Mineral Beauty

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2006-06-02T01:25:00.000-07:00

Hi! Welcome to Mineral Beauty, your online resource for everything about Mineral Makeup! :)

Mineral makeup indeed, is on the rise, because of its affordability and impeccable quality. Its benefits to the skin, and to the self esteem, are endless.

If you're curious on what Mineral Makeup is, feel free to browse through ARTICLES written by the pros about this new revolutionary makeup. Reviews are on its way as we get writeups from real users of mineral makeup that want to share their happiness with it! :)

Personally, I have found Mineral Makeup my saving grace from my imperfect skin. Not only have I looked good with it, it has improved my confidence drastically. I don't even have to worry about getting breakouts from makeup. It's so pure, that I'm all relieved, cosmetically, and financially! :) Thank God, there is such a thing as Mineral Makeup! :)

So, don't hang on further! Start browsing! :) Tata! :)

Love, Juliet

Reviews

2006-06-02T01:23:00.000-07:00

Here are some of the Reviews submitted by our fellow Mineral Makeup Addicts :

*new* For Beauty Bliss Cosmetics :

Juliet~
Love your site! I just had to send you a review for my NEW brand of Mineral Makeup!
I've been a long-time BE gal and have just loved the stuff. HOWEVER, I recently had some bloodwork and a complete hair analysis done. My hair analysis showed that I was off-the-charts with bismuth levels. I couldn't understand why, as I never use antacids. A little internet research led me to www.beautyblisscosmetics.com where I read all about bismuth in most mineral makeups. A quick check of the ingredients to my beloved BE products, and almost every darned one of them contains bismuth.
Being curious, I thought I'd order some Beauty Bliss products in the wonderful and inexpensive sample sizes..........WOW, love the stuff! I was distressed about giving up me BE, but not any more! Beauty Bliss is much better and you also get much more product for your money! The foundations are so smooth and silky on your face (Cafe is my color), the Mattifier is an absolute dream to soak up the extra oil on my skin, and the Deep Bliss EASILY replaces my old veil and bisque from the other company.
There are so VERY many colors to choose from with the shadows, blushes and foundations. Every single thing I've tried keeps me saying, "Oh, I love this stuff!" With generous and inexpensive samples, there is no reason to order a wrong color. Shipping is pretty quick, too...about a week's turnaround time from order to doorstep.
Great stuff! Loving my new mineral makeup brand!
~Donna Herto

*new* For Beauty Bliss Cosmetics ( looks like we have a majority here! ) :

Hi Juliet,

Just wanted to share a very good experience I had with Beauty Bliss Cosmetics.
I have been trying different brands of mineral makeup, and was bothered by itching. So I started to surfing the Internet, and came upon Lynn Starner's Beauty Tips, while searching for information on Bismuth Oxychloride. She had great information on all the ingredients that are used in the making of mineral makeup. She does not use Bismuth Oxychloride in her products. I decided to try her makeup. I have no itching and the makeup feels great.

Happy Beauty Bliss Customer,

Gloria Laliberte

For Beauty Bliss Cosmetics :

"I am completely converted to her foundation, blush, correctors, eye shadows and mineral primer. I use Pure Bliss, Matte and regular foundation and a variety of her blushes. I have used liquid foundation primers in the past. The trouble with them is that if you don't wait long enough for them to absorb, they ball up on your face as you apply foundation. I am very happy with Pure Bliss. It evens out my skin tone (very important for us Rosesa ladies) and gives the skin a light glow. I apply either matte or regular foundation over the mineral primer and my skin looks great. And stays looking great all day!

I also enjoy mixing different colors of mineral foundation to get just the right color for my skin. This is a great plus for me, since I have had such a hard time finding the exact shade for my skin. With Mineral makeup, I can change the shade slightly to compensate for changes in my skin color during the year. Also, as we get older, our skin changes color, and it is nice to be able to tweak the foundation color without buying a whole new color.

I have a light complexion and I have found that Beauty Bliss Cosmetics are sheer enough for me to tailor my applications to fit my coloring. I look healthy, not made up.

As you can see, I am very excited about this make up line. I appreciate all the advice that Lynn freely offers to her customers. I really like the sample sizes. Samples save me money and allow me to experiment at a reasonable price.

Thanks for the opportunity to review Beauty Bliss cosmetics."

Sally Chapman

For Beauty Bliss Cosmetics :

"I just wanted to write a review on beauty bliss makeup. I love it. I have acne and scars and this makeup covers everything. I have tried other well know names in the mineral makeup but they did not cover my acne or scars as well and made me itch. I tried this brand and love it and for anyone considering it , they sell samples and I encou rage you to get them. Also try their finishing sealer pure bliss. I put this on over the minerals and it makes my skin look flawless. Really and I have acne. I have had comments about my skin when I wear this make up and they dont know I have acne. Cool!!! Since I have been wearing this makup my skin has been looking a lot better. My acne has heald up and I dont have breakouts as offten. Another bonus with mineral makup."

- April

Want to write a review about your favorite mineral makeup? Email us at the

themineralmakeup@yahoo.com

Stores

2006-06-02T01:20:00.001-07:00

Others

2006-06-02T01:20:00.000-07:00

=) wait!!!

Links

2006-06-02T01:19:00.001-07:00

Under Construction!

Brands

2006-06-02T01:19:00.000-07:00

Under Construction!

Credits

2006-06-02T00:56:00.000-07:00

I would like to thank the following who have made this site possible :

First and foremost, God, who has inspired me in more ways than ever,

Second, my family, who have always been my guiding light,

Third, my baby sister Sugar, who's only 12 years old, and made this layout (amazing, huh? :) )

Her site's http://sugarpuppy.thevanityaffair.com

Fourth, my muse of a friend, Vera, for inspiring me to go online and work it off,

Her site's http://www.musebay.com

..and of course, to the one who actually invented Mineral Makeup, whoever you are, you rock! :)

Contact

2006-06-02T00:36:00.000-07:00

If you want your advertise your products, have your products featured, or would want to submit a review about a certain brand of Mineral Makeup, please don't hesitate to drop me a line! :)

Credits : http://americanhealthyliving.com/

Email me at themineralmakeup@yahoo.com

Comments and suggestions are most welcome! :)

Love, Juliet

Articles

2006-06-01T20:55:00.000-07:00

Here are some articles written by experts in their field, and consultants knowledgeable with Mineral Makeup and cosmetics, generally :

Mineral Makeup - Natural Makeup for a Healthier Skin

Mineral Makeup - Natural Beauty

Mineral Makeup - A Natural Acne Cure?

Acne Sufferers Look Fabulous This Holiday Season with Mineral Makeup

Daily Dose of Healthy Makeup

Mineral Makeup - A Natural Alternative to Greasy Makeup

Mineral Makeup - A Natural Sunscreen

Mineral Makeup and Bismuth Oxychloride

Applying Mineral Makeup

Makeup Tips for Beautiful Skin

Mineral Cosmetics FAQS ( Facts and Questions )

Applying Mineral Makeup

2006-05-21T08:20:00.000-07:00

by Lynn Starner

It seems that for every type of mineral makeup there is also a different technique to apply it. Now, each company may have slight differences in their makeup that when it is applied a certain way will make it look or adhere better. However, there are some very basic guidelines to applying mineral makeup that will work with almost any brand you buy. Of course, it's always preferable that you develop your own personal style- your own touch. You know how you like your makeup to look, so practice, practice, practice until you get your application method how you like it. After all, it is your face.

Applying Foundation/ Finishing Powder
Foundation is admittedly the hardest to apply. You see some brands that say "swirl, tap, buff" and other brands that say "don’t!" What are you supposed to do?
The general rule of thumb is that if a mineral makeup contains bismuth oxychloride, you'll likely have to buff it in, and buff it in well, for the makeup to look its best. Generally a kabuki brush is used with this technique.

What's A Kabuki?
Good question! It's a very densely packed brush. It gives very heavy coverage because so much more makeup is left on the bristles after you tap. It's a good option for people who want a more opaque look or need heavier coverage. Usually with a kabuki you must buff the minerals into your skin, or else you'll look streaky, emphasize your pores, etc.
Buffing techniques, usually with a kabuki, are known to irritate sensitive skin. Even women without sensitive skin have problems with irritation. Remember, it's "swirl, tap, buff."

Fluffy Brushes
Using a fluffy face brush is the other popular way to apply mineral makeup. Better quality makeup is more pigmented, so using a kabuki is out of the question for most women. But a nice fluffy brush is just the ticket since a little makeup goes a long way. Whether you choose synthetic or animal hair brushes is up to you. Both can be equally good, depending on the quality. The same basic rules apply as with the kabuki- swirl your brush in the makeup, tap off the excess and the brush in a downward motion over your face. No need to buff. If you'd like more coverage, just repeat the steps again.
"Swirl, tap, brush." Almost the same words, but incredibly different effects.

Applying Foundation Wet
Wet? Yup. There are some gals who prefer the finish when mineral makeup is applied wet. There are a couple of ways to do it.
With A Brush - Mix your foundation and some water/moisturizer/lotion, etc. until a creamy consistency. Then dip your brush in it and apply in a downward motion. It will dry to a soft powder.

With A Puff/Sponge - You can either dampen your puff or sponge and dip it into your foundation and apply in a downward motion or mix the foundation with water/moisturizer/lotion and apply with a sponge. It will dry to a soft powder.
Finally, you can apply your foundation dry, then mist with a hydrosol or something similar and either use a brush or a sponge to smooth the moisture into the powder. Be sure to use a downward motion. Some gals even like to layer their makeup this way. Powder, mist, smooth. Powder, mist, smooth.

Why The Downward Motion?
Good question. Your pores and facial fuzz lay that way naturally. When you smooth your makeup that direction it makes a more "natural" look.
Other Facial Applications

For your other color cosmetics applied to face, here are the general outlines.

Concealer - Using a taklon concealor brush or an all-over eyeshadow brush, dip it into the concealer or foundation you're using, tap off most of the excess and apply directly to the area you want to conceal. Blend very, very well. If you're using an all over concealor, complexion enhancer, finishing powder, etc. use a fluffy face brush and swirl, tap and brush lightly in a downward motion.

Blush- Swirl, tap, brush in a slight curve from the apple of your cheek to your hairline. A nice fluffy blush brush works best.

Eyeshadow/ Eyeliner Application
This is the really fun stuff. You can apply mineral makeup wet or dry. Applying it wet is called "foiling" and makes the colors more bold and can even change them slightly in some cases.
For regular application, simply dip your brush into the color, tap off the excess and apply like you normally would.
For foiling, mix some minerals with water, hydrosol, eye primer, etc. until a creamy consistency. Then apply as you normally would. When dry you can buff with a dry brush to blend (but this may cause some of the mica to come away).
The foiling method works very well for eye lining. Colors that might be too bold to wear on your eye make great liner colors. Foiling them will help them last longer and show up better.
And that's it! These basic tips should help you apply mineral make up like a pro. Play around with it, develop your own style and technique, and most of all...Have Fun!

Lynn Starner is the proprietor of Beauty Bliss Mineral Cosmetics at http://www.beautyblisscosmetics.com as well as http://www.ultimate-skin-care-tips.com
Article Source: http://EzineArticles.com/?expert=Lynn_Starner

Acne Sufferers Look Fabulous This Holiday Season With Natural Mineral Makeup

2006-05-21T08:17:00.000-07:00

credit : www.advantagebodycare.com

by Jennifer Parker

The holidays are fast approaching, and for many acne sufferers they're dreaded because of the cofines of friends and family. With that many people close, it's hard to get excited when you know they'll get a close glimpse at your acne prone skin.

The natural inclination is to smear loads o concealer and foundation over blemishes to hide them from a close examination. But drugstore foundations that are manufactured by big brands such as CoverGirl, Maybelline, Loreal and others are ridden with oils, chemicals, preservatives and other pore clogging unmentionables.

Caking on these foundations can be more trouble than it's worth because they cause further blemishes and most times major break outs. That's not a scenario that most acne sufferers would associate with "happy" holidays. So what's the average sufferer to do to avoid this dreaded scenario?

Mineral Makeup is the most popular trend - recommended by dermatologists the world over and used by hollywood celebrities because of it's many benefits to acne sufferers. Mineral makeup is an all natural makeup that is made with minerals from the earth. The minerals are highly water proof so they help to dehydrate and thus kill off the bacteria in your pores that causes cystic acne.

Dermatologists are calling mineral Makeup the "skin care" makeup because it is so gentle to the skin that you can actually sleep in it. The mineral are ground so fine that they are too small to clog pores. instead they "lay" on the skin as little flakes that interlace to protect the skin from moisture getting in and feeding acne causing bacteria. The overlying flakes still allow the skin to "breathe" while shielding off this moisture.

The two primary ingredients in mineral makeup are Zinc Oxide and Titanium Dioxide. If you read makeup labels then you probably recognize these two minerals. That's because they appear in virtually every sunblock on the market for their full range UV sunblocking abilities. That's right, Mineral Makeup is a natural sunblock as well, which means all that sunlight reflecting off the snow as you build snowmen and go sleding this holiday season is blocked by your mineral makeup. Sumblock is just as important to your skin health in the winter as it is in the summer.

And Mineral Makeup looks fabulous when you wear it. It is delivered to you in powder form and goes on very smoothly, it is so light weight that many people forget they are wearing it. This light weight quality helps it to blend seamlessly into the skin for a beautiful natural look.
Considering the many benefits of using mineral makeup could really help to turn your holidays into the "happy" holidays we all dream of.

Look fabulous this holiday season with our Natural Mineral Makeup Complete 9 Piece Starter Kit...
Article Source: http://EzineArticles.com/?expert=Jennifer_Parker

Mineral Makeup a Natural Acne Cure?

2006-05-21T08:15:00.000-07:00

by : Jennifer Parker

Mineral makeup may offer new hope for acne sufferers. Because mineral makeup has several unique qualities not offered in any other makeup product that make it ideal for helping cure acne.

To understand how mineral makeup can cure your acne it is necissary to look at the seven causes of acne:

1. Genetics. Sadly, nothing can change your genetics. If your parents had acne as teenagers there is a good chance that you will too.

2. Hormones. During adolesence, hormones called androgens become active and stimulate oil glands in your skin, increasing oil production. This, in turn, clogs pores, causing pimples and blackheads.

3. Stress. Although stress doesn't actually cause acne, it can add to the problem by affecting hormones.

4. Diet. Many times what you eat has been shown to cause acne. Most of the time acne is an adverse reaction your body has to a food allergy.

5. Washing your face too often. This can irritate the skin making acne worse.

6. Medications. Many medications can cause acne or make an existing condition worse. Read labels or talk to your paharmacist to find out if acne is a side effect.

7. Using greasy skin care products and oily cosmetics. Most makeup falls into this category.

While these are the causes of acne it is important to remember that acne is ultimately a result of bacteria growing in clogged pores. Bacteria is organic and thus cannot grow or multiply without the presence of water. This is where mineral makeup plays an almost magical role in curing acne.

Mineral makeup is made of natural minerals derived from the earth, these minerals are not only inorganic but they are also extremely resistant to water. They actually act as a shield on your face keeping bacteria feeding moisture away from your pores. Mineral makeup is not soluable in water so even if you put water directly on your face the minerals will not be absorbed and the water cannot pass through.

Mineral makeup does not clog pores either. Because it is so finely milled during production, the granules are much smaller than your pores. This not only prevents acne from forming, but makes the makeup extremely easy to blend into the skin with a very flawless look and conceals problem areas very well. If you suffer from a break out the finely milled minerals are very effective as disguising it.

Because of these and other unique qualities mineral makeup is known througout the world as the skin care makeup and recommended to acne sufferers by dermatologists. Ultimately, it does not matter what the cause of your acne is, without water to feed the bacteria, and something to clog the pores and hold that moisture in acne cannot form or worsen. If you suffer from acne, mineral makeup may end up being your best friend.

Find more Mineral Makeup information at http://www.bare-mineral-makeup.info. Get the facts, ingredients, and benefits as well as advice about which brands are the best.
Article Source: http://EzineArticles.com/?expert=Jennifer_Parker

Makeup Tips for Beautiful Skin

2006-05-21T07:53:00.000-07:00

by David Maillie

Credit : Jane Iredale Cosmetics

General Make up Tips:

Choose your eye make up to fit your lifestyle or the event you are attending. Wear less during the day and a little more for night time. Most people look better in softer, neutral colors, rather than dark, harsh tones. In general, lighter colors make the eyes appear larger, while darker colors can make them look small. Dark colors don’t look good if you have fair skin. Eye shadow comes in both powder and cream formulas. Creams generally give a bolder color than powders. These must be applied carefully to avoid creasing. Apply foundation and powder first and then eye shadow.

Select a foundation that matches your skin tone and is appropriate for your skin type. If you tend to break out, look for oil free, non comedogenic cosmetics. Apply moisturizer before your foundation for a smoother look. Use a sponge and apply foundation in a downward motion from the forehead down to the chin. If you have blemishes or dark circles, apply concealer after the foundation. Brush on loose powder to set. Apply powder using a large brush in the same downward motion.

Choose a blusher that is suited to your skin tone. Choose lighter colors for a fair complexion and darker tones for dark or tanned skin. Place two fingers to the side of your nose. Start your application at the second finger and move up toward the ear line. Smile to show the apples of your cheeks and help with application.

Lipstick should also match your skin tone. Use a lip moisturizer regularly to keep your lips smooth and moist. Apply foundation and powder before lip cosmetics. Line the lips with a pencil and then apply lipstick. Use a lip brush for best coverage. Blot the color with a tissue and re apply for best results.

Mascara is available in a variety of formulas: waterproof, thickening and smudge proof. Choose a color that is appropriate for your skin type. Curl the lashes first and then begin to apply mascara. Look up and apply in an upward motion. Reapply is small amounts to avoid clumping. Don’t pump the brush into the container, as this will break the bristles on the brush and shorten the life of this product.

Caring for Make up Tips:

Replace your cosmetics as products expire. Blush and powder can be kept for 2 years. Foundation, lipstick and eyeshadow should be replaced every year. Mascara has the shortest shelf life and should be thrown away after 2 months.

Use brushes and sponges to apply make up. Wash these monthly with warm water and an antibacterial soap. Allow brushes to dry completely before you use them again.
Store all make up in a cool, dry place.

Keep cosmetics out of the sunlight and away from excessive heat or moisture.

Proper care and application is important. This helps you not only look better, but helps prevent the skin from breaking out.

Select high quality make up, especially if you are prone to acne. Natural products that don’t contain a lot of chemicals, dyes and perfumes are best for all skin, but especially acne prone. The ingredients in many cosmetics irritate acne prone skin. Mineral make up is an excellent choice, as it contains no chemicals or any ingredients that can irritate the skin.

Proper skin care is essential. Always remove your make up before going to bed. Wash the skin with a mild cleanser made for your skin type and moisturize the skin. Good skin care can help prevent cosmetics from clogging your pores. If this happens, consider an occasional facial peel to unclog the pores and treat acne. Esthetician’s Choice is an excellent peel. Originally only available through dermatologists or salons, it is now available for home use. Visit www.bestskinpeel.com for more information on this amazing product and to order.

David Maillie is a chemist with over 12 years experience in biochemical research and clynical analysis. He is an alumni of Cornell University and specializes in biochemical synthesis for public, private, and governmental interests. He can be reached at M.D. Wholesale: http://www.bestskinpeel.com
Article Source: http://EzineArticles.com/?expert=David_Maillie

Daily dose of healthy makeup

2006-05-21T07:49:00.000-07:00

By Mina Dimakis-Lev

Some makeup seems to travel at the speed of light; you put it on and the next thing you notice it's on your white blouse. Or maybe you're one who doesn't care if it's oil free,hypoallergenic or free from any perservatives, but for some reason all brands of makeup seem to irritate your sensitive skin. Your problem maybe solved with mineral makeup. Mineral makeup does not contain perfume, talc, chemical dyes and chemical perservatives or even perfume. Since mineral makeup lacks synthetic irritants it is less likely that will irritate your skin and it will last all day. It will also protect skin from natural sunlight. Mineral makeup is effective at blocking both UVA and UVB rays.

Mina Dimakis-Lev is an expert in the skincare industry and the art of makeup. Her work and articles can be seen at www.BeautyImagebyMina.com
Article Source: http://EzineArticles.com/?expert=Mina_Dimakis-Lev

Mineral Makeup - Natural Makeup for a Healthier Skin

2006-05-20T10:54:00.000-07:00

by Dr. Bianca Tavares

As a doctor I know what damage some traditional makeup products can cause the skin if worn over time for prolonged periods without adequate cleansing. So the advent of mineral makeup to the cosmetic counters is a major breakthrough in healthy living and skincare.Mineral cosmetics have their basis in ground-up minerals, including various metal ores and iron oxide. Being natural, they are allergen-free and contain no chemical dyes, added preservatives, fillers, perfumes, oils or talc - or other ingredients commonly found in traditional makeup products.Mineral makeup contains only pure mineral pigments in concentrated form. Due to their concentration they perform the functions of concealer, foundation and powder - and incredibly all in a single application which binds to the skin so well that very little touch-up is required as the day progresses.After mineral makeup is first applied- and this can be done very simply with a brush - the skin might appear a little powdery, but after a short time you will find that it is taken up very well by the natural oils within the skin.And incredibly , you'll find that by nighttime your face will look just as fresh as it did in the morning when the makeup was first applied , without shine or streaks.Mineral makeup's purity means that it works well with most skin types and you will find that it adds a day-long youthful sheen to your skin. But it also possesses several other benefits:

SUNSCREEN

Mineral foundation powders also contain zinc oxide and titanium dioxide that act as a reflective coating which blocks the harmful effects of the sun. In addition natural forms of Vitamins A and E are regularly added which have anti-oxidant benefits and also help prevent photo aging of the skin.

ANTI-ALLERGY
Since synthetic dyes, perfumes and preservatives are avoided in the composition of mineral makeup, there is little risk of skin sensitivity to the ingredients, resulting in a considerably reduced risk of longer-term allergic reactions.

EASY APPLICATION

Mineral makeup can be applied quickly and easily with a brush or sponge, and when applied to clean moisturized skin, it doesn't smear or run. To immediately do away with the initial powdery effect, all you need to do is mist your face lightly even with ordinary water.

VERSATILITY

Due to it's day-long enduring qualities, mineral makeup is not only ideal for those with hectic lifestyles, but it has also found favor in the film and tv industries. Plus, it is often provides a great solution for many with existing skin problems, such as those caused by burns.Now let's take a look at the cost. If you are used to cosmetic counter prices, you aren't going to be totally shocked. However, you should also consider the savings you can make by using mineral makeup. What would you normally put on your face before venturing out in the morning? After a moisturizer, how about a primer? Then there are concealers, foundation, blusher, creams, powder...

However when using mineral makeup, after using a moisturizer, you'll find that many products which were once a part of your daily regimen, now become totally redundant. So the overall savings could be quite significant. And think about the time saving too ! Modern mineral makeup represents a major advance not only in cosmetics but also in skincare and your overall well-being.

Article Source: http://www.articledashboard.com

BY DR. BIANCA TAVARES Dr. Tavares is a medical consultant with wide-ranging experience and interests in both traditional and complementary medicine and health care. She has a particular passion for disseminating quality medical information to the people who matter – the patients – and acts in an advisory capacity to numerous journals and health related web sites. Her writing about mineral makeup can be found regularly at Makeup Girl’s Makeup Tips. This article is copyright by Dr Bianca Tavares. It can be reprinted freely online as long as the entire article and this resource box are included.

Mineral Cosmetic FAQs

2006-05-20T10:43:00.000-07:00

by Lynn Starner

When you're deciding whether or not to use mineral cosmetics you probably have a lot of questions. After all the hype, you're left wondering "Are they really that good?" Sure, there are lots of positive things being said about mineral makeup right now, but before you invest in it you should make sure all your questions are answered.

These are common questions people ask before choosing to buying any mineral cosmetic brand.

Is it waterproof?
No, it is not. It is water resistant. This means that mineral cosmetics hold up well in moisture. Whether you get damp from sweating or being in the rain, your mineral makeup should hold up. Simply dab the excess water off, instead of rubbing it off.

Is it hard to remove?
No, it isn"t hard to remove. Using any type of facial cleanser, cold cream, eye makeup remover, etc.- even soap and water- will remove it very effectively.

How can it last all day and still be easy to remove?
The basic properties of mineral makeup (titanium dioxide and iron oxides) have great adhesion properties. This means they bind well to the skin. There are no oils or waxes, which helps them to stay on longer. Finally, each ingredient is water- soluble. This makes them easy to remove, and is why they are not waterproof.

Does it really look natural?
Yes. It won't leave that tell-tale "mask" on your skin like a liquid foundation. Plus you can easily mix colors to give yourself the best match to your natural skin, which helps it look better.

What makes it matte?
A matte mineral cosmetic will not have any mica in it. Mica adds the sparkle, shimmer, interference, etc. Some micas even give makeup more depth so that it is more compatible to different skintones. Without it, the mineral cosmetic can look really flat, like paint.

Isn't serecite a mica?
Yes, it is colorless mica. It adds a little more "slip" to the makeup, giving it a silkier feel. It has a very low shimmer to it and it becomes unnoticeable when mixed into the makeup.

Will it clog my pores?
No it won't. It is considered non-comedogenic and safe for women with sensitive skin. IT is lacking the oils and parabens associated with clogged pores.

Will it affect my acne?
It shouldn't. Most mineral cosmetic brands are non-acnegenic, which means they won't irritate acne-prone skin. In fact, many women with acne that use mineral makeup see their faces clear up after using it consistently for awhile. Those that do have trouble can usually attribute it to the "buffing", cornstarch/rice powder (which is a food product for bacteria), or bismuth oxychloride. Finding a brand free of these ingredients will ensure the best possible chance of not irritating your acne.

Is it ok for oily/dry skin?
It is highly recommended for oily skin because of its intrinsic oil-absorbing properties. It tends to work very well on oily skin. Dry skin can be more problematic because of all those drying ingredients. However, there are formulations out there specifically for dry skin, so those will probably work best.

Which brand is the best?
Choosing a mineral cosmetic company depends on what you are looking for. Many women focus on ingredients, color selection, quantity vs. price and customer service. You know what you want, so the best idea is to base your choice on your priorities.

Are Ebay brands good?
This is a bit tricky. Yes and no. Some are and some aren't. Unfortunately, many people selling on Ebay under their own brand are simply resellers of someone else’s wholesale brand. It's called a "private label" They buy someone else's products at a reduced price because they're buying in bulk and put their stickers on it. The problem with this is that they don't know anything about the ingredients or how to help their customers make an appropriate match. But there are also some reputable sellers on Ebay. Buying off Ebay depends solely on your personal preference.
Now you have the information to decide if mineral makeup is for you and how to pick a brand that will meet your needs.

Mineral Makeup and Bismuth Oxychloride

2006-05-20T10:41:00.000-07:00

by Lynn Starner

Mineral makeup is becoming ever popular as we become more and more conscious of what we are putting onto our skin and bodies. Because of this increased awareness people are asking more questions. And one of the most popular questions is about the ingredient bismuth oxychloride. Women want to know what it is and why it is in so many brands of mineral cosmetics.

There are a lot of almost facts and half- truths flying around out there. In this article we'll learn what bismuth oxychloride is, where it comes from, why it is used, and if makeup with it as an ingredient is a good choice for you.

Bismuth is the by-product of lead and copper refining, as well as other metals to a smaller degree. Bismuth occurs very rarely in nature. It is on the periodic table of elements under the symbol Bi at atomic number 83. It is very heavy and chemically resembles arsenic and antimony. It has a whitish/iridescent hue and has a very high shine property to it. Of all the heavy metals it is the only non-toxic. Bimsuth is a carrier for fuel in nuclear reactors. Bismuth components are used in everything from detection work, to making acrylic fibers, to safety devices in fire detection and extinguishing items, soldering, magnets and medicine as well as cosmetics. Because it is a by-product of lead refining, bismuth oxychloride should be lead free when companies begin using it in their cosmetics.

Companies use this in their cosmetics because it is cheap to buy and is an inexpensive filler. It does have binding qualities, so the makeup will "stick" to your skin, so to speak. There are other products that are just as effective at adhesion, and are better for your skin. Because of its molecular make up, it is often viewed as shiny or pearlescent. It is often sold in these two varieties. This makes it highly refractive, which is something companies want. Refraction will camouflage fine lines, wrinkles and discolorations. If you use a brand with bismuth oxychloride you'll notice a shiny look after applying the makeup. Not like oiliness, but almost shimmery. That's the bismuth oxychloride.

It's a very heavy element, which makes it difficult for many people to wear. It has to be forced into the pores (hence the buffing technique) otherwise it is capable of sliding off the wearer's face. The heaviness can result in clogged pores or irritated skin. Bismuth oxychloride often feels silky and not rough when rubbed between the fingers. Mineral makeup companies that do not use it have a lighter feeling makeup that usually blends into the skin better and with less effort.

Its molecular makeup is a crystalline shape, which may be a cause of the itchiness some women get when they wear it. Many women experience noticeable itching when they sweat. Don't forget it is also kin to arsenic, chemically. Your body will reject things it does not like, and if you'll get sick from ingesting arsenic, it would make sense that your skin would get irritated from having arsenic forced into it.

So, if you find you're experiencing some problems with your current mineral makeup and it contains bismuth oxychloride, you may want to consider switching brands. Many women experience skin irritation when using mineral makeup and don't know why. It's likely that bismuth oxychloride is the reason.

Lynn is the proprietor of Beauty Bliss Mineral Cosmetics at http://www.beautyblisscosmetics.com as well as http://www.ultimate-skin-care-tips.com
Article Source: http://EzineArticles.com/?expert=Lynn_Starner

Mineral Makeup - Natural Beauty

2006-05-20T10:34:00.000-07:00

by Lynn Starner

As we become more aware of our environment and more aware of the products that we are putting into and onto our bodies, natural and homeopathic products are taking the cosmetic industry by storm.

It's likely you've noticed new skincare and cosmetic companies popping up with "all natural" and 'organic' products. Of course, just because they say they are, doesn't necessarily make it true. That is where consumer education comes in, and why it is so important.

The title of this article is "Mineral Makeup". After learning what mineral makeup is, what products go into it, and what its benefits are, you can decide if this is the right choice for you.

What Is Mineral Makeup?

Mineral makeup is designed from all naturally occurring products. It is often recommended by dermatologists to women with sensitive skin, rosacea, post operative, laser and other procedures because of its intrinsic skin soothing and anti-inflammatory properties. It is a powder makeup of finely milled minerals. It can provide very sheer or very opaque coverage, depending on the formulation and application. However, it still allows natural skin radiance to show through, so you don't get the dreaded "mask" look. It is typically free of fragrance and preservatives. Minerals cannot feed bacteria, so there is no danger of spoilage, thus it needs no preservatives. It does not go bad. It is very good for oily skin because it has several oil- absorbing components.

It is usually applied with a brush, and is typically shown to be "buffed" into the skin. This technique forces the makeup into your pores, which is never a good thing. A technique that works with better quality mineral makeup (which we'll discuss later) is to "dust" the makeup on, instead of "buffing" it. If a brush irritates your skin, you can also use a non-latex or flocked sponge. Application can be done either wet or dry.

What Are The Ingredients?

This is the most important part. Learning what is in your makeup will give you the ability to choose what will meet your needs best. These are the ingredients you will most likely come across.

-Titanium Dioxide -A white natural sunscreen and anti-inflammatory agent. It is highly reflect, with only a diamond being higher, and thus minimizes fine lines and some skin discolorations.

- Zinc Oxide- A natural sunscreen providing broad spectrum UVA/UVB protection.

- Sericite- A colorless mica that can be used to cut the opacity of Titanium Dioxide and also works as an oil absorber.

- Cornstarch/ Rice Powder- Cosmetic grade- An oil humectant (draws oil out of the pores). Can make acne worse as it is a source of food for bacteria.

-Kaolin Clay- Natural oil-absorption.

- Mica- Natural "glitter". Provides shimmer and sparkle.

- Iron Oxides- Natural pigment- very opaque. Used for tinting cosmetics.

Ingredients To Avoid

These ingredients are also common, but can cause problems so are best to avoid.

-Talc/ Various Powders- Common fillers- can cause respiratory problems.
-FD&C Dyes- Derived from coal tar.

-Bismuth Oxychloride- Known skin irritant- causes itching, rashes and breakouts. Especially
prevalent when the wearer sweats.
-Ferric Ferrocyanide- Controversial because of its suspected toxicity.
-Carmine- Crushed beetles.

What Brand Should I Buy?
Well, if you're familiar with mineral makeup, it's likely you've seen the infomercials. After further research you'll find these companies use controversial ingredients, and charge quite a bit for their products.

There are several good mineral makeup companies out there that provide a much better product at a more affordable price, as well as a superior customer experience.

They also offer samples, which the larger companies do not. You'll get to try the makeup (unlike in the drugstore!) for a fraction of the cost before you buy it. They don't have expensive advertising and packaging to pay for, so the savings are often passed on to you.

Lynn is the proprietor of Beauty Bliss Mineral Cosmetics at http://www.beautyblisscosmetics as well as http://www.ultimate-skin-care-tips.com
Article Source: http://EzineArticles.com/?expert=Lynn_Starner

Mineral Makeup: A Natural Sunscreen

2006-05-20T10:30:00.000-07:00

By Jennifer Parker

Credit : www.cpsdocs.com

Mineral makeup is the thing to wear this summer if you're looking for an all natural makeup with safe and effective sunscreen. The fact is that two of the main ingredients in mineral makeup are natural sunscreens that not only reflect light but protect your skin from harmful and cancer causing UV rays.

The ingredients, Titanium dioxide and Zinc oxide, both natural and very safe minerals are found in almost every sunscreen on the market. Titanium dioxide is so effective because of it's ability to reflect light. It has one of the highest refractive indexes in the world at (n=2.4). In fact this refractive index is surpassed by only one other mineral in the world-diamond.

Titanium dioxide is also inorganic so it keeps the skin from gathering moisture that could feed bacteria and cause or worsen acne. This is great news for acne sufferers looking for an effective makeup and sunscreen product that won't worsen their condition.

The second natural sunscreen mineral in mineral makeup is zinc oxide. Zinc oxide was not chosen as an ingredient because of it's sunscreen qualities however, it was chosen for it's vast array of colors and indeed is elimental in providing a large array of colors for makeup artists to work with when formulating different foundaitons, blushes, and eyeshadows.

Zinc oxide is a natural UV blocker just as titanium dioxide is. It also has the same very water resistant quality of titanium dioxide and wards of bacteria. Zinc oxide is as widely used in sunscreen lotions as titanium dioxide. These two elements together give most brands of mineral makeup an spf of 15.

Sure, almost any sunscreen touting makeup you buy has these minerals in it, so what's the big deal? For acne and rosescea sufferers, believe me it's a big deal. Mineral makeup is known world wide as the skin care makeup because no matter what skin care conditions you may suffer from it is a makeup that is totally safe for your skin. Recommended around the world by dermatologists and plastic surgeons it is actually so pure that you can sleep in it without worrying about acne flair ups or any adverse reaction.

Talc based makeups, although they may contain these two natural sunscreen minerals also have other additives such as dies, chemicals and oils. Talc itself is organic and can help feed bacteria which worsens acne and rosascea. Almost all makeup on the market is talc based. Another drastic difference is the way mineral makeup is processed and worn.

Minerals used in the makeup are finely milled until they are too fine to clog pores. Talc is not milled this fine and it can clog pores worsening or causing skin problems. If you're looking for a sunscreen makeup that is natural and safe mineral makeup is definately the way to go.

Find more Mineral Makeup information at http://www.bare-mineral-makeup.info Get the facts, ingredients, and benefits as well as advice about which brands are the best.
Article Source: http://EzineArticles.com/?expert=Jennifer_Parker

Natural Mineral Makeup, a Natural Alternative to Greasy Makeup

2006-05-20T10:26:00.000-07:00

By Jennifer Parker

Credit (pic) : www.mineralogie.com

Mineral Makeup is a natural alternative to acne causing and pore clogging oil based makeups that dominate the market. Cosmetics are big business, but just because something costs more doesn't mean it's better for your skin. Every liquid you put on your skin is absorbed into the skin and goes directly into the blood stream. Think about that next time you pull out your liquid foundation and apply it to your skin.

The process by which a substance is absorbed into the blood via the skin is called transdermal delivery. It is one of the fastest ways to get something into the blood in a concentrated form. Many drugs are delivered by applying a skin creme or skin patch that contains that drug to areas of the skin that absorb it readily. The face is one of those places.

Transdermal delivery is so effective in fact that many drug companies offer their drugs in some kind of creme or patch for an effective means of dispensing the drug into the blood without getting a shot or taking a pill. It actually takes the body longer to absorb something through the digestive system and get that substance into the blood than it does to apply it directly to the skin. This is something you need to consider when you buy makeup. Read the labels carefully, and if you aren't interested in putting dies, chemicals and preservatives into your blood you may want to consider an alternative form of makeup.

Oil and other chemicals, dies and preservatives not only absorb into your skin, but they also clog your pores, which then build up sebum under the clog and cause acne. Oil based makeups are simply not good for your skin in any way. Naturall many people have turned to mineral makeup as a safe and natural alternative to commercial makeup. Why?

First mineral makeup is made from all natural minerals that come from the earth. Most of them are a combination of the minerals mica, titanium dioxide, and zinc oxide. Titanium dioxide and zinc oxide are natural sun blocking agents and are used in almost every over the counter sun block lotion you buy. They are also water proof so the staying power of mineral makeup is usually all day with little or no touch up needed.

The minerals used to make the makeup are very finely milled into a powder that is so fine that it blends very well into the skin and looks very natural. The vast range of colors availiable in the minerals make it possible for mineral makeup manufacturers to offer many different colors. Every concievable color has been made from blush, eyeshadows, lipsticks, and foundation in hundreds of shades. It's easy to buy two or three different foundation shades and blend them for a custom color. The minerals blend very easily together.

The minerals are also milled so fine that they won't clog your pores, and if some of them do manage to get into the blood stream, remember they're all natural and they're minerals. They are completely safe for the body. Many doctors and dermatologists have proclaimed mineral makeup as the skin care makeup because it is so healthy for the skin and does not aggrivate acne and it covers blemishes, acne, large pores, and scars very effectively.

If you're interested in a safe and natural alternative to chemical, oil and preservative laden makeup, minerals may be something for you to look in to.

Find more Natural Mineral Makeup information at http://www.bare-mineral-makeup.info. Get the facts, ingredients, and benefits as well as advice about which brands are the best.
Article Source: http://EzineArticles.com/?expert=Jennifer_Parker