The Facts about One of the Fastest Growing Trends in the Cosmetics World: Mineral Makeup

Mineral makeup is made from all natural minerals from the earth. Most of them are a combination of serecite, mica, titanium dioxide, and zinc oxide. Titanium dioxide and zinc oxide are natural sun blocking agents and are used in almost every sun block or lotion you can buy. Most minerals are also water proof, so the hold of mineral makeup is usually all day with little or no touch up necessary. The minerals used in the makeup are crushed into a powder that is micro-fine and will blend well into the skin. A broad range of colors in the minerals make it possible for manufacturers to offer an extensive array of colors.

Big cosmetics companies spend a great deal of money on advertisements. Therefore, in order to save money some companies will fluff their minerals with fillers such as corn starch to make more products and sell it at a similar price. Many cosmetics companies will use bismuth oxychloride (B.O.) in their cosmetics because it is an inexpensive filler. B.O. has some adhesion qualities, allowing the makeup to hold to your skin better. However, there are other products that are just as good at sticking to your skin and are far better for your skin. B.O is also very reflective. This allows it to camouflage fine lines, wrinkles and discolorations. If you use a brand with Bismuth you will see a shiny and heavy look. It is a thick, heavy mineral, which makes it difficult for many people to wear. A heavy application must be used in order to ensure that it does not fall off of your face. The heaviness can sometimes result in clogged pores and irritation of the skin.

Mineral makeup companies who do not use B.O. have a smoother feeling makeup that will apply to the skin better. Some women who use mineral makeup that contains B.O. experience itching when they sweat. So, if you find you experience problems with your current mineral makeup and it contains B.O., the remedy could simply be to switch to a brand that does not use the chemical.

Ultimately mineral makeup in its purity is very all natural and cosmetics companies typically all use the same minerals. Some just choose to charge more than others and add fillers which can be damaging to your skin. You need to be certain that whichever mineral makeup company you choose to purchase from uses only the all natural minerals with no fillers or additives. So, make sure you do your research and at least know what you are buying... no matter who you are buying it from.

- Samantha Manning