Mineral Makeup: Good for Skin?

Mineral makeup has been gaining in popularity over the past couple of years. First manufactured by independent cosmetic companies, now even major skin care lines are getting in on the action.

Mineral makeup is also popular because it has high usability: the colors are rich and deep, it tends to last longer than other (standard) cosmetics, it may contain natural sunscreens, and it is usually water resistant. It’s also appealing because it’s been advertised as being all natural and non-toxic.

Sure that sounds great- why not choose natural skin care whenever you can?

But just because it’s natural, does it mean it’s good for your face?

Mineral makeup contains ingredients which might cause negative skin reactions.

Most commonly, mineral makeup contains:

Mica. This is also known as sericite or “mica shimmer”. This tends to accumulate in the body and can be difficult to get rid of. Mica has been classified as toxic to the the respiratory, and gastrointestinal systems, and has toxicant effects on the liver as well. Although mica-containing cosmetics are popular, and have been approved by the FDA, it doesn’t mean that a whole lot of mica is good for you. Many mineral (and other types) of cosmetics use mica to add shine and shimmer.

Ultramarine. This comes from the stone lapis lazuli. It has long been prized as having special qualities. It was used as a cure for melancholy in the medieval times.

Titanium Dioxide. This has some sunscreen properties and is used as a color additive in cosmetics. I’ve used concealer with titanium dioxide and it worked great on my face, but irritated the skin around my eyes when I dabbed it there. I think some minerals may be too strong for thin skin.

There are other common minerals in mineral makeup, but these are the most frequently used.

Mineral makeup may be a better choice than other cosmetics; after all, mineral makeup is more natural, generally speaking. However, your best bet, always, is to apply any new cosmetics sparingly, and to monitor your skin for any adverse or negative reactions. Remember, your skin absorbs whatever you put directly on it.

Mineral makeup may be great for skin, but it may not always be great for YOUR skin. Try it out and adjust accordingly.