All About Mineral Makeup

Mineral makeup has exploded in popularity in the past few years. Mineral makeup is minerals that have been ground into a very fine powder and is brushed onto the skin. The makers claim that it gives a smoother appearance and can cover skin discolorations better than traditional makeup. Women have discovered this makeup phenomenon and continue to drive sales through the roof. Some people have pointed out that the powdered minerals are the same components that a consumer will find in traditional makeup, minerals such as mica, zinc oxide, and titanium dioxide. Some experts say that mineral makeup can give many of the same problems as traditional, clogged pores and other skin irritation. But many dermatologists have concluded that powdered makeup is a purer form than traditional liquids and creams, leaving out dyes and creams that can possibly cause allergic reactions. In fact, titanium dioxide and zinc oxide have anti-inflammatory properties that may help some skin problems like rosacea.

Because of the high content of titanium dioxide and zinc oxide of most mineral makeup, they have an average SPF rating of 15. One company that produces mineral makeup, Bare Minerals, received the Skin Cancer Foundation seal of approval for its' sunscreen properties. Though dermatologists warn that mineral makeup does not provide the full amount of sun protection needed. These practioners recommend using a traditional cream sunscreen under the powder foundation for extra protection, though for someone who has just had a facial procedure such as microdermabrasion or laser resurfacing, cream sunscreen may not be helpful or applicable. Many mineral makeup's are safe after such a procedure.

Mineral makeup in the most part is safe for sensitive skin. The quality of the brand purchased and careful consideration is key to finding the perfect mineral makeup. Some contain vitamins, antioxidants, and the minerals needed to hydrate skin and give it a healthy glow. When women are too busy or just unable to get to a spa for expensive skin treatments, the ingredients in some of the brands refresh skin and help it heal. One company with ingredients like triple milled titanium, gold, zinc, magnesium, and aluminum say that these will help give you spa like results of relaxation in your own home. Other representatives have claimed that mineral makeup is safe to sleep in, though some experts warn against sleeping in any makeup, no matter how pure. For the best results, mineral makeup should not have artificial colors, preservatives, or fragrances. The ingredients used for these additives can trigger allergic reactions in some users.

Women who have fine lines or age spots enjoy a younger look because of the way mineral makeup reflects light. It can cover complexion flaws, uneven skin tone, and dark eye circles. Unlike traditional makeup, mineral makeup does not cake into fine lines and wrinkles. It 'floats' above them in some formulas. Some formulas are called 'intensive' and have extra vitamins included to help combat wrinkles. Mineral makeup has the tendency to last longer and look fresher than traditional makeup, with some lasting all day with no touch ups, even in humid weather. There are bad products in every makeup line, so it is advised to read the ingredient label and to purchase from a reliable source that offers a money back guarantee in case of allergic reaction or other irritation.

When considering a mineral makeup, the main culprit of allergic reactions in many preparations is bismuth chloride. While this is technically a mineral, it does not come from the earth. Bismuth is a byproduct of metal processing, namely copper and lead. It is the pearlizing agent used for a 'candlelight glow' in some mineral makeup preparations. Bismuth ox chloride is a skin irritant that may cause itching, rash, and in some cases, cystic acne when used in large amounts. Experts warn that if anyone who has acne or rosacea should avoid mineral makeup with bismuth listed in the additives. There have been some studies in recent years linking talc with some cancers. This is due to the presence of asbestos in the talc deposits. U.S. regulations do not allow asbestos tainted talc into any product.

A few experts in makeup have mentioned that nanopulverized minerals can be harmful if inhaled. It is advised to use caution when applying the makeup as to not cause a 'clouding' effect and breathing the dust. Some consumers have complained about the powder getting into the eyes during or after application. This can be avoided by using the right brush, careful and light application.

Mineral makeup is not limited to just the companies that specifically produce the powdered makeup. L'Oreal, Neutrogena, and a few other mainstream companies have launched mineral makeup lines. These makeup's are readily available anywhere those brands are sold, making mineral make up more accessible to all women. Not all of the mainstream companies can boast a truly synthetic free formula, this is usually reserved for the brands that solely sell mineral makeup. Adding synthetics to the powder formulas is also a battle line drawn between the marketing mineral makeup companies. While some refuse to add 'extras', other brands do allow synthetics such as fragrance, preservatives, and color additives.

Bare Escentuals is the leading maker and distributor of mineral makeup in the United States today. Bare Escentuals opened its' first store in Los Gatos, California in 1976. Their Bare Minerals products are claimed to be free of preservatives, talc, oil, and fragrance. Bare Minerals also claims to have no fillers and to improve the condition of skin over time. According to their website, www.bareminerals.com the foundation looks like a powder yet feels like a cream. The website offers a starter kit that includes the following: 2 shades of bareMinerals SPF 15 Foundation, Mineral Veil finishing powder, Warmth All-Over Face Color, Flawless Application Face Brush, Handy Buki Brush, Maximum Coverage Concealer Brush, In-depth How-To Guide, bareMinerals Eyeshadow, Light Stroke Brush, bareMinerals face Radiance, and a How-To DVD. The kit can be purchased with two payments of $29.99, plus shipping and handling.

Iredale Mineral Cosmetics was introduced in 1994. It is marketed as the first makeup line to have not only color enhancement, but benefits to the skin. Jane Iredale, the founder, offered her line of cosmetics to physicians and as a result plastic surgeons were the first to try the line on patients who had just underwent laser resurfacing. Jane Iredale herself underwent the procedure and used her own product afterwards to show the ability of 'Amazing Basic' to conceal. The website, www.janeiredale.com encourages buyers to contact Iredale and says it' founder enjoys one on one relationships with customers. The website also offers information for vegans and a store locator.

Everyday Minerals was founded by Carla Menzies and it contains only four inert ingredients. They are: mica, titanium dioxide, zinc oxide, and iron oxides. Compared to the other companies, the products from Everyday Minerals are the most cost effective for those interested in trying out mineral makeup. The site offers a free sample kit of three foundations, one blush, and one concealer. The kit is free and the shipping and handling has a very fair rate calculated on where the buyer lives. Their website is located at www.everydayminerals.com and is highly recommended for first time buyers. The site accepts paypal as well.

Aromaleigh is a newer company that is small and family owned. The website, www.aromaleigh.com , is chock full of information and includes a forum for customers. Friendly, well developed, and free samples with each order keeps loyal customers returning to Aromaleigh. The company also offers traditional makeup and accessories. The site accepts all credit cards and paypal. Aromaleigh donates a percentage of each sale to Heifer International a charity dedicated to helping those in poor countries become self reliant.

Stacey Graham of Wynter Moon Minerals, www.wyntermoonminerals.com has been a mineral makeup consultant for the past year after her introduction to mineral wear. She has had only glowing reviews of mineral makeup from her clients and had this to say concerning mineral makeup:

"Mineral makeup releases you from the gooey, icky liquid makeup women have been forced to choose for years. You're able to blend your own shades quickly and easily, showing a natural beauty you can't find elsewhere. I love how it makes women feel gorgeous by covering acne scarring, rosacea and those tiny blemishes that pop up overnight!"

Some mineral makeup's can be hard to find, as certain brands are only available in medical offices, spas, or high end stores. The higher end brands can be very expensive, even with the fact that they may contain exactly the same ingredients as a lower priced makeup. Nearly all are applied in the same manner and if not applied correctly, can look powdery on the face. It is recommended to follow the instructions on how to apply for each brand used. Not every brand will need to be applied in the same way, though most are applied using a good quality makeup brush. A low quality brush will not give the proper effect.