Pure Skincare: Mineral Myths in Skin Care

Skincare-News.com debates the question: is mineral makeup actually as good for the skin as advertisements make it sound?

Sacramento, CA (PRWEB) October 27, 2007 -- Chances are, most people have already heard of mineral makeup, and the host of beneficial claims it is supposed to have for the skin. But is this product pure enough to sleep in? Skincare-News.com's latest article, "Make Mine Minerals!" explains how mineral makeup can benefit the skin, and a few things companies don't mention about this current beauty and skincare trend.

http://www.skincare-news.com/articles.php?ArtID=449

Made from crushed minerals such as mica, iron oxide, titanium dioxide and zinc oxide, mineral makeup has been around since the early 70's, in various forms. Although mostly known as foundation, mineral makeup is available as powder, blush, and eye shadow. Staunch supporters of mineral foundations love the light as silk texture and skin-true finish, often radically different than a liquid or crème foundation that can appear heavy or pasty on the skin. Those with sensitive skin, acne or rosacea are drawn to the claims that it is safer and less irritating to the skin and almost everyone is tempted by the promise that mineral makeup is 'natural' and 'pure'.

But just how pure is pure? As with a lot of cosmetic claims, natural does not necessarily mean free of chemicals or preservatives. And even though natural is touted as better for the skin -- some chemicals and preservatives are actually good things, so read labels carefully. In fact, most skincare products contain some sort of preservative -- a paraben or even Vitamin E to prevent spoilage and extend the shelf life of the formula.

Also, some 'natural' ingredients are just a likely to cause an allergic reaction; think about how many people have food allergies? Don't be tricked into thinking that merely because a powder claims to be natural that it is free of ingredients that may irritate the skin.

With the vast availability of mineral foundations available today, how are so many companies able to offer these amazingly pure formulas? Easy -- companies can call just about any formulation containing minerals 'natural' because there are no regulations governing this type of product. As long as the product contains some percentage of minerals, the company can decide to market it as being more pure than other makeup. Many companies may add synthetic fillers, dyes or fragrance to their products and still claim it is 'pure'.

Some potentially irritating ingredients to be on the lookout for include: bismuth oxychloride (adds a pearlescent finish and reflects light), boron (absorbs oil), talc (gives powder a satiny feel), carmine (reddish dye), and ethylhexyl palmitate (adds viscosity to makeup). These ingredients may cause allergic reactions and care should be taken when applying any of them to the skin.

All mineral foundations offer some measure of sun protection -- with many sporting an SPF 15 or higher. However, don't be tempted to skip on the daily application of a traditional sunscreen. Find a product that will work in tandem with mineral powders. Finally, don't even consider sleeping in foundation or powder. Even with makeup that is pure, dirt and oil still accumulate on the skin throughout the day; so all makeup should be removed from the skin nightly.

The bottom line? Read the ingredient labels carefully before buying, and watch for signs of irritation just as with any new product.

Skincare-News.com covers all skincare and beauty topics from head to toe. Check out these latest articles:

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Drier Than the Sahara? Skin Care for Dry Skin

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Having dry skin comes with its own terms and conditions for skincare just like oily and combination skin types. For those who suffer from dry skin, there are plenty of skin care products specially made for this skin type and there are a number of skincare steps that can be taken to ensure that the skin is properly moisturized and nourished.

Are Your Hair Products Ruining Your Skin? How to Keep Your Skin Care Protected!

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It is possible for hair care products and skin care products to coexist. The challenge, however, lies within which products can be used in the hair that won't damage the skin. There are some hair care products that need to be pushed aside so that skincare doesn't get thrown off whack.

About SkinCare-News.com -- "Your Source for Intelligent Skin Care"

Skincare-News.com is the online source for consumers seeking intelligent beauty and skin care news, advice, tips and articles. Founded in 2005, SkinCare-News.com features articles, news items and frequently asked questions on skincare and beauty related issues. SkinCare-News.com is located in Sacramento, California, but receives visitors from all around the world. For more information, visit http://www.skincare-news.com.

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