Mineral makeup is right in the natural makeup trend. But what exactly does this term encompass? Is mineral makeup necessarily powder makeup? Is it vegan? Is it suitable for all skin types? Does it only offer foundation or also eye shadow and lipstick? Is there a nice variation of shades for powders and shadows? Are the textures easy to use and apply? Can all brands claim to make mineral makeup or only specialized brands, such as the expert brands Zao, Lily Lolo or Neve Cosmetics? Discover our question and answer to be knowledgeable on the theme and allow you to give your opinion with complete peace of mind!
What is mineral makeup?
In powder form, this makeup is composed of pure and mineral makeup crushed natural minerals. Its advantage? Its safer formula , with a natural finish, does not obstruct the skin and provides it with the colors (for eyeshadows) or the desired correction (for foundations)., complexion correctors…), with the added bonus of sun protection for some. What’s special about this foundation? Unlike classic versions, mineral foundation is neither liquid nor in the form of cream or compact powder. This is loose powder, to be applied with a brush. When it comes to results, mineral makeup offers a covering, but natural result, a lovely slightly pink bare skin effect, discreet correction, by promoting the reflection of light and reducing skin imperfections. Mineral makeup is easily removed using makeup remover oils.
What are the most used minerals?
The stars are titanium dioxide which has several functions. First it protects from the sun, then it reflects light and offers ideal coverage. Mica offers endless finishes (matte, shiny, etc.) and serves as a base for powders. Zinc oxide is appreciated for its soothing, anti-inflammatory and protective properties. Silica and kaolin mattify the skin.
But is it clean makeup ? This make-up family aims to be “clean”, in the clean beauty movement., without chemical substances or ingredients little appreciated by consumers such as paraben or phenoxyethanol… or other potential endocrine disruptors. When it is 100% natural and therefore vegan, mineral makeup is in fact formulated solely with minerals and without preservatives, because bacteria do not develop in this environment. Unfortunately, there is no “label” that could help the consumer see things more clearly and make the right choice. Here again, it is essential to read the INCI lists or refer to the Beauté Test sheets. A doubt ? A question, a doubt? Do not hesitate to ask the community’s opinion on the forum or by private message. The site is made for that! You can also find good information in specialized or organic stores.
Are all mineral makeup equal?
“You have to be careful,” explains Anne-Marie Gabelica, Founder of oOlution, “ to choose 100% mineral and natural makeup.” Indeed, for marketing reasons , brands add pigments of mineral origin in order to ride the wave of naturalness, but without really being so since they leave chemical preservatives in the formula. How to make the right choice ? By favoring natural or organic brands which offer powder formulas (to be applied with a brush) and a range of colors for eyeshadows. “ Mascara , lipstick or gloss cannot be entirely mineral makeup”explains Anne-Marie Gabelica, founder of oOlution, which has just released a 100% natural, but not mineral, mascara.
“Similarly,” continues the cosmetic expert, “certain minerals should be avoided.” This is the case, for example, of bismuth oxychloride, “which is not natural, but synthesized from bismuth, oxygen and chlorine”. It is a white dye which gives a light effect to the final result, but can be irritating to the skin. Particularly for acne-prone skin. Likewise, titanium dioxide, although natural, is a controversial nanoparticle in certain compositions. Finally, mica can raise ethical questions, with a potential risk of child labor in its extraction depending on sourcing. Do not hesitate to ask the brands about the origin of this mineral. Some brands claim, notably on their website, the non-use of problematic minerals. This is the case, for example, of the cult English brand Lily Lolo, which guarantees talc-free, bismuth-free and nanoparticle-free shadows, eyeshadows, foundations, finishing powders and