Mad For Minerals

The beauty world is buzzing about mineral makeup. Makeup artists are working with it, dermatologists are recommending it, models are wearing it and most cosmetic companies are producing it. The hype is actually warranted. From being easy to apply to being free of bothersome ingredients, mineral makeup comes with many advantages. Here’s why you should get hooked on minerals and how to wear them for a pretty summer glow.

Beautiful benefits
Mineral makeup is kind to your skin. Generally, it’s free of harsh, synthetic ingredients, such as parabens and perfumes, that can cause irritation, says Vanessa McHugh, a makeup artist and Rexall’s cosmetics category assistant. The gentle, pure formulations make mineral makeup ideal for everyone to wear, including those with skin conditions, such as sensitivity, rosacea, eczema and psoriasis. Since they don’t clog your pores and they let your skin breathe, minerals are also fantastic for acne-prone skin types.

Meanwhile, this from-the-earth makeup can do wonders for fine lines. “The minerals actually go into the lines and reflect the sunlight to reduce their appearance,” she says. It even helps protect your skin against sun damage, because it contains titanium dioxide, which is a natural sunblock. While mineral makeup offers an SPF of about 15, McHugh cautions that it shouldn’t replace your normal sunscreen in the summer. “That’s because SPF 15 only covers you for 15 minutes,” she says. To protect your skin from the ravages of UV rays, you need more heavy-duty protection.

While mineral makeup is perfect for all seasons, you’ll especially love it in the summer -and not only because of the SPF benefit. It’s so lightweight that you don’t feel the makeup on your skin, says McHugh. And it provides great coverage and a beautiful, natural glow. “I like it because it’s not cakey, as some foundations can be. A little can go a long way,” she says. What’s more, minerals absorb excess oil, helping to prevent a typical summertime shine.

Buy the best
Not all mineral makeup is created equal. Some formulations contain undesirable additives that may upset sensitive skin. To ensure you get high quality, pure mineral makeup, check the ingredient list to confirm that it’s free of alcohol, dyes, fragrances, perfumes and chemical preservatives, such as parabens. “And avoid bismuth oxychloride, which is an ingredient that clogs pores,” says McHugh.
Look for makeup labelled non-comedongenic, which means it doesn’t block pores or cause breakouts, and with key minerals, such as zinc oxide (it reduces inflammation), titanium dioxide (it’s a sunblock) and mica (it provides pigment). Plus, go with a brand that offers foundation that doubles as a concealer and powder, so you’re spared time and money. (Find product recommendations below in Mineral Makeover.)

Mineral Makeover
It’s quick and easy to get a beautiful summertime look with minerals. First, cleanse your face, apply moisturizer with SPF and put on a foundation primer, such as Emani Foundation Primer & Hydrating Serum. (To finish your look, you may need regular mascara, as mineral ones aren’t readily available.) Then use the following products and tips to create a fresh glow. 

Transformer: This product allows you to transform loose eyeshadow into lipstick. Try Emani Base Transformer. First, apply a thin layer to your lips. Then, using a lip brush, mix a bit of the transformer with an eyeshadow in a shade suitable for your lips, such as a soft pink or peach.