When mineral makeup first came during the 1970s, it was quickly overshadowed by mainstream cosmetic brands. Yet, time has changed. After over three decades of innovation and creativity, plus the boost from word of mouth from people who appreciated the product, mineral makeup is finally gaining popularity and cementing its place in the market.
Today, many are making the switch, from typical women to moms, models, and celebrities. Yet, a concern for those still on the other end of the line is its safety. What is actually a mineral makeup? What are its ingredients? Is it good for daily use? Don’t fret, as we’ve got the answers. Read below to find out.
Mineral Makeup Safety
Mineral makeup’s main idea is to refrain from any ingredients that interfere with the skin’s normal function. To achieve that, it uses naturally occurring materials, such as zinc, titanium oxide, and mica, which are milled to an extremely fine texture and blended with pigment. Thus, making it non-irritating and safe for daily use on the skin. Mineral makeup is also free from synthetic FD&C colors that can trigger allergic reactions and are even linked to cancer and fillers, like talc, which can clog pores.
While conventional makeup products use waxes, oils, petroleum-based ingredients, artificial fragrances, preservatives, and other bulking agents, none are present in mineral makeup. Mineral makeup may have relatively fewer ingredients. Yet, what you cannot find in these products makes mineral makeup safe for the skin.
Yet, less doesn’t mean mineral makeup is inferior. Aside from safety, it bestows lots of significant benefits to the skin, making it more suitable for daily use. Some of its healthy perks include:
- It has built-in SPF: Most mineral makeup contains zinc oxide and titanium oxide, which act like non-toxic physical sunscreen. Both ingredients are great UV filters, which aids in preventing skin burning, irritation, dark spots, pigmentation, and other signs of photo-aging.
- It doesn’t clog pores: The majority of traditional makeup utilizes preservatives, talc, and other nasty ingredients that stay and sink on the skin, clog pores and cause breakouts. Mineral makeup is non-comedogenic. It allows the skin to breathe, making it perfect for those suffering from enlarged pores, acne, and oily skin.
- It is ideal for sensitive and reactive skin: Mineral makeup is free of irritants, which causes itching, dryness, and irritation. That is why it’s highly recommended for people with sensitive skin, acne breakouts, or conditions like eczema, psoriasis, and rosacea. Thanks to its inert properties, mineral makeup cannot be altered by biological and chemical reactions, making it more gentle and even suitable for all skin types.
- It feels lighter: Mineral makeup feels significantly lighter on the skin as it lacks the oil, waxes, and bulking agents present in most conventional makeup. It will feel like you’re not wearing makeup as it seemingly acts as a part of your skin. Plus, it needs light dusting to be effective and let your natural look glow through.
- It stays put: What’s remarkable is that mineral makeup is heat-, water, and wear-resistant. It can withstand changes in temperatures. It won’t flake in cold weather or budge like typical makeup in hot locations.
However, be cautious as some cosmetic brands claim that they are offering mineral makeup but actually contain synthetic or artificial ingredients that can irritate the skin. Other chemicals may even enter your body and cause long-term health issues. To ensure your safety, make sure to read the labels first and watch out for the substances below. If you see them, skip the product as it is not real mineral makeup.
- Heavy metals: These include lead, arsenic, chromium, mercury, cobalt, cadmium, nickel, and antimony. They are toxic and pose significant health risks.
- Parabens: Used as a preservative, it is believed to alter normal hormonal functions, leading to ovarian and breast cancer.
- Phthalates: These are chemicals added to make the fragrance linger or used as a solvent but can lead to lung, kidney, liver, and reproductive system damage.
- Talc: It is used as an absorbent and anti-caking agent but can cause respiratory problems, poisoning, and cancer.
Takeaway
Cosmetics are there to make you feel good and confident. However, don’t forget that it should make you stay healthy as well. So, be careful with the products that you use. Always opt for ones that will not do your body harm but instead just bring out the best in you every day.