Uncovering Mineral MakeupBy Lyra Pappin [Beauty]
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Why are some challenging the claim that mineral makeup is safer and healthier? Lyra Pappin takes a look at both sides of the issue.  Mineral makeup may have been around for some time, but it’s just recently beginning to make its way into mainstream markets and households. As our culture grows increasingly concerned with healthcare, many people are turning to more natural options for everything from food to cosmetics. What’s In It? As the name suggests, mineral cosmetics are mainly made up of finely ground, refined, pulverized minerals. These organic components are ground into extremely fine particles and blended with other non-organic pigments to create a range of colour hues and finishes. Creators suggest that the natural components create crystal layers on your skin, which still allows it to breathe and may even help protect against pollutants in the air. Also, since minerals are inert and inorganic (not living), they don’t allow microbial growth, which also helps to prevent skin irritation and breakouts. True mineral makeup does not have any fragrance, dyes or synthetic preservatives added to it. It usually has a composition that includes zinc oxide, titanium dioxide, bismuth oxychloride and iron oxides, which help comprise the palette spectrum while also providing naturally anti-inflammatory effects. While zinc oxide in particular can be helpful to people with sensitive skin or rosacea, others must be careful with bismuth oxychloride, which can be irritating to skin in large amounts. Why Try It? Besides the possible benefits to your skin, mineral makeup has received rave reviews from seemingly everyone who has tried it. As higher end brands such as Prescriptives and MAC continue to release quality cosmetics, it’s easy to see why. Especially popular are pressed and loose powders, blush and foundation. The mineral blends in these products allow for sheer coverage and without the traditional preservatives and additives, they allow skin to breathe easily and don’t clog pores, thereby possibly contributing to the general health of your skin. Since the typical mineral makeup customer is health conscious, you can also bet on these products being more likely to include SPF. MAC’s Mineralize Satin Finish liquid foundation has an SPF of 15 and provides sheer coverage with a dewy finish. In my opinion, a must-have is their Mineralize Skinfinish. Composed of minerals that are slowly baked, it provides incredible coverage and a soft, natural finish that could be used as a sheer foundation or to set makeup with long-lasting staying power. Also, keep in mind that a little goes a long way with mineral makeup. Due to their compact nature, they are very strong and should be used sparingly to avoid looking too intensely done up. |
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