Weighing the benefits of using mineral makeup – Archive
Written by Crow's Nest Staff, Oct 19, 2010, 0 Comments
Taylor Gaudens
Contributing Editor
Mineral makeup has been on the market for several years. Many companies are producing their own lines to keep up with the demand for having beneficial ingredients for the skin.
The benefit of most mineral makeup is that they do not have parabens, a preservative and bonding agent used in nearly every beauty product. Some people are allergic to paraben, and in the past, it was difficult for women to find makeup without it.
Mineral makeup lacks moisture—common in traditional makeup—making it more sanitary to use. It gives the makeup about a two to three-year shelf life, as opposed to traditional makeup’s average of six months.
Other benefits of mineral makeup include oil absorption, the lightweight feel and dermatologists often recommend it. The finely ground minerals adhere to the skin, but are not absorbed into the skin, so the makeup does not clog pores. The lightweight feel of the makeup allows your skin to “breathe” and gives the skin a more natural look.
With every pro, there is a con. Mineral makeup seems to be healthier for your skin, but the lack of moisture in mineral makeup makes it harder to blend.
The moisture in traditional makeup seems to be good in this case. However, moisture encourages bacteria to grow, and can cause the makeup to settle into lines and wrinkles, which enhances flaws, and clogs pores.
Although traditional makeup may contain minerals, it also has harmful ingredients like alcohol, talc and fragrances that can irritate the skin. Mineral makeup can also irritate the skin, but like with most beauty products, it is different with every user.
Some argue that mineral and organic makeup is a scam, and is not different from traditional makeup. Of course, the makeup companies do not agree, so it is left up to the users to decide—to go with what you know, or try something new.
If you decide to purchase mineral and organic makeup instead of traditional makeup, look for “all natural” on the label, not “from nature” or “natural beauty,” to ensure you are getting what you want.
