Everything you need to know about mineral make-up

From loose powders to liquid foundations to tinted moisturiser, mineral make-up caters to pretty much every area of your make-up bag

Sarah Jones
Friday 26 January 2018 15:40 GMT
Comments
(Getty)

Your support helps us to tell the story

From reproductive rights to climate change to Big Tech, The Independent is on the ground when the story is developing. Whether it's investigating the financials of Elon Musk's pro-Trump PAC or producing our latest documentary, 'The A Word', which shines a light on the American women fighting for reproductive rights, we know how important it is to parse out the facts from the messaging.

At such a critical moment in US history, we need reporters on the ground. Your donation allows us to keep sending journalists to speak to both sides of the story.

The Independent is trusted by Americans across the entire political spectrum. And unlike many other quality news outlets, we choose not to lock Americans out of our reporting and analysis with paywalls. We believe quality journalism should be available to everyone, paid for by those who can afford it.

Your support makes all the difference.

Navigating the world of beauty can feel like a minefield at times, especially when it comes to grasping the laundry list of explicatory terms products are stamped with.

One of which being mineral make-up.

If you’re aware of it, it’s likely that you associate mineral make-up with cakey, chalky foundations that almost feel like you’re wearing a mask.

But, you’ll be pleased to hear that times have changed and nowadays mineral products are best known for their natural, breathable feel.

So, what exactly is it, how is it different to standard formulas and should you be using it? Here, we tell you everything you need to know.

Tarte Amazonian Clay Full Coverage Airbrush Foundation, £34.53, QVC
Tarte Amazonian Clay Full Coverage Airbrush Foundation, £34.53, QVC

What is mineral make-up?

Made from minerals such as mica, zinc and titanium oxide, which are then milled into a super-fine consistency and combined with pigment, mineral make-up has earned its stripes when it comes to natural ingredients.

In fact, the thing that really sets it apart from standard formulas is more about what it leaves out. When it comes to mineral make-up, you won’t find any oils, waxes, preservatives, synthetic fragrances or bulking agents.

Seamless Buffing Brush, £24, bareMinerals
Seamless Buffing Brush, £24, bareMinerals

What are the benefits of using it?

With limited ingredients people are often drawn to the idea that mineral make-up is more natural and, according to many industry experts, it’s also a lot kinder to sensitive skin. This is largely down to the fact that the products are preservative-free and non-comedogenic, meaning it doesn’t clog pores, which can lead to breakouts.

Mac Mineralise Moisture SPF 15 Foundation, £29.50, Mac Cosmetics
Mac Mineralise Moisture SPF 15 Foundation, £29.50, Mac Cosmetics

What kind of products are available?

From traditional loose powders to liquid foundations and tinted moisturisers, mineral make-up has come a long way and now caters to pretty much every area of your make-up bag.

If you have dry skin, a liquid formula might be best while oily complexions will benefit from powders – in this case remember to invest in a dense, short-handled brush for expert application.

Laura Mercier Mineral Powder, £31, Space NK
Laura Mercier Mineral Powder, £31, Space NK
Ever Matte Mineral Powder Compact, £27.50, Clarins
Ever Matte Mineral Powder Compact, £27.50, Clarins
Becca, Multi Tasking Perfecting Powder, £27, Cult Beauty
Becca, Multi Tasking Perfecting Powder, £27, Cult Beauty

Join our commenting forum

Join thought-provoking conversations, follow other Independent readers and see their replies

Comments

Thank you for registering

Please refresh the page or navigate to another page on the site to be automatically logged inPlease refresh your browser to be logged in