Benefits of Mineral Makeup

Mineral makeup is often selected by Hollywood stars because of its versatility, coverage, and non-comedogenic properties. They wear a lot of makeup, for long periods of time, so choosing a product that will not clog pores is very important, especially when they trade on their looks. No wonder, then, that this particular type of makeup has grown in popularity over the years with other folk as well.

Ingredients of Mineral Makeup
The ingredients listed below play a role in the composition of mineral makeup.

Bismuth Oxychloride

This material adds a slight shine to mineral-based makeup. It is known for its translucent and adhesive properties, and fair absorbency but should be used in moderation as it may cause allergic reactions or irritation in some skin types.

• Kaolin Clay

Kaolin clay is very absorbent and increases adhesion as well as oil absorption. This particular material is not good for dry skin types. Average coverage is provided by this mineral makeup ingredient. It has a creamy consistency.

• Magnesium Stearate

This mineral is highly adhesive and it has average, matte coverage. This particular mineral improves adhesion in mineral makeup.

• Micronized Titanium Dioxide

This particular mineral is translucent and offers UV protection. Though micronized titanium dioxide is more expensive, it offers amazing results.

• Rice Starch

Rice starch is considered to be a skin soother and an emollient. This particular mineral makeup ingredient is translucent, with cohesive properties.

• Sericite Mica

This particular mineral adds shine to the mineral makeup formulations. The mica has translucent qualities, with adhesion and fair absorbency. It is very silky to the touch.

• Talc

Not all mineral makeups use it, but talc can preferred by some because it does not have a dehydrating effect. Kaolin clay tends to be more dehydrating than talc. Translucent and silky are the primary characteristics of talc.

• Titanium Dioxide (White)

This mineral provides natural UV protection and is a high coverage mineral whitener.

• Zea Mays

Zea mays is also known as corn starch. This mineral makeup ingredient has absorbent properties, silky texture and is translucent. It does not adhere to the skin very well. Zea mays should be combined with other minerals to increase cohesion. Kaolin clay is often used to increase cohesion.

• Boron Nitride

This particular ingredient provides adhesive properties and anti-slip properties to mineral-based makeup. It also provides a light and silky texture. This ingredient achieves average coverage but the adhesive properties are high.

Not all mineral makeup contains all ingredients. Some have as few as four! (plus colours).


What makes mineral makeup different?

Mineral make up is lighter and provides more sheer coverage than other types of makeup. It does not clog pores. Regular makeup may provide a brighter and more intense coverage, which is often preferred for artistic effects in modelling shoots. On the downside, regular makeup may breed bacteria, clog pores, or promote allergies and acne.


A summary of the benefits of mineral makeup

Some of the reported benefits of mineral makeup include:

Mineral makeup is non-comedogenic (will not clog pores)
can provide UVB and UVA protection from the sun (check the package)
Minimal allergy risks (beware Bismuth Oxychloride, however)
Some healing properties
Generally anti-inflammatory, calms the skin
Provides good coverage
Water resistant
Minerals do not allow bacteria to thrive
Lasts longer than other makeup, because less is needed

Brands of Mineral Makeup

There are many brands of mineral makeup available in pharmacies, department stores and online. Some popular brands include:

Jane Iredale
PUR Minerals
Bare Escentuals
Sheer Cover Mineral Makeup
GloMinerals Minerals Makeup
Avon Mineral Makeup
Mary Kay Mineral Makeup
Philosophy Mineral Makeup
Colourscience Mineral Makeup
Everyday Minerals


Chelsi Woolz takes pride in her appearance and favours a natural skincare and beauty regime. She loves to share beauty tips that she discovers when researching her freelance stories.