The current beauty trend is to look naturally fresh, as though you’re not wearing any make-up at all. Celebrities, models and make-up artists are choosing lighter, earth-friendly products that don’t contain chemicals, oils and preservatives and still deliver good results.
Mineral make-up isn’t a new phenomenon; it’s been around since the 1970s, but it’s currently enjoying resurgence thanks to celebrity use and the growing demand for all things eco. Word soon spreads if a product actually works, and many of the mineral products on the market are garnering rave reviews. So, how does it differ from the big beauty brands, and what are the cult products to look out for?
The Benefits of Using Mineral Make-Up
- It’s made from minerals so doesn’t contain harmful parabens, which block the skin. This makes it a good choice for sensitive skins. It uses zinc and titanium oxide, which are natural sunscreens that have anti-inflammatory properties.
- Mineral foundation does more than one job: as well as concealing blemishes it contains natural SPF to protect your skin from the sun.
- It’s light and easy to use and doesn’t "cake" your skin or show up laughter lines and wrinkles.
How Does Mineral Make-up Differ From the Big Brands?
Mineral make-up feels different to apply. It’s lighter than regular foundation and works best by layering. Some brands are more translucent and reflective so shop around and try different products until you find one that suits your skin type. It’s light and easy to use, gives good coverage and lasts all day. Apparently, it’s also fine to sleep in, if it’s been one of those nights.
How Do I Apply Mineral Make-up?
With mineral foundation the idea is to tap some out into the pot, dot it on to the skin and blend it in well with the brush that is supplied. Brands have different methods of application according to the product. Less is more with mineral make-up, so you’re supposed to layer it on lightly and gradually build up colour.
Mineral Make-up Brands
It is a matter of trial and error. Ask for a demo in-store to test out different brands and products, in various price ranges, to see what suits your skin best. You can buy starter kits and sample pots, which is a cheaper way of trying out a brand before you invest in bigger quantities.
Popular Mineral Make-up Brands
- BareEscentuals – idbare Minerals Loose Foundation, £17.50*. This is the top-selling foundation in the USA. Bare Escentuals have been making mineral make-up since the 1970s.
- Jane Iredale Liquid Minerals Foundation, £30.40 and Pure Pressed Triple Eye Shadow, £21.50, Jane Iredale worked with dermatologists to develop mineral cosmetics after seeing the problems conventional make-up products were causing.
- Laura Mercier Mineral Eye Powder, £16.
- Avon Personal Match Smooth Mineral Make-Up, £7.
As a greener, chemical-free alternative mineral make-up is a welcome change. Far from being a fad, new brands and products are being created all the time, and the bigger make-up houses have started formulating their own mineral products, which suggests that it is here to stay. This is one way to give your skin a 'breather', while still wearing make-up and feeling good.
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