Mineral make-up

It's a beauty industry buzzword that has now teamed with some of the biggest names in the business. But what is mineral make-up? How is it meant to be used? And what are its benefits for the skin? Read on to discover all there is to know about the M word...

By Beauty Editor, Katie Corcoran

What is mineral make-up?

Unlike traditional make-up, mineral make-up is a natural based formula that doesn't contain any of nasties that normal cosmetics can do. You won't find any dyes, preservatives, wax or perfumes in mineral make-up, and for this reason it's great for sensitive skin. And if you have problem skin or skin allergies it may be part of the solution. It's light, doesn't clog your pores and some companies even say it's so gentle on the skin you can sleep in it!

Mineral make-up contains natural minerals, such as titanium and zinc oxide, that are non-comedogenic - which means they don't clog your pores or irritate your skin. They also contain a natural SPF 15 to protect your skin from the elements - crucial in winter. This is make-up that's designed to fit into a healthier natural lifestyle, one where you look after your body as much as your skin.

The Body Shop International make-up Artist Chase Aston says, "I love, love, love mineral make-up! Easy to use loose powder foundations can be blended on the skin for a sheer, natural, flawless, radiant complexion, and suits any make up wearer from 16 to 60!"

 

 

Are there any downsides?

As with any new hyped product, mineral make-up has its critics. Many claim the powder-based formulas have a drying effect on the skin, often accentuating wrinkles and fine lines, but you will also find those with the driest of skins still love it. Others say its tricky application is too time consuming and not worth the hassle. But like anything, this is an individual preference and one that needs to be tried before it can be dismissed.

 

 

Who should use mineral make-up?

Experts will say that those with oily, sensitive and problem skin should try using mineral make-up as it's so gentle on the skin. That's not to say however that people with dry and normal skin can't enjoy the benefits of mineral make-up too. It's light and comfortable for most skins to enjoy - so get yourself some to test. But if you do have a tendency to get very dry skin make sure you moisturise well. More mature skins may find that the powder formula of mineral make-up can accentuate fine lines more than cream based cosmetics, although we've met lots of people who found it covered them more - and let's face it, you won't know unless you try...

 

 

How do you use mineral make-up?

Most mineral make up is in powder formula , including the foundation. It's important to remember that the more stimulation you give mineral make-up on the brush and the skin the better it settles in. BareMinerals are the No 1 mineral make-up company in the US and here explain how to apply it. "Tap out a small amount of bareMinerals foundation into the lid, not more than two sprinkles of cinnamon on a latte. Taking your face brush swirl the bareMinerals into the lid, making sure that all the powder is taken up into hairs of the brush. This will break down the minerals into a creamy texture. Then tap the brush on the lid to remove any excess powder and starting on the outside of the face, buff the bareMinerals in a circular motion into the centre of the face. Continue to buff for a perfect application."

MAC Pro trainer Dean Rudd says, "A good set of brushes is essential for flawless application." So if you want flawless skin with minerals then invest in good brushes first.

 

 This is make-up that's designed to fit into a healthier natural lifestyle

What are the key products to get started?

It can be expensive investing in a whole new beauty kit of mineral make-up so try a few key essentials first. The best product with the most selection on the market is a mineral foundation with prices ranging from £10 to over £40 so there is something to suit every budget. Chase Aston rightly says "Remember! A little mineral make-up goes a long way" and this is key with mineral foundation, so it lasts longer and thus is great value for money!.

 

Dean Rudd says that another good introduction to mineral make-up is to try a "good selection of eyeliners in black and brown". This is great and key to achieving this season's smoky eye, and using mineral eyeliner is good for sensitive peepers. Or if you are not one for foundation go for a mineral powder, which will leave a lasting sheer finish over concealer. Be careful not to use the powder-based foundation with a mineral powder as you may see your skin getting dry.

 

Click here to see our favourite mineral make-up buys

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