What are the Benefits to Mineral Makeup?

The latest hype right now in cosmetics is mineral makeup. Producers of mineral makeups claim that they are more than just a beauty trend - mineral makeup can actually be good for your skin. They claim that because mineral makeup is made from "all natural" minerals, it is better than traditional makeup. But what are the benefits to mineral makeup?

"Mineral makeup" as its name suggests is composed of all natural, finely grounded minerals from the earth. Ideally, no chemicals, dyes, or preservatives are added (unlike traditional makeup). Dr. Kathyrn Frew, a dermatologist at Juva Skin and Laser Center and Medispa (NYC) claims that mineral makeup is "something that a lot of my patients use and love, and I use it myself."

The most popular form is the loose powder and the blush. These light powders are buffed into the skin using a wide, fluffy brush. Advocates of mineral makeup swear by the light, long-lasting glow that does not exist in traditional makeup. Did I mention its light-weight?

Critics complain about dryness and irritations. However, most dermatologists report that mineral makeup is less likely to cause irritation than traditional makeup because mineral makeups do not have the classical irritants such as binders, synthetic dyes, preservatives, and fragrances. "Makeup sensitivity is often the result of synthetic dyes, fragrances, and preservatives, so any makeup that eliminates these is going to eliminate some of the related problems," says Dr. Frew.

Mineral Makeup Ingredients
The main ingredients of most mineral makeup are mica, zinc oxide, and titanium dioxide. Dr. Frew explains that because titanium dioxide and zinc oxid have anti-inflammatory properties, mineral makeup can have a calming effect on the skin. This is especially beneficial for patients suffering from rosacea and acne. Dermatologist Francesca Fusco, MD (Mt. Sinai Medical Center), agrees. "It's non-comedongenic, so it won't clog pores, and it's not going to aggravate an acne condition or cause a flare-up as easily as some traditional makeups can," says Fusco.

Beware:
The current trend in mineral makeup is to produce even finer powder. Manufacturers advertise their "fluffy," light product. The finer the powder, the lighter the makeup. Manufacturers of mineral makeup invest in making their particles smaller, so small in fact that it can clog pores and may cause side effects that are not yet reported. So what are the benefits to mineral makeup? Other than having anti-inflammatory properties that may help relieve the effects of acne and rosacea, mineral makeups have no beneficial effects that are medically related.

Mineral Makeup and the Sun
The addition of titanium dioxide and zinc oxide in mineral makeup, two ingredients also commonly found in sunscreen, can serve as a sun protector. However, experts advise their patients to apply regular sunscreen under their makeup and to use the mineral foundation as an extra boost.

Mineral Makeup and Sleep
Makeup so pure you can sleep in it? NOT TRUE! Regardless of what the manufacturer says, DO NOT SLEEP IN YOUR MAKEUP, no matter how pure it claims to be.

What Are The Benefits to Mineral Makeup? If you suffer from acne or rosacea, mineral makeup can have a calming effect on your skin. It is generally less irritating than traditional makeup and is less likely to cause acne flare-ups or aggrivate rosacea. As far as protecting your skin from sun damage, although most mineral makeups do have a few ingredients commonly found in sunscreens, it is not recommended that mineral makeup be used as a sun protectant. Be sure to apply a daily SPF product to your face before applying your makeup and only think of mineral makeup as providing an extra boost for your sunscreen.

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