When talking about skin friendly makeup, mineral based cosmetics comes to mind. One of the hottest trends in make-up today is the presence of loose-powder minerals in cosmetics. With the brands claiming terms such as ‘naked’, ‘pure’ and ‘bare’, mineral makeup is one of the best products for your skin.
It was yesterday where cosmetics were made up of fragrance, filler, binders, preservatives and synthetic dyes. Mineral cosmetics or the natural cosmetics being easier on the skin, today you’ll find this type of makeup everywhere these days. The world of cosmetics have come of age, numerous cosmetic lines has been launched all over the world to meet the incessant demand of men and women to look younger and glamorous at social events.
Gone are days where you could only find caked look followed by the shades of pink and red and brown. Today, the textures and the hues of the cosmetics obtainable are kind, skin-friendly and natural. Many doctors and dermatologists have claimed minerals in cosmetics as the skin care makeup. Mineral cosmetics are so healthy that it covers blemishes, acne, scars and big pores very effectively.
Being free of harsh chemical additives, talc, preservatives and fragrances, mineral makeup comes right in line with the trend towards natural. Main ingredient of this makeup is mineral that comes from the earth. The cosmetic line is to promote for all skin types and complexions.
Few Common Minerals in Cosmetics Found Today
Iron Oxide
Commonly known as rust, isotopes of iron oxide have been used from the prehistoric times as dyes, paints and pigments. Various chemical configurations create various colours, such as: red, brown, black tones and yellow.
Titanium Dioxide
This naturally occurring substance has also been used in food colouring, reducing pain and as an effective sunscreen. Most dermatologists recommend a minimum SPF rating of 25 for skin protection. In cosmetics Titanium Dioxide is used primarily as a thickener and more recently, for the SPF protection. No makeup is pure enough “to sleep in it”, wash your face at night before going to sleep.
Mica
Derived from an ancient word for “glitter”, the light diffusing properties of mica have made it a component in eye colours for decades. Mica is highly heat resistant and has been prized for centuries. In mineral cosmetics, mica is used to reflect light; the shimmering effect helps in diffusing the fine lines by bending light.
Kaolin or Kaolinite
This nearly white mineral is a soft, chalk-like substance. This earthy clay is prevalent around the globe and is another true mineral for cosmetics. Due to the absorbent nature of clay, it sticks uniformly to the contours of facial skin giving mineral make-up a long-lasting coverage.
For normal to oily skin, nature’s minerals are a boon. If you have decided to use minerals in cosmetics, I advise you to make sure you compare products and know exactly what you are getting for your skin. Your skin and looks are your first impression afterall.
