Common Ingredients Used in Mineral Makeup

Mineral makeup, usually in powdered form, is produced by using natural, finely grounded minerals from the earth. They include foundations, blushes and eyeshadows. While the exact formula for each brand of mineral makeup may differ, here are some of the ingredients most commonly used by manufacturers:

Titanium Dioxide
Titanium Dioxide is a naturally-occurring mineral in its unprocessed state. It is not known to cause any irritation to the skin. It provides sun protection and has high light refraction properties to reduce the look of fine lines and large pores.

Zinc Oxide
Also a naturally occurring mineral, zinc oxide is a great natural sunscreen that protects skin against UVA and UVB rays with no risk of irritation. It is known for its healing properties for problem skin and is the primary ingredient found in diaper rash ointments.

Mica
Mica is a mineral silicate with a crystalline shine. It provides the shimmer in mineral makeup (as well as in many eyeshadows, blushers and face powders).

Bismuth Oxychloride
Bismuth-oxychloride is manufactured synthetically and is a by-product of lead and copper processing. This ingredient gives the makeup a pearly sheen and a smooth texture.

Kaolin Clay/ Talc
The main function of kaolin clay/talc in the manufacturing of mineral makeup is to provide coverage and oil-absorption.

Iron Oxides
These are naturally occurring mineral pigments that give mineral makeup it's colours.


Mineral Makeup – Caring for Skin and Environment

Compared to conventional makeup, mineral makeup is typically free of artificial fragrance, colours, binders, preservatives and alcohol.

Mineral makeup is generally produced from naturally-derived ingredients and is not based on chemicals and non-renewable resources like petroleum.

In addition, as oil is not used in the manufacturing process, individuals with oily skin do not have to worry about clogged pores (non-comedogenic) and benefit from the oil-absorbing qualities of mineral makeup. What’s more, this also means having longer-lasting makeup without the hassle of frequent touching up!

Furthermore, some individuals who suffer from rosacea, acne or sensitive skin reported that mineral makeup has help to sooth their skin and reduce inflammation (due to the healing properties of some of the minerals). The lightness of the makeup also offers coverage while providing relieve for their skin conditions and aiding the healing process. In fact, some people feel that mineral makeup is so safe that it can even be worn to sleep.

Just as mineral makeup is gentler on the skin than conventional ones, so it’s its impact on the environment. As mineral makeup is generally produced from naturally-derived ingredients and is not based on chemicals and non-renewable resources like petroleum, it minimises by-products from the manufacturing process that can become hazardous to the environment.

Ingredients to Beware Of

But does "natural” and "from the earth" really means that mineral makeup is risk-free? Maybe not. After all, each brand is formulated differently, it’s important to know what goes into every product. Here are some ingredients to watch out for:

Bismuth Oxychloride
It is a known skin irritant that can cause some people to suffer breakouts, rashes or skin irritations, especially those with acne or rosacea.

Micronized Titanium Dioxide
Some brands use nano titanium dioxide or micronized titanium dioxide. Through nano-technology, the mineral is broken down into such tiny particles that they can be absorbed by the skin. When these particles enter your body, whether through the skin or inhalation, they become toxic and are harmful to your health.

Mineral makeup generally makes for a better option than many conventional cosmetics laden with chemicals, be sure to scrutinise the labels for ingredients that can be potentially harmful.

Kaolin Clay/Talc
While they provide coverage and have oil-absorption properties, they can also dry skin out and clog pores. Talc can also cause problems with the respiratory system.

FD & C Dyes
These are synthetic colourants which can cause skin irritations and are believed to be cancer-causing.

Carmine
An animal by-product, this is a red pigment obtained from boiling dried beetles. It can cause skin irritations in some individuals. Also, products containing carmine are not vegetarian or vegan.

Making Wise Choices

Even as mineral makeup generally makes for a better option than many conventional cosmetics laden with chemicals, be sure to scrutinise the labels for ingredients that can be potentially harmful.

After all, what goes onto your skin can be absorbed into your bloodstream, so exercise caution and protect your skin and health from potential damage.

© EcoAsia 2009