Understanding the Basics
Before comparing performance, let’s get familiar with the two formulas:
Bare Minerals Original Foundation
- Type: Loose powder
- Coverage: Sheer to buildable medium
- Finish: Natural, luminous
- SPF: 15
- Key Ingredients: Just 5 clean mineral ingredients
BarePro Performance Wear Foundation
- Type: Liquid (and also available in powder)
- Coverage: Medium to full
- Finish: Matte
- SPF: 20
- Key Ingredients: Mineral pigments, bamboo stem extract, papaya enzymes
Coverage and Finish: Glow vs. Matte
Bare Minerals Original:
Ideal for those who want a lightweight, natural look with a subtle glow. It evens out skin tone without looking or feeling heavy. You can layer it without it caking, making it perfect for “no-makeup” makeup days.
BarePro:
Designed for long-lasting wear with full coverage. It dries down to a natural matte finish, which is great for controlling shine and staying put through heat, humidity, or long hours.
Winner:
- Original for natural, breathable coverage
- BarePro for all-day, high-performance wear
Skin Type Suitability
Bare Minerals Original:
Best for normal, sensitive, or dry skin. It’s non-comedogenic and free of synthetic additives, making it a gentle choice for reactive or acne-prone skin.
BarePro:
Better suited for oily and combination skin due to its oil-absorbing and mattifying properties. It can work for dry skin too, but only with proper hydration and prep.
Winner:
- Original for sensitive and dry skin
- BarePro for oily and combo skin
Wear Time and Durability
Bare Minerals Original:
Stays comfortable throughout the day but may need a touch-up for longer wear or in humid conditions.
BarePro:
Built for endurance—up to 24 hours of wear. It’s sweat-resistant and transfer-proof, making it ideal for events or long workdays.
Winner:
- BarePro, hands down, for longevity and durability
Application and Convenience
Bare Minerals Original:
Best applied with a fluffy kabuki brush in circular motions. It may require a bit of practice to master the swirl-tap-buff method, but the payoff is a luminous, skin-like finish.
BarePro:
Applies easily with fingers, a brush, or a sponge. It’s quick to blend and more convenient for those used to liquid foundations.
Winner:
- BarePro for ease and modern application
- Original for powder lovers who prefer a classic approach
Ingredients and Skin Benefits
Bare Minerals Original:
Formulated with only 5 mineral ingredients, it’s one of the cleanest foundations available. It won’t clog pores and is a great option for those with ingredient sensitivities.
BarePro:
Still clean and dermatologist-tested, but includes additional ingredients for performance and skin-smoothing benefits. It also contains mineral SPF and skin-improving enzymes.
Winner:
- Original for purists and ultra-sensitive skin
- BarePro for skincare benefits and advanced performance
Final Verdict: Which One Should You Choose?
- Choose Bare Minerals Original Foundation if you:
- Prefer a lightweight, luminous finish
- Have sensitive or dry skin
- Want a minimalist, clean formula
- Are new to foundation or prefer a natural look
- Choose BarePro Foundation if you:
- Need long-lasting, matte coverage
- Have oily or combination skin
- Want full coverage for events or long days
- Prefer a liquid format with easy application
Both foundations are excellent in their own right—it just depends on your skin type, lifestyle, and makeup goals. If you’re still unsure, many users mix both in their routine: BarePro for events or long days, and Original for everyday, natural wear.