So what is the scoop on Mineral Make-up? Is it really natural? Does it come from the earth? Is it good for your skin? Are they all the same? Let's find out now... Mineral Make-up is becoming very popular now because of it's naturalness. Brands like Bare Minerals, Shaklee, Organic Wear, and Monave and hundreds more. You really have to look at the list of ingredients before you buy. Many ingredients listed will have more than just a few and that is not necessary for a great natural coverage. Some brands are more matte than others and some more shiny. You really have to find what you like. I found some brands to be kind of cakey and you could see the make-up sitting on my pores on my forehead. With any of these, you only need to use a little powder on your brush at a time, tap off the excess and buff in a swirling motion on your face. So what does natural really mean with this mineral make-up? Many cosmetic companies are coming up with their own line of mineral make-up now and most already had some of these ingredients in their products for decades. The main ingredients in mineral make-up is Titanium Dioxide, Zinc Oxide, Mica, Iron Oxide, and some contain Bismuth Oxychloride (a questionable ingredient). So yes these ingredients do come from the earth. It is probably best if the products you put on your face do not contain preservatives, oil, fragrance, parabens or anything that might irritate your face. Stay away from those that contain Sodium Lauryl Sulfate (SLS), Ammonium Lauryl Sulfate and Sodium Laureth Sulfate which is another huge skin irritant. Why is Bismuth Oxychloride questionable? This ingredient is one that is still in most of the Bare Minerals Make-up, except for their matte foundations (the only one I recommend.) Bismuth Oxychloride is an additive in many brands because it's cheap filler and it creates that shine for a dewy glow. Bismuth is a byproduct of lead and copper refining. It is non- toxic but due to it's close chemical resemblance to arsenic it irritates the skin and causes redness and itching. It's like pushing small metalic particles into your skin that can then clog pores. It has to be buffed or it will fade throughoutday. This is an ingredient that should be avoided, especially for acne or rosacea sufferers. Most mineral make-up has a natural sun protector. But don't trust that it will protect your face 100%, especially if you will be out in the sun for long periods of time. Mineral make-up has to be better for you and your complexion than those other liquid, powder foundations, and other cosmetics out there. Just inform yourself of the ingredients needed, get samples if possible to minimize your costs, try some out, and hold your breath. Really, I want to quickly mention that when you apply to your face, don't inhale. |