Mineral Makeup is a type of cosmetic cover-up
that is made of completely natural minerals. Minerals such as
zinc, iron oxides, ultramarine, titanium oxide, bismuth
oxychloride and mica are all finely ground into a powder that is
gently dusted onto the face with a makeup brush. Using the brush
to work the makeup over all surfaces, you can achieve an even,
natural looking layer of complimentary color that enhances your
appearance and gives your skin a healthy glow due to the
reflective quality of some of the mineral compositions such as
mica.
Advantages Over Conventional
Makeup
Bacterial Content
Mineral makeup is naturally very dry, being a
loose powder. Most conventional makeup is either in liquid form
or uses some kind of bonding agent to hold the compact together.
You may have noted that most commercial cosmetics have an
expiration date because they will build up bacteria after a
short time due to their moisture content, which bacteria need to
survive. In turn, you may have to throw these cosmetics away
even if you haven't fully used the whole container. Not very
penny wise, is it?
Because it's completely dry, makeup created
from pure minerals does not support bacterial growth, so it's
safe for long term use.
Humidity
Conventional makeup doesn't have much staying
power in the best of circumstances. As it already has some
moisture content, normal makeup isn't able to absorb very much
excess facial oil or sweat. Add in humid conditions, and regular
makeup just seems to melt away, leaving you with creases, shine
and a lack of a healthy coloration.
Mineral makeup has the ability to weather
humid conditions and stay put on your face for the entire day,
so you always look great.
Skin Condition
Conventional cosmetics like liquid foundations
can clog your pores, even some that claim to be non-comedogenic.
Many also contain alpha hydroxy, and other chemical components
designed to remove the outermost layer of skin in an effort to
make you appear younger. Some people are very sensitive to these
anti-ageing products, finding their skin becomes dry and
inflamed. Artificial fragrances, and preservatives can also
cause allergic reactions for some people.
Mineral makeup is actually nourishing for your
skin, helping to block harmful UV rays, and giving you great
coverage without the inflammatory effects of conventional
cosmetics. Since only pure minerals and non-organic pigments are
used, you shouldn't experience pore clogging in most cases. Many
users notice a dramatic improvement in the quality of their skin
within a short time of using mineral makeup.
How to Apply Mineral Makeup
Follow this technique and your makeup should
look terrific.
Step One: Prime
Prepare your face by washing with a gentle
moisturizing cleanser. You may apply an extra moisturizer if you
need it, but note that you will wind up with a heavier layer of
mineral base, which you may or may not like. Simply experiment
with the amount of coverage you'd like until you discover the
perfect combination.
Step Two: Foundation
Pour a small amount of mineral foundation
powder into the container's lid, and swirl your makeup brush
around in it. Now give the brush a tap on the edge of the
container to remove any excess powder and begin brushing the
minerals onto your face. Work from your T-zone outward, swirling
the brush into all creases until you've achieved a nice even
coverage that you're pleased with.
Step Three: Blush
With a container of blush mineral powder in
your chosen shade, use the same technique to load the brush and
begin lightly dusting your cheeks, being sure to follow your
natural bone structure. You can also apply a very light dusting
to enhance other areas of your face, such as the chin, forehead
and nose. Be sure to go very light in these areas to give just
the slightest hint of a warm glow, or else you could wind up
looking like a clown.
Step Four: Eye Shadow
The general rule of thumb for eye shadow is
use three complimentary shades that look best with your skin
coloring.
Apply the lightest shade just under your
brow line.
Apply the medium shade to your main eyelid
and use your finger to blend where the two colors meet.
Apply the deepest color in the natural
crease line of your lids to accentuate the depth, then blend
lightly with your fingers to soften the line.
Use a small brow brush to apply a little
mineral mascara powder to your lashes and brows if needed to
finish the look.
By now, you should look fantastic and ready to
face the day or evening.
Is It Worth the Price?
Bargain brands of makeup may cost a lot less,
but they usually use an inferior grade of ingredients. Mineral
makeup runs in the same price range as high end cosmetics, and
since you don't have to worry about an expiration rate, they may
actually be a better value for your dollar. The only way to know
for sure is to try a small introductory kit and see if this type
of cosmetics works best for you.
