One of the most important foundations to your all-natural beauty regimen are natural mineral powders – chemical-free alternatives to conventional makeup products. Keep reading to find out why you should add natural mineral powders to your makeup arsenal now.
Why Choose Mineral Powder?
Conventional makeup products contain synthetic ingredients or harsh chemicals like parabens, propylene glycol, formaldehyde, fragrance, which can dry out or irritate skin. Natural mineral makeup, on the other hand, contains titanium dioxide, zinc oxide, mica, and iron oxides, which are believed to have anti-inflammatory properties that could prevent red or itchy, problematic skin. Natural mineral powders are paraben-free and do not contain harsh chemicals. Many natural makeup products are also cruelty-free, which means they are not tested on animals.
The most popular mineral makeup is foundation (loose or pressed) – a coverup enriched with nutrients to not only help hide skin blemishes but also promote a balanced skin tone and healthy-looking skin. Plus, it’s packed with nutrients that are safe for sensitive skin and won’t clog pores. In fact, many acne sufferers say mineral powders like foundations actually help clear up their skin, because it’s not oily and won’t clog pores – whereas conventional makeup that blocks pores tends to cause blackheads and acne breakouts.
There are some skeptics about the functionality of mineral powders, though. Some women say mineral powders accentuate fine lines and wrinkles, as well as flaky skin. However, in the hot sun, mineral powder makeup is said to wear better than traditional makeup. Here are four types of must-have mineral powders you should have in your beauty box and why.
Top 4 Types of Mineral Powders
Loose Mineral Powder Foundation: Lightweight loose mineral powders can be applied as a foundation before applying the rest of your makeup to give skin an even tone and to reduce redness or shiny spots, while still allowing your pores to breathe. To find the perfect shade, test the color on your wrist or your jawline. It can be applied to clean skin with a short kabuki brush. Be sure to tap any excess powder off the brush before application.
Mineral Powder Foundation: This type of mineral powder travels easier, and you won’t accidentally find any loose powder on your clothing after application. Pressed mineral powder foundation can be applied with a sponge or a cotton pad. It is available in many shades, as well as in water-resistant varieties with SPF 15 or more.
Mineral Eyeshadow: The best part about mineral powder eyeshadow is the ability to glam up or tone down any look in just a matter of minutes. While some loose mineral eyeshadows require putting a primer on the eyelids first, others only need a dip or two with an eyeshadow brush, and a gentle sweep across the lids. Blend different shades to find your favorite look, and for festive occasions, select iridescent or smoky shades. For a more casual, natural look, choose shades just a hint or two off your skin tone in pinks, tans, nudes, caramels or browns.
Mineral Blush: The pigments and sheen of mineral blushes and bronzers are simply stunning. Help your cheeks and cheekbones stand out with a pop of color that doubles with an antioxidant punch, depending on which brand of products you choose. The brand bareMinerals offers READY Blush, a solid mineral powder blush available in eight long-lasting shades with charming names like The Confession to The Aphrodisiac. Or try a trusted all-natural makeup brand like Jane Iredale, which sells a wide variety of shades and textures of loose and pressed mineral powders – everything for your beauty arsenal from mineral blush to foundations to eyeshadows and accessories.
Which mineral powders will you try? Share your favorite natural beauty brands and products with us in the comments below!
Photo by Raphael Lovaski on Unsplash
