One of the most talked about types of cosmetics today is mineral makeup. Magazine articles extol the various benefits of using mineral makeup and cosmetic counters find that it’s one of the most requested and asked about type of makeup. With all the talk about mineral makeup, women may ask, what exactly is in it that makes it so popular? Should I try it or is it just a fad? Is it really better for my skin?

The use of minerals as cosmetics traces its origins to ancient civilizations. Egyptians, both men and women, mixed powdered lead and sheep fat to make black kohl for their eyebrows and eyelashes and used a bright green paste made from copper minerals for eye shadow. Minerals were also used for healing purposes in the form of crystal healing, which was popular in Mayan, Hebrew and Native American cultures.

While mineral makeup was first introduced in the mid-1970’s, it gained enormous popularity and saw a revival in sales in the past two years. Some of the benefits women have discovered when using mineral makeup include:

·           They’re perfect for all skin types, especially sensitive or breakout prone skin.

·           They’re free from talc, a secondary mineral that is often combined with other minerals such as chlorite and carbonate. Mineral makeup is also free from dyes, fragrances, oils and other man-made preservatives.

·           They provide full coverage while feeling light on the skin. They’re crease resistant, long lasting and can help blur fine lines on dry or mature skin.

Some ingredients in mineral makeup include:

·           Mica – helps blur the appearance of fine lines.

·           Silica – absorbs oils from the surface of the skin, thus creating a matte finish.

·           Zinc Oxide and Titanium Oxide – pigments that act as filters from UVA (Ultra Violet Aging) and UVB (Ultra Violet Burning) rays.

·           Iron Oxides – non-irritating and hypoallergenic compounds which act as colorants.

·           Rhodochrosite, Malachite and Smithsonite – extracts of these act as skin care agents to protect against daily environmental elements.

Popular types of mineral makeup include:

·           Loose and pressed powder foundations.

·           Loose and pressed eye shadows.

·           Loose and pressed blush.

·           Lip sticks and lip-glosses, which are mixed with shea butters for smoothness.

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