WHAT IS MINERAL MAKEUP? INGREDIENTS, BENEFITS AND BEST PRODUCTS

Mineral makeup has been around for a very long time, and sometimes is often misunderstood. One of the most common questions that we get asked about mineral makeup is “ does it offer the coverage and variety of other conventional makeup brands “ to answer simply, yes it does. There truly is nothing that you can not do with mineral makeup. Mineral makeup has you covered from your foundation to lips, eyes, cheeks, contouring and more! But what exactly is it, and how will your skin benefit from using it?

Mineral makeup is made primarily from naturally derived minerals and does not contain many of the traditional chemical ingredients found in conventional makeup. These minerals are compressed and often have other beneficial ingredients that will also treat and condition your skin throughout the day. Here's a breakdown of mineral makeup, including its ingredients, benefits, and some popular products:

Ingredients 

Mineral makeup typically consists of the following key ingredients

Mineral Pigments

These are natural minerals, such as zinc oxide, titanium dioxide, iron oxides, and mica, that provide colour and coverage to the makeup.

Binders

Mineral makeup often contains natural binders like sericite mica or silica to help the product adhere to the skin and hold its form.

Preservatives

Some mineral makeup formulations may include natural preservatives to extend shelf life.

Optional Additives

Some brands may include additional ingredients like antioxidants (e.g., vitamin E), botanical extracts, or other skincare ingredients to enhance the makeup's performance and benefits making it an extension of your daily skincare.

Benefits

Mineral makeup offers several potential benefits

Natural Ingredients

Mineral makeup is generally free of common synthetic chemicals, fragrances, and dyes found in conventional cosmetics, making it suitable for sensitive or inflamed skin.

Sun Protection

Many mineral makeup products contain zinc oxide and titanium dioxide, which can provide a level of sun protection due to their natural SPF properties. It is important to understand that it is still recommended that you apply your daily sunscreen, however, you know that this will also offer you some added protection too.

Non-Comedogenic

Mineral makeup is often non-comedogenic, meaning it is less likely to clog pores and cause breakouts making it perfect and a much better choice for acne-prone skins. Many people try to cover their blemishes with makeup, and unfortunately, if you are reaching for one that is not a mineral, you could potentially be making the issue much worse. Select a mineral foundation and or concealer which will also help to calm and reduce inflammation in the skin.

Buildable Coverage

It offers buildable coverage, allowing you to achieve a natural look or layer for more coverage, as needed. Some mineral makeup brands mill their minerals in such a way that the minerals are actually flat. This means that minerals will easily sit on top of each other to deepen your coverage with each application. If this is the case, it is recommended that you apply multiple, lighter layers rather than applying too much product all at once. This will provide a much better result and easier application.

Multiple Finish Options

Mineral makeup tends to have the conception that all minerals will provide a matte finish. This is not the case. There are definitely options for everyone, no matter your preference. So if you are looking for a matte or a more dewy finish, there will be something to suit.

Longevity

It can have good staying power, particularly when formulated with suitable binders and paired with the suggested finishing spray.

Reduced Irritation

Many people with sensitive skin find that mineral makeup is less likely to cause irritation or allergic reactions. This is due to the quality of the ingredients. Some chemicals in makeup can be very irritating and cause further irritation. Certain minerals such as zinc will not only calm sensitivity but will also reduce inflammation and redness in fragile skin, and prevent further issues from occurring.

Best Products

The "best" mineral makeup products can vary depending on individual preferences and skin types. At Skin Matrix, we have a wide variery of Mineral makeup brands such as Jane Iredale, Inika, Osmosis and more! There are so many incredible products, something to suit everyone's needs. We love them all, however here are a few of our all time faves that we would love to share with you. 

1. Inika BB is a lightweight, skin-loving BB Cream, packed with pure botanicals. Achieve a nourished and even complexion with this skin-loving, lightweight makeup. Silky-smooth and all-Natural, the INIKA Organic BB Cream is infused with botanical extracts that impart skincare benefits alongside tailored pigment for lightly tinted coverage.
2. Osmosis Mineral Pressed Base is formulated for all skin types, Osmosis Colour Pressed Base provides a flawless, semi-matte finish with long-lasting natural to full coverage. Natural broad-spectrum UV protection keeps the skin protected from both UVA and UVB rays helping to prevent premature aging and hyperpigmentation. Osmosis Colour Pressed Base applies quickly and easily with no mess.
3. Tribe Skincare Mineral Makeup Powder is a loose mineral foundation that offers sheer-full buildable coverage and a natural-looking finish. The non-comedogenic formula is enhanced with anti-inflammatory properties, making it perfect for those with sensitive, reactive skin, or for those prone to blemishes and breakouts. Formulated with Zinc Oxide and Titanium Dioxide, this vegan-friendly foundation also provides SPF15 protection. Tribe has you covered!
4. Inika Organic Lipstick Available in 6 kissable shades this creamy textured lipstick glides on for easy application and a fabulously flawless finish, while Natural plant oils nourish lips all day. This Inika Lipstick is enriched with lip-loving Vitamin E, healing Jojoba Oil, Argan Oil - loaded with rejuvenating essential fatty acids - plus intensively moisturising and antioxidant-rich Shea Butter.
5. Jane Iredale Glow Time Blush Sticks Multitasking blush stick for cheeks, however, can also be used on lips, eyes and body. Awarded Runner Up 'Best New Blush, Bronzer or Highlighter' in beautyheaven's Glosscar Awards 2022, and is available in 10 shades.
6. Aspect Minerals Liquid is a liquid Mineral Foundation that provides a buildable light to medium coverage. Skin tone is evened out, diffusing imperfections. Aspect Minerals Liquid hydrates while protecting the skin whilst achieving a smooth, glowing complexion.

Remember that individual preferences and skin types can vary widely, so it's essential to choose a mineral makeup product that suits your specific needs and preferences.  You may also want to consider shades that match your skin tone for the most natural look.