BareMinerals Versus Sheer Cover

Mineral foundations offer the coverage of a liquid with the feel of a powder. Weightless and non-comedogenic, they are suitable for all skin types and are especially good for those with acne-prone or oily skin. Their simple ingredients provide natural SPF 15 protection and do not irritate skin or clog pores. Furthermore, the glow and softness they impart is far more natural than any liquid, cream, or regular powder foundation.

Bare Esentuals' bareMinerals and Guthy-Renker's Sheer Cover mineral foundations though similar in appearance, have subtle differences that make one line preferable over the other. In this case, the convenience factor played a large part in determining the winner.

Both products give great coverage and have minimal ingredients. For those looking for the purest product, bareMinerals foundation holds an edge because of its simple ingredients. However, those looking for convenience will appreciate Sheer Cover's incorporation of finishing powder into the foundation.

The texture of the foundations is similar as well with both bareMinerals and Sheer Cover having a finely ground texture. The foundations feel weightless on the skin and impart a soft diffused glow while covering skin imperfections such as uneven color and large pores. Compared to other foundations, only a small amount is needed. However, in order to get adequate coverage with Sheer Cover slightly more product is needed because of the finishing powder.

Although the coverage with bareMinerals was marginally better, the color was not. As someone with golden undertones and a medium complexion, the color was either too dark, too rosy, or too light among the three shades I had within my color range. I had more luck with Sheer Cover in finding a shade that matched my complexion. I did not even have to mix shades, something that I would have to do in order to get the bareMinerals foundation to match my skin tone. Although this is a good option for some, I find the added convenience of not having to mix the foundations and juggle two pots of foundation worth the extra effort of exploring the offerings of both lines

If using bareMinerals, the next step would be the application of their finishing powder called Mineral Veil. Although Mineral Veil is translucent for most skin tones, those with darker skin might find the finishing powder unsuitable and may prefer Sheer Cover's tinted finishing powder which is incorporated into the foundation so the look is flawless regardless of skin tone.

BareMinerals and Sheer Cover offer club programs which offer potential savings. With bareMinerals customers can have two mineral foundations and one Mineral Veil delivered every 60 days for two payments of $19.99 with an additional shipping charge of $5.99. The interval between shipments can be changed depending on preference. Sheer Cover club members have a more flexible option with their "Create-a-Kit" option. Members can pick and choose between Sheer Cover's catalog of foundations, concealers, eye and lip makeup, blushes, skin highlighters, and skincare treatments to create the perfect kit by selecting 4-10 items with most items priced at $14.95 each. Kits under 7 items have an additional shipping and handling charge of $9.99. Members also have the option of changing the interval between shipments with most choosing to receive a kit every 90 days with three monthly payments.

For me, Sheer Cover is the winner of this match. The ability to customize my kit and the convenience of perfectly matched color and integrated finishing powder makes Sheer Cover mineral foundation a quick and easy way to have a glowing complexion. However, those wanting extra coverage might find bareMinerals more to their liking especially if the shade offerings work with their skin tones.