Difference Between Mineral and Traditional Makeup

For starters, these earthy cosmetics are made from finely ground mineral powders; all natural ingredients that enhance the look of skin while providing it with protection from the environment. Now here's the detailed lowdown on specifically what mineral products have to offer.

How Is Mineral Makeup Different Than Other Cosmetics?

Most traditional makeup formulations contain some mineral pigments, but are also filled with synthetic dyes, talc, oil, fragrances, and alcohols; additives that can clog pores, pollute and dry the skin as well as cause sensitivities and allergic reactions. Pure minerals conceal imperfections without covering the natural 'you' up, and provide long-lasting protection for any skin type, even those prone to product allergies and sensitivities.

Rock Your Natural Beauty, Don't Bury It!

The thick, creamy formulas of traditional bases and concealers can cake and be difficult to blend. Thick, heavy cosmetic products also settle into fine lines and wrinkles, accentuating imperfections. In contrast, mineral makeup can provide a flawless finish, while allowing your skin to breathe, glow, and, basically look like skin. Mineral mixtures are so light-weight they can be layered on the skin, naturally blending to effectively conceal imperfections. They also deflect light, which further minimizes the appearance of fine lines and wrinkles.

Long-lasting Protection for Your Skin

Everyday your skin is assaulted by environmental stressors-sun, pollution and other causes of oxidative damage-that can result in premature aging. Mineral cosmetics offer natural protection that nurtures, and keeps your complexion looking its best. Zinc oxide and titanium dioxide, ingredients present in many mineral formulations, also provide some natural, broad-spectrum sun protection to help block harmful UVA and UVB rays.

Naturally Good for Every Skin Type and Age

Many dermatologists agree that this natural makeup, without artificial additives such as fragrances, dyes, and preservatives, is gentler to the skin. Mineral makeup also doesn't clog pores, is less likely to trigger allergic reactions, and is excellent for those with sensitive skin. In addition to UV protection, both titanium dioxide and zinc oxide also possess anti-inflammatory properties that have a calming effect on the skin and can reduce the red inflamed appearance commonly associated with conditions such as acne and rosacea (Goudah & Guth 2006).

But Not All Minerals are Created Equal

Be careful though-all products touted as 'mineral' are not equally natural. "There are lines of mineral makeup that do contain fragrances, dyes, mineral oil and preservatives, and are no better than traditional makeup", warns Tyler Hansen, founder of Mineral Hygienics. "Before you buy a mineral cosmetic, look at the ingredients; mica, iron oxides, zinc oxides and titanium dioxides are the only minerals that a quality product need contain. Anything else listed as an ingredient is unnecessary, unnatural and detracts from the benefits of using a mineral product in the first place."

For example, bismuth oxychloride is often used as the pearlizing agent, as well as a filler and binder in products. And although bismuth is a mineral, it is not one found in the earth, but is a byproduct of lead and copper processing; most definitely no an ingredient that you want touching your skin.

High-Profile Props for High-Quality Minerals

This down-to-earth makeup has been publicly praised by the beauty editors and columnists of many publications, including Women's Health, The Oprah Magazine, American Bride and the New York Times. Even dermatologists, skin MDs, have been giving props to minerals. In a recent article on WebMD, dermatologist Francesca Fusco, MD, of Mount Sinai Medical Center, was singing the praises of mineral cosmetics.

Using mineral or any type of makeup is an individual choice and preference, but why not give minerals a try and see if you become another fan who believes that mineral cosmetics rock?

Additional SourcesWafik Goudah, M and Guth, EP (2006). Effect of zinc oxide catalyzed peroxide on sterols of almond, cottonseed, and olive oils. Journal of Pharmaceutical Sciences, Vol. 52 (8).