Mineral Makeup: Are these new cosmetics right for you? (Keyword: Mineral Makeup)
Women around the world have been applying makeup to their faces for thousands of years. Mineral foundations are a concealer, foundation and multi-purpose powder all-in-one.Mineral makeup by Mineral secrets is a very different cosmetic. Mineral makeup is one of the fastest growing trends in the cosmetics industry in recent years. It's versatility, light-weight feel, ease of use, and non-comedogenic properties appeal to a new wave of cosmetic wearers who are demanding more natural choices for their skincare regime. The best qualities of mineral makeup are the following: a light-weight feel with the option of layering for more coverage as needed, the simplicity of an all-in-one concealer and foundation.
Mineral makeup can cause problems the same as any other put together can cause problems. Mineral makeup does not irritant skin conditions like rosacea, post laser or acne like other products can. Mineral Secrets mineral cosmetics will help you achieve what you want with makeup! A four in one cosmetic (sun screen, concealer, base, powder) mineral makeup saves you money, time, and is actually good for your skin. A pure mineral makeup is combined with inorganic pigments to achieve the desired color. None of the artificial colors, preservatives or fragrances that one may find in chemical based makeup should be present. Other possible benefits of mineral makeup may include mineral based makeup may also act as a natural sunscreen.
If the powder particles don't penetrate the skin, then pure mineral makeup is less likely to be inflammatory or otherwise irritate sensitive skin. When using mineral makeup, it is best to start with a clean slate. Using Herbs of Grace all natural handmade soaps or facial cleansers will get you off to a great start.Herbs of grace Powder/Foundation can also be used to set your makeup after you've applied eyeshadow, blush and lipstick. Tap a very small amount of powder into the lid of your container, and as before, use your Kabuki brush to apply a very sheer layer of powder over your entire face and neck. For eye shadow, dip the eye shadow brush of your choice, tap off excess, and apply sparingly. Choose a lighter color to highlight under the brow area, and a darker color in the crease as a shader.
Mineral Makeup Tips
1. Mineral make up is available in forms of foundations and loose powder.
2. Choose a darker shade of Herbs of Grace Colors for lining the eye.
3. To create a liquid liner, use the same technique used with the eyeliner above.
4. Don't apply the liner on a closed eye--gently pull the outer corner of the eye sideways.
5. Use the same techniques for filling in lip color as used with the lip liner.
6. Using your chosen shade of Color, tap a small amount of powder into the container lid.
7. Use clear nail polish and simply dip the nail polish brush into the desired Herbs of Grace Color and apply to nails.
8. Use a darker base as a contour or bronzer. This makes the skin come alive and also increases the sun protection

Read more on Mineral Makeup at www.free-makeup-tips.com. Get to know latest Beauty Makeup Tips also.

• 0 comments »

Over the past few years, mineral makeup has been gaining popularity among dermatologists, make-up artists, and skincare professionals. Although many may think that mineral make-up is a novelty in the beauty industry, its roots actually date back to ancient times as many cultures throughout history have used naturally "colored earth" to beautify the skin. Makeup was very much a ritual for Egyptian women since they believed that one's beauty brought them closer to the Gods. Ancient Egyptian women worked with pure minerals for pigment and color. They pulverized and mixed various copper based minerals such as malachite, carbon and manganese oxides to create colored powders used for face powders or eye colors.
Today, science has made it possible to create mineral alternatives to the traditional synthetic, chemical laden cosmetics that were unhealthy for the skin. They were full of cosmetic preservatives, additives, and harsh ingredients that contributed to skin irritation and allergies, rosacea, pore clogging, and inevitably, acneic lesions and cysts. Because of recent evidence of mineral makeup's advantages, more and more women have converted to it from traditional oil-based makeup.
So what are the benefits of mineral makeup?
Mineral makeup is free from unnecessary and potentially harmful ingredients found in many commercial brands such as preservatives (parabens), talc, synthetic chemicals and various fillers.
Mineral cosmetics use skin-friendly minerals such titanium dioxide, iron oxides, and mica powder. Artificial dyes are replaced by pure iron oxides that are naturally pigmented. Be sure to check the ingredients list before purchasing a brand. Pure mineral makeup does not contain talc or bismuth, which are known to clog pores.
Mineral makeup offers excellent broad spectrum protection from the harmful UV rays and free radicals.
The natural pigments of mineral cosmetics are achieved through pure iron oxides, which act to absorb heat. Mineral makeup also contains zinc oxide and titanium dioxide. These ingredients may sound familiar because they are the active ingredients of sunscreens. Together, these ingredients can offer UV protection from the sun and from the effects of aging.
Mineral makeup provides help to calm and soothe the skin
The naturally gentle composition of mineral makeup means that these cosmetics are often able to be tolerated by those who have skin allergies, eczema or extremely sensitive skin. Many skincare professionals recommend using mineral makeup for post-procedure treatments such as chemical peels, microdermabrasion, and laser resurfacing to not only effectively camouflage redness and bruising, but also to calm cutaneous insult because of its healing and nourishing properties.
Mineral makeup is appropriate for all skin types and all ages
It absorbs excess oil on contact with oily skin, and mattes shiny areas. In mature skin lines and wrinkles are minimized, and pore sizes reduced due to its reflective properties. It helps to hydrate dry skin, and helps to calm and soothe sensitive skin. With proper mixing of pigments, blemishes, minor acne scars, broken capillaries, and other skin imperfections are easily covered to result in an even skin tone, youthful glow, and natural look.
Mineral makeup provides long-lasting and flawless coverage
Since it absorbs the excess oils it to stays in place all day long, and doesn't cake or crease. I always go by the adage that a little bit goes a long way, because not much is needed to achieve even coverage. Many mineral makeup formulations are also highly water resistant (not water-proof), and can withstand gym sessions or a day at the beach without fail.
Jane Iredale (JaneIredale.com)
My favorite mineral brand, also known as "the skincare makeup" The foundation powders blend very easily and have a soft, velvety, almost creamy finish. It offers a broad range of foundation colors that blend so beautifully that many people think I'm not wearing any makeup. Jane Iredale also offers liquid mineral foundations for those who prefer it to loose or pressed powder. Many skincare and dermatologic clinics carry this brand because it offers palettes geared specifically at camouflaging skin insults (such as bruising, needle-pricks, redness) caused by minimally invasive procedures.
ColoreScience (Colorescience.com)
My first introduction to mineral makeup was ColoreScience. The foundation and powdered sunscreens are housed in retractable cases with a natural goat-hair brush applicator. Although I find that the foundations have a limited range of skin tones that are a little difficult to blend, the Sunforgettable powdered suncreens are sheer enough to blend into almost any skin tone. Their formulation is very water-resistant, which held up its weight after 2 hours of sweating at the gym. However, to achieve that longevity, you have to set the makeup with a fine mist or else have to frequently reapply. And although the packaging is compact and convenient to keep in any purse, I sometimes felt it dispensed much more product than I needed. Along with the Sunforgettable powdered sunscreen, my other favorite Colorescience product is the corrector palette that works wonders in covering any flaw, be it a scar, bruise, or pimple.
Youngblood (Ybskin.com)
Also an good line of mineral cosmetics, but I found that they had a limited range of colors for medium, olive toned skin like mine. They have a much broader range of foundation colors for fairer skin tones.
Bare Minerals (Bareescentuals.com)
Bare Minerals is probably the most commercial and popularized mineral makeup in today's market. For many who haven't tried or even heard of mineral makeup before, Bare Minerals is probably the reason they now know mineral makeup exists. Although they do carry a variety of foundation colors, I found that it made my skin appeared a bit muddy, especially with the medium tan. In order to achieve my exact skin color, I had to "Swirl, tap, and buff" 3 different colors, which took a much longer time than I had anticipated. I also felt that I needed to "set" the makeup with a mist in order to keep it on longer, a feature in JaneIredale's makeup that I felt I didn't have to do.

• 0 comments »

They call them mineral make up. They call them pure. They say they have only "good things" in them. Is this true? And how do they compare in price? Let's compare apples to apples. I've listed all the well know brands of mineral cosmetics, compared their ingredients, their cost, and their actual cost per gram. Although each company offers several products such as foundations, blushes, eye shadows, etc, I've chosen the most popular - foundations - as a basis of comparison. I've stacked them against Purely Cosmetics to see how each holds up against the other.
Any ingredient marked in bold contains a non-pure, non-earth mineral. Some even worse: parabens are preservatives that are thought to be linked to breast cancer and early aging of the skin. Bismuth oxychloride is a filler that is a by-product of lead and copper processing and is irritating to the skin.
This is lengthy, but you'll find some real eye openers. Your favorite mineral makeup is most likely listed here, as I've compared Bare Escentuals, Jane Iredale, GLO Minerals, Sheer Cover, Laura Mercier, Youngblood, PUR Minerals, L'Oreal, and Neutragena to Purely Cosmetics.
NOTE ABOUT MICRONIZED PARTICLES: The use of micronized titanium dioxide is controversial. Some research indicates that micro-size particles do stay on the surface of the skin and do not enter the bloodstream, while others question the long-term safety of using nanoparticles. Studies have shown that it is possible for micronized titanium dioxide particles to penetrate cells and eventually lead to DNA damage following sun exposure. Asthmatics and others with repiratory problems should be cautioned about using loose powders with micronized ingredients as they are easily airborne. Micronized particles are liked by some mineral makeup companies because they provide a smooth coverage and adhere easily. The smaller the particle, the more sheer and natural looking the application. On the flip side, micronized particles cannot provide medium to full coverage for those who need to cover life's imperfections.
PURELY COSMETICS: (PurelyCosmetics.com):

Net weight: 6gm Cost: $18.00 Cost/Gram: $3.00Ingredients: Mica, titanium dioxide, iron oxides, zinc oxide. May contain ultramarine.

BARE ESCENTUALS:

Net weight: 8.5gm Cost: $25.00 Cost/Gram: $2.94Ingredients: Titanium dioxide, bismuth oxychloride, mica, iron oxide, zinc oxide. Products have expiration dates.

JANE IREDALE:

Net weight: 10.5gm Cost: $42.00 Cost/Gram: $4.00Ingredients: Titanium dioxide, zinc oxide, mica, bismuth oxychloride, zinc stearate, dimethicone, boron nitride, stearic acid, pomegranate extract, may contain iron oxide, carmine, ultramarine. Uses micronized particles.

GLO MINERALS:

Net weight: 10gm Cost: $37.00 Cost/Gram: $3.70Ingredients: Phytonadione, green tea extract, tocopherol acetate, retinyl palmitate, ascorbyl palmitate, ethylparaben, propylparaben, methylparaben, mica, titanium dioxide, zinc oxide, bismuth oxychloride. May contain iron oxides.

SHEER COVER:

Net weight: 1.5gm & 4gm Cost: $13.00-$20.00** Cost/Gram: $8.67-$5.00Ingredients: Zinc oxide, boron nitride, bisabolol, aspalathus linearis leaf extract, bismuth oxychloride. May contain titanium dioxide, mica iron oxides.
** Only sold in kits; priced based upon going eBay bids. Products have expiration dates.

LAURA MERCIER:

Net weight: 9.6gm Cost: $35.00 Cost/Gram: $3.65Ingredients: Zinc oxide, pearl powder, mica, bismuth oxychloride, titanium dioxide, iron oxides. Uses micronized particles.

YOUNGBLOOD:

Net weight: 10gm Cost: $34.95 Cost/Gram: $3.50Ingredients: Titanium dioxide, bismuth oxychloride, mica, iron oxides. Uses micronized particles.

L'OREAL BARE NATURALE:

Net weight: 10gm Cost: $14.99 Cost/Gram: $1.50Ingredients: Titanium dioxide, talc, boron nitrate, dimethicone, carnaba wax, cetyl dimethicone, trimethyloxysilicate, trisocetyl citrate, alde baradensis leaf juice, tocopheryroyl, panthenol.

PÜR MINERALS: Net weight: 8gm Cost: $23.50 Cost/Gram: $2.94 Ingredients: (4-in-1 Loose Mineral): Titanium dioxide, Mica, Sodium Myristoyl Sarcosinate, Caprylic / Capric Triglyceride, Dimethicone, Aluminum Hydroxide, Zinc Oxide, Iron Oxides. (4-in-1 Pressed): Mica, Boron Nitride, Caprylic/Capric Triglyceride, Bismuth Oxychloride, Zinc Stearate, Magnesium Silicate, Magnesium Carbonate, Silica, Shea Butter (Butyrospermum Parkii), Tocopheryl Acetate, Iron Oxides. Uses micronized particles.NEUTROGENA MINERAL SHEERS:

Net weight: 5gm Cost: $13.00 Cost/Gram: $2.60Ingredients: Mica, bismuth oxychloride, iron oxides, titanium dioxide, polymethylate, retinyl palmitate, tocopheryl acetate, ascorbic acid, pantothenic acid, soybean flour, silk powder, zinc stearate, sodium dehydrocetate, methylparaben, propylparaben.

Hmmm... Carcinogens, expiration dates, and horseradish. These are "pure"?

Jamie Reynolds has been in the medical and cosmetics fields for over 10 years. After comparing many different mineral makeup products, she decided to start her own product line, Purely Cosmetics to provide both quality and value to the customers.

• 0 comments »

Mineral makeup is made from natural minerals taken from the earth. It does not contain the usually chemicals, preservatives or dyes that are in most traditional makeup. Dermatologists state that because mineral makeup often eliminates irritants such as binders, fragrances, dyes and preservatives, it is thought to be purer and gentler for the skin.
Types of mineral makeup
· Liquid base: Liquid base can be found in moisturizing cream or liquid base and ideal for all different skin types.
· Loose base: This base offers sheer to medium coverage and is best for normal to dry skin.
· Pressed base: Minerals of this base are formed into a compact with binders, provide medium to heavy coverage and is best for normal to oily skin.
· Finishing powder: This type of powder is usually translucent, oil-absorbing and rice-based. It is used on top of or underneath foundation to lessen shine.
· Blush: Blush is available in both pressed and loose form. Coverage is sheer and subtle.
· Eye shadow: Eye shadow is versatile and highly pigmented. It is available in loose and pressed powder.
· Eye and lip liner: Liners are available in pencils and powder. Pencils are mixed with natural waxes and oils. Powders are usually wax-free and are used with a wet brush.
· Lipstick: Lipsticks do not contain synthetic preservatives or dyes and usually have moisturizing ingredients and UV protection.
· Hydrating spray: Spray is used to either freshen up or set mineral makeup. Some formulas add thermal sea water or spring water to enhance its minerals.
Mineral makeup comes in many different forms and prices range from $10 to over $50 per product. Mineral makeup is offered in liquid, pressed and loose minerals with the most popular products being the loose powder blushes and foundations. Every individual using this type of makeup will have to decide on the coverage level that is preferred. Depending on the method of application and the type of product, you are able to create any type of look that is desired, from light and airy to more dense and heavy.

Dr. Gavin Chan has a background in intensive care, anaesthesia, and emergency medicine. Since 2004, Dr. Chan has specialised in providing non-surgical cosmetic surgery procedures at Melbourne's Victorian Cosmetic Institute. The Victorian Cosmetic Institute stock a selected range of mineral makeup including Synergie Minerals, Jane Iredale and Glo Minerals.

• 0 comments »

There are a number of factors to look at when choosing the perfect mineral makeup. First of all, always look for a free trial offer or money-back guarantee. Makeup can be tricky to get right, so you don't want to lose a bunch of money if it doesn't work for you.
Mineral makeup should be all-natural, but not all brands are. Some sneak synthetic ingredients in there and call themselves "natural." Avoid makeup that includes the ingredient Bismuth Oxychloride. This can cause your skin to itch and break out. It also leaves a sparkly finish on your complexion. Sheer Miracle products are one of the few that are completely free of Bismuth Oxychloride.
Also make sure that the makeup you choose does not include parabens in the ingredients. This harmful ingredient has been known to cause cancer. If you're not sure about what all a particular kind of makeup includes, check out SafeCosmetics.org and see if it is listed there. You want to be sure that your body will be safe harmful chemicals (such as dyes, preservatives, or fragrances) or hazardous materials. This organization only lists products that use safe alternatives and substitutes.
If you have a problem with sensitive skin, then you will want a mineral makeup that is hypoallergenic and does not use talc. Talc is used for drying out the skin. If your skin is too dry, then makeup can just clump up and become caked in the natural crevices of your complexion. It can also clog your pores, which can cause break-outs. You want a creamy, luminous finish in a mineral makeup.
Some other excellent factors to have a mineral makeup are sun protection and waterproof quality. Sun damage is a common problem that causes skin to age. Using a mineral makeup that has a high SPF can go a long way to preventing that problem. A mineral makeup that holds up well with water is nice for those rainy days as well.
Always look for products that are not tested on animals and that are made in the USA. These will be the highest quality and best for the environment. Don't fall for fancy packaging. Just because the bottle the product comes in is attractive, doesn't mean the product itself is everything it's cracked up to be. Remember, that you will be paying extra for that fancy label.
Now, you may be thinking by this point that it would be impossible to find any mineral makeup that meets all this criteria. But that is actually not true. Sheer Miracle has been meeting these standards for years! When it comes to your face, you should not have to settle for sub par products. And you don't have to. Your skin's health is our top priority, so please make it yours as well.

For additional material on the topic, please visit the informative mineral makeup [http://www.healthmakeup.net] website. Make sure to enjoy the site's well written articles and look through the answers to the posted frequently asked questions on mineral foundation [http://www.healthmakeup.net/index.php?cPath=1].

• 0 comments »

All mineral makeup brands are not created equal.
Just as with any other type of makeup, or any type of product at all, for that matter, some companies use only top of the line ingredients, while others cut as many corners as possible while still turning out a product that meets all the requirements of safety.
Sheer Cover is one such company, that you may have seen as it appears in quite a few infomercials. Then there's bareMinerals, perhaps the first if not one of the first mineral makeup brands. Mineral Silk, CMH Essentials, Sheer Miracle, and Lauren Hutton's AquaElements are also popular brands.
Of what types of material do mineral makeups consist?
The foundations can consist of such finely ground minerals as:
Mica, titanium dioxide, iron oxides, zinc oxide.
The blushes and bronzers can consist of such minerals as:
Mica, iron oxides, titanium dioxide
Finishing Veils: Serecite, iron oxides, titanium dioxide, kaolin clay.
Mineral eye colors: Mica, serecite, iron oxides, titanium dioxide, kaolin clay.
Concealer and Color Correctors: Mica, serecite, kaolin clay, titanium dioxide, zinc oxide, iron oxides
It all depends on what effect is trying to be achieved.
Most mineral makeup brands will not contain bismuth - many people are allergic, and talcs or cornstarch, which can clog pores, are also not used by most brands. Although many of the most famous makeup brands use minerals in their own products, what really sets mineral makeup brands apart are the fact that they typically don't use fragrances, binders, synthetic dyes, and preservatives.
In order to make sure that you use the best mineral makeup brand for you, the best thing to do is search the web for reviews on each brand. These reviews might not tell you everything you need to know - after all, everyone has different issues with their skin - but they will help you make an educated decision.

• 0 comments »

There's no doubt that mineral makeup is becoming the rage. And there's a reason for that: women are finding these powder foundations to be easy to apply, actually fun to apply, and able to provide a smooth, flawless finish. In addition, women appreciate the fact that they contain natural sun protection. And many have noticed that over time their skin has fewer breakouts, and a decrease in any redness (which some call rosacea) - even with no makeup on!
Here's the problem. With this much popularity, there are so many products on the market right now. How does a busy woman choose the mineral foundation that is right for her?
Steps in Choosing a Mineral Foundation
The first thing you should know is that most online mineral companies and almost all the retail stores will accept returns. So you can usually buy a product with confidence, knowing that returns are accepted gracefully.
Second, some online companies, like Monave Minerals, Afterglow Cosmetics, Suncat Minerals, Cleopatra's Choice, and many others, offer samples for sale at a low cost. That means you don't have to commit to a product right away. You can send for samples from each of these companies, spend very little, and actually use the cosmetics before buying the regular size.
Another way to sample before buying, is to go to an Ulta or Sephora outlet, if there is one near you, and try the makeup on right there in the store. The benefit, of course, is that the salespeople really know their products, and can help you make your choices. Bare Minerals is in both these stores, and Urban Decay can be sampled at Sephora.
Foundation Colors and Undertones
If you want to choose a mineral foundation online, you'll have more companies to choose from. The websites have great photos of the colors - although some monitors may interpret colors slightly differently than other monitors. With that in mind, the mineral companies also give a written description of their colors. They'll tell you how sheer or opaque you can expect the product's coverage to be; they'll tell you what the finish looks like (whether it's matte, semi-matte, dewy, or lightly luminescent). They may also say whether a particular color falls into a warm or a cool category. Warm colors have bases that are yellow or gold; cool colors have bases that are more blue. Don't worry - these yellows and blues don't show up in the makeup. But they do give you that much more information to use when making your choices. Women with redness issues might choose a yellow-based foundation, which could cover the red better.
Kits
Some companies sell their minerals as part of a larger kit. Sheer Cover and Lauren Hutton Makeup do that. The advantage here is that they provide more than one shade of foundation and concealer - so you can mix them to get just the right shade for your unique needs.
Application Tips
When trying on a mineral foundation for the first time, make sure your skin is moist but not oily. If you use moisturizer, make sure it's completely soaked in before using the mineral powder. The brush you use - even on samples - is very important. Experts recommend a Taklon kabuki, which is a soft, rounded and very tightly packed brush. Synthetic brushes are far superior to animal hair brushes - they shed less, they're less apt to pick up contaminants, and of course they're vegan, which means animals do not have to be hurt for us to be beautiful.
Also when trying on a test foundation, apply just one thin coat at a time. You can always layer the makeup if you want more coverage.
After you've applied your test foundation, look at it in different lights - sunlight, fluorescent light, and incandescent light. Then apply a setting, or finishing powder, if you want more of a matte finish, and check your new makeup in the three different lights again. Foundation without setting powder on top gives a very different look than foundation with the addition of a finishing powder.
Working with mineral makeup is fun. Having a flawless complexion is fun. Mixing colors and experimenting with different brands is fun. With minerals, the tedium of daily makeup application has been replaced by creativity, and a shortened application time.

Suzann is a technical writer and copy editor, with many pieces published both for the web and in hard copy. A graduate of Northwestern University, she runs the website My Makeup Mirror. http://www.MyMakeupMirror.com/

• 0 comments »

Mineral makeup is the latest trend in cosmetics. It is sold from department store counters, championed on late night infomercials and touted in fashion magazines. How do the various brands differ, and which one is best for you? How does mineral makeup differ from traditional products? Let's take a look.
Despite different brand names and marketing strategies, most mineral makeup has remarkably similar ingredients. Some commonly used minerals include micronized titanium dioxide, micronized zinc oxide, iron oxide, silk mica, and hydrated silica.
Micronized titanium dioxide, a common ingredient in sun block products, is particularly suited to protect skin from damaging sunlight. This white mineral's crystalline structure naturally reflects and defuses the sun's harmful rays. Micronized zinc oxide works in combination with the micronized titanium dioxide to reflect the sunlight's dangerous UVA and UVB rays.
Iron oxide is found in nature in red, orange and yellow hues. These pigments are blended into flesh tones for mineral foundations. Silk mica and hydrated silica soften the mineral compounds for use on the skin. Silk Mica gives mineral makeup a smooth texture, and hydrated silica binds the minerals to make them less messy. Individual brands may add secondary ingredients, such as vitamins, extra skin softeners or stronger pigments to neutralize skin tone.
Mineral makeup can counteract a host of familiar challenges. People prone to allergies or with sensitive skin will find mineral makeup contains no irritating dyes or perfumes. They do not use talc and other fillers that can be harmful to the skin. The acne-prone will find mineral makeup is organic, hypoallergenic and oil free; it will not clog pores like some conventional cosmetics.
Unlike traditional cosmetics, mineral foundations can provide sheer to full coverage. A light, sheer finish can be accomplished by moving the applicator brush in small circles on the face. Mineral makeup can also provide a more opaque texture if applied in layers with a damp sponge, much like you would apply liquid foundation. Fortunately, the consistency of mineral makeup gives coverage without the thick, unnatural, pore-clogging consequences of traditional liquid foundation.
Although mineral makeup has been a fixture in high-end department stores and specialty cosmetics shops for several years, a handful of more economical options are now on the market in drugstores. Consumers can expect to pay $25 for upscale mineral makeup brands, while drugstore mineral makeup from Neutrogena and Physician's Formula range from $9-$12.
With so little variation in actual ingredients, the difference in brands is often limited to marketing strategy. Many brands cater to a specific skin type. For example, Mineralogie claims their mineral makeup is suited to those with oily skin, because it does not include minerals that give other brands a shimmery finish.

Corinne writes on diverse cosmetics topics as well as other womens interests such as jewelry. To read her articles on topics such as online jewelry stores, fine jewelry and supplies to make jewelry [http://www.jewelry-and-more.com/jewelry-making-supplies.htm], visit Jewelry-and-more.com.

• 0 comments »

Bare mineral makeup allows you to look great without subjecting your skin to potentially harmful chemicals. To satisfy our curiosity about the ingredients of mineral makeup we spoke to a chemist in charge of formulating sheer cover makeup. She provided us with a list of the five most common ingredients and information about the role of each of those ingredients as used in mineral makeup.
Titanium Dioxide is a white powdery substance that blocks harmful ultraviolet rays from the sun by creating a thin, impermeable layer between your skin and the invisible ultraviolet light. Safe and natural, titanium dioxide is the same stuff sunbathers often use on their nose, and that your parents might have slathered on you as a child.
Various iron oxides are made from iron, one of the most common elements on Earth. Iron oxidizes in many ways. In addition to rust, it can form many different compounds with different colors. The most attractive of these compounds are added to sheer cover makeup to enhance the color it brings to your face. Iron oxides are the source of pink, brown, red, and taupe pigments in such makeup.
Mica: these minerals have a natural mirror-like sheen. When used as sheer cover makeup, they help your complexion become luminous, smooth, and creamy. These minerals also help improve the texture of creams, powders and mineral liquid foundation, ensuring that they do not clump or drip.
Kaolin is a white, smooth, natural clay found around lake beds. Kaolin helps colors stick to your skin, creating a durable makeup that can last all day. Kaolin also absorbs oil, making kaolin containing makeups particularly appealing for use by people with oily complexions. Due to kaolin's oil absorption properties, Kaolin makeup is good to use on a daily basis. The build up of oils, and the resulting acne are actually prevented by using kaolin containing makeup.
Zinc Oxide: this natural material is similar to titanium dioxide in that it offers good protection against the sun. However, zinc oxide is also a great compound for delicate or irritated skin, since it soothes and brings down inflammation.

Bare mineral make up makes skin look smooth, soft, and youthful without subjecting it to dangerous chemicals. According to chemist Ann Swiftborne, there are five common natural ingredients in sheer cover makeup. Titanium Dioxide, a white powder, protects skin from the sun. Iron Oxides (rust) provide reddish, pink, and brown tints to mineral makeup. Mica, a shimmering mineral, enhances the texture of mineral liquid foundation and leaves skin smooth and glowing. Kaolin, white natural clay, absorbs oil and creates a durable makeup that lasts all day. Zinc Oxide, like Titanium Dioxide, protects skin from the sun and also soothes the skin and reduces redness due to inflammation.

• 0 comments »

Mineral makeup has burst onto the cosmetics scene recently, and for good reason. While many makeup products on the market today use fillers and binders, mineral makeup goes back to basics, using natural ingredients to create a modern look. This type of makeup is created from micronized minerals, including colorants such as micas, oxides, and ultramarines. Titanium dioxide and zinc dioxide are also common ingredients, providing mineral makeup with broad spectrum UVA/UVB skin protection and making it a smarter option for your skin.
If you are at the point where you'd like to try makeup made with minerals, you may have noticed just how many mineral cosmetics companies are out there. The number of choices can be overwhelming for someone who is new to the mineral makeup scene, but never fear! This handy guide to finding the perfect mineral makeup for your skin will start you on your way to becoming a minerals expert.
Six Factors to Consider In Your Makeup Search
1. Brand Recognition: In your research, you will undoubtedly come across the "big names" in mineral makeup time and time again. These companies include Bare Escentuals / Bare Minerals and Sheer Cover (Leeza Gibbons). Like many of us, you may be more comfortable starting out with a well-known brand, and there's nothing wrong with that! The larger companies can be found in a variety of online and brick and mortar shops, making them more readily available. However, you do not have to limit yourself to the larger names. There are literally dozens of mineral makeup companies out there, both large and small, which offer quality cosmetics and skin care.
2. Starter Kits: Kits are a fantastic way to begin your adventures in natural makeup. The larger mineral makeup companies, such as the aforementioned Bare Escentuals and Sheer Cover, have a variety of kits for different skin tones. These kits have everything you will need to get started, including a variety of makeup brushes and, oftentimes, instructional booklets or DVDs. Most smaller mineral makeup companies offer makeup kits, as well. Each company's offering is different, so be sure to compare in order to find the best kit for your needs.
3. Samples: Smaller mineral cosmetics companies tend to excel when it comes to samples. They usually offer (at least) their loose mineral foundation in sample or trial sizes for a small price, and they often offer much of their product lines in sample sizes. Sample sizes are a great option if you're looking to branch with regard to eye color or pigments, and they can be a great way to try out new products.
4. Variety: Smaller mineral cosmetics companies also tend to shine when it comes to variety. Because they are smaller and do not have the overhead that the larger companies have, smaller companies often offer a greater variety of products, as well as color options within product categories. A popular strategy is to buy the essentials (mineral foundation, all over color, concealer) at a larger company while purchasing items such as pigments, eye color, and bronzer at the smaller, independent companies.
5. Ingredients: Ingredients are a hotly debated topic within the mineral makeup community. While some say that ingredients such as bismuth oxychloride and talc should be avoided altogether, others argue that these products are perfectly fine for your skin. It really comes down to personal preference. If you have sensitive skin, some ingredients may cause irritation or breakouts. The key is to try the products on your skin to see how it reacts. If you see that a specific brand is causing skin problems, then discontinue use and move on. Also, don't be afraid to ask questions before you buy! Most companies will be more than happy to answer questions about their products and the ingredients that they use.
6. Price: Prices can vary widely, depending on the brand. More expensive does not always equal better quality. Many smaller companies can sell their products at a lower price point because they do not have to deal with the overhead that the larger companies do, but the lower prices do not mean that the products are not high quality. Your skin will tell you how much you need to pay for mineral makeup. If your skin is happy, then you know that you've found the right brand!

Start your search for the perfect mineral makeup at Mineral Makeup Central, where you will find comprehensive mineral makeup company listings, information about common mineral makeup ingredients, and more.

• 0 comments »

Mineral makeup is the current rage among makeup enthusiasts all over the world. So what is it, precisely, that makes high quality mineral makeup come so highly recommended? With all the hype and infomercials on television, it's certainly worth wondering if the shift from regular makeup to mineral makeup is as worthwhile as people are saying. In order to make an informed opinion, there are facts you should know about this kind of beauty cosmetic.
Minerals are natural crystalline structures formed by geological processes in the earth. Mineral makeup contains minerals such as titanium dioxide, zinc oxide, silk mica, iron oxide, and hydrated silica. These minerals have the essential properties of good makeup - they provide protection from UV radiation, a smooth and sheer finish, excellent flesh tones, and hypoallergenic properties.
There are several compelling reasons to choose natural mineral makeup. For one thing, if you regularly use makeup, then using a high quality mineral variety is best for the health of your skin due to it being safe and non-toxic. Also, mineral makeup has a history behind it - the legendary beauty Cleopatra chose crushed mica as body shimmer owing to the shiny quality of this mineral. Modern day mineral cosmetics have even more benefits than beauty alone, such as:
* The absence of any allergy-causing agents such as dyes, perfumes, and preservatives.
* It is a natural sun-block that protects your skin from both UV-A and UV-B radiation.
* Since it's a loose powder without fillers or an oil base, it is the best option for oil control.
* Skin-soothing ingredients that soothe acne-prone skin.
* It possesses a natural sheen that adds a youthful glow to even aging or wrinkled skin.
When you're looking to purchase mineral makeup, there are a few things to keep in mind. With the growing popularity of mineral-based cosmetics, many companies are offering their own products, claiming "all-natural" ingredients. It is important to note that not all labels, regardless of how well known the brand is, have a right to this claim. Consider these guidelines while making your choice:
* Choose a premium mineral makeup brand that is listed on http://www.safecosmetics.org. This site incorporates the names of those cosmetic companies that have pledged not to use chemicals that are known or strongly suspected of causing cancer, mutation or birth defects in their products and to implement substitution plans that replace hazardous materials with safer alternatives in every market they serve.
* Most products have the ingredient bismuth oxychloride, which is neither natural nor hypoallergenic. It has been found to cause allergic rash, itching, or irritation in some women. Other ingredients to watch out for are talc and parabens.
* Also keep an eye out for the SPF rating of the product. SPF 15 is the minimum rating required for adequate protection from the harmful rays of the sun.
Premium mineral makeup should not only deliver a superior product that beautifies, but that is completely safe and beneficial for your skin. One of the highest rated brands in this area is Sheer Miracle. Sheer Miracle's range of products stands true on all tested areas of safe cosmetics. It offers completely hypoallergenic products and is listed on the safecosmetics website. Most importantly they do not contain bismuth oxychloride, talc, or parabens.
The cosmetic ingredients are minerals mined from around the world, purified and crushed into fine powder form. One of the most interesting features of this brand is that the premium products are not dressed in expensive packaging and therefore come at amazing discount rates. For a youthful shimmer and the finest protection you can get from your cosmetics, Sheer Miracle premium mineral makeup is recommended. It will change the way you define makeup.

For additional material on the topic, please visit the informative mineral makeup [http://www.healthmakeup.net] website. Make sure to enjoy the site's well written articles and look through the answers to the posted frequently asked questions on mineral foundation

• 0 comments »

It takes hardly any time to apply and I do not need all of the other cosmetics weighing down my makeup bag. I am sure that my schedule is not unlike a lot of other women in today's hectic, crazy world.
Let's see, does this sound familiar: the alarm clock shakes my world at 6:00 am, and I jump out of my skin, leap off the bed and without touching the floor successfully kill the shrilling scream that radiates from the clock.
Ok, here we go, another day. I catch a scary glimpse of myself in the bathroom mirror, I prepare my "sweet motherly smile" as I go through to gently bring my children back in to the world once again. Sometimes it is not as painful as others although it is always a struggle.
The house is alive with moans and groans, I have once again lost my spot in the line for the bathroom as I ran off to get their lunches ready and make sure that their school bags are packed.
The kids head off to the bus, great, two down. I check my watch and am horrified but not surprised that I have 10 minutes to get myself ready and off to my train.
Finally, I have the bathroom all to myself. I still look scary but am not concerned, I still have 6 minutes to reconstruct my face and straighten my wild hair. Lifting my 5lb make-up bag up from under the sink, I pour out all of the contents over the counter. Ok, foundation, concealer, eye shadow, where is the blush and lip stick?
Oh yes, I remember, I put them in my purse for touch ups throughout the day. Quickly I run to my bag and get what I need. Back to the Bathroom, On know, 2 minutes to go.
Knowing that I am never going to make it, I quickly slap on my foundation, I have to forget the concealer, there is not time (red spots are going to have to stay), with a quick brush up and down each cheek with my blush, I run out the door combing my hair as I go.
Finally, sitting on the train huffing and buffing, as I had to run from my car that was parked half a mile away (at least it seemed that way) from the train station, I get out my mirror for a final look.
I look terrible. My foundation didn't even partially cover the red spots around my nose, not to mention the faint dark circles that I have under my eyes (courtesy of my kids and lack of sleep). The blush that I thought was on barely shows, I look like I am half dead. I can't do anything about it now as I do not carry around my make-up bag that weighs 5ilbs. It is heavy enough just to carry my lunch, book, work notes and my hair brush.
Just as I am putting away my all telling mirror, a nice looking lady sits down beside me. She obviously doesn't have children. Her make-up is perfect and she looks like she has nice color, so has probably been on a vacation to the beach; must be nice.
My envious thoughts are interrupted as I stare at her speechlessly; she pulls a nice little compact from her purse and with a nice soft wide brush, she effortlessly guides the brush across her cheeks, chin, eyes and even her lips. Smiling at herself in her the mirror, she closes the compact and turns to me questioningly.
Wow, I say that is quite the compact. Yes she says, it is made by a company called "Go Natural", it is all she ever use. This can't be possible I thought. To her I said, what about you foundation and concealer? (the women didn't have a red mark on her face). She replies that her powder acts as a great concealer and foundation, and she even uses it as a blush, eye shadow and lipstick. It is great. It literally takes less then 3 minutes for her to apply her make-up in the morning, and she takes it with her wherever she goes as it is so light.
Here she says, would you like to try it? At this point she probably thinks that I look I need the help, and lets face it she would be right. Skeptically, I take the compact from her and as per her instructions apply the powder, At first I didn't see the effect, but as I continued to gently apply, I couldn't believe the effect it was having on my skin. My red spots and dark circles were all but gone. My skin began to have a soft warm glow. I applied a small amount of powder with another little brush to my eyes and lips. Pulling back the mirror for a final look, I could not believe the transformation. I looked like a different person. My face had color, with a special highlight on my cheeks and eyelids where I applied the powder as a blush and eye shadow. My lips had a nice natural color and after applying a clear lip gloss that I always carried around with me that also had a nice natural shine.
I was so excited; it must have shown on my face. As I went to hand back the "Miracle" compact by Go Natural. The lady pushed my hand back and told me that I could keep it. I bet she was thinking that I could obviously use it more then she could.
No, I responded that wouldn't be right. I have another one at home she replied. I can see how much you like it and it truly makes you glow so it is my treat.
I thanked her profusely, knowing how this product was going to change my life. Not only would it save me an enormous amount of time applying my make-up but I would finally be able to get rid of my 5Ilb bag of make-up.
When I got to the office, my colleagues couldn't believe my great new look (I had made a pit stop at the bathroom to fix my hair now that my face looked so great. My girlfriend commented that I looked rested and had the soft glow of a tan as if I had just come back from the Caribbean. Little did they know it was all thanks to my new all in one make-up compact!
Hundreds of Thousands have already made the choice!

I get so many comments on my makeup and my appearance when I wear my Go-Natural. I am a Go-Natural girl all the way!
Please Visit http://www.go-natural.net For More Information

• 0 comments »

Over the time, one of the best and amazing developments in the make-up technology is the Sheer cover makeup. Since it is easy to use and looks natural, it is becoming popular. More and more companies are shifting their product lines to incorporate more sheer makeup products.
Many women don't like to wear make up because of how heavy, wet, and unnatural it looks. It takes a lot of time to apply coats of foundation each morning, followed by pressed powder to set everything. The touch ups required throughout the day are endless. The phrase "putting your face on" gives a good idea how much effort it was to make yourself look presentable. Forget all of that when you're using powder foundation.
Sheer cover makeup that is of good quality and value is hard to find. Expensive make up counters at department stores make a fortune selling bottles upon bottles of their product to women. Sheer make up is quite the opposite of this! A bottle of mineral makeup can cost as little as $10. To find the cheapest sheer cover makeup, check out discount stores, drug stores, and even supermarkets.
One of the greatest thing about this new type of make up is that sheer naked mineral makeup is not nearly as irritating to some women as traditional types of make up are. They are usually made without perfumes, alcohol, additives, or preservatives found in liquid foundation make up. As a result, women with allergies and other sensitives rarely have a problem with powder foundations!
Sheer makeup also includes the added sun protection. Sheer makeup is also a great alternative to sunscreens, because they have high SPF factors between 15 and 30 and they will not clog your pores like the oily sunscreens. In fact, there may not be a need at all to use sunscreen if you are using sheer makeup.
Heavy makeup can feel like a mask over a woman's face. Sheer cover makeup doesn't have this problem. Many women say they can't remember that they're wearing it at all. The reason sheer makeup is lighter is that it doesn't settle into pores and wrinkles the way heavier makeup does, resulting in a superior experience you've got to try to believe.

Sheer cover makeup is one of the best advancements recently made by the makeup industry. It's easy and fast to apply, doesn't cost a lot, and looks excellent. For example, a powder foundation allows one to forget the normally time-consuming process of "putting on one's face," and a bottle of naked mineral cosmetics may cost as little as . Mineral makeup also won't affect those with allergies in the way that traditional cosmetics might, and it protects one from the sun without feeling like a heavy mask over one's face. All in all, this makeup is definitely an improvement from traditional cosmetics.

• 0 comments »

The sheer cover makeup contains minerals such as zinc causes the lines and wrinkles to be less visible. It also causes your skin to feel more relaxed and natural and to breathe. Natural mineral pigments were used to make it. The sheer cover makeup does not have oils and artificial dyes nor synthetic chemicals. The sheer cover makeup feels like you did not use any makeup whatsoever and it makes the skin feel natural.
Also known as bareminerals, the sheer cover makeup is getting more popular day by day, especially among younger women. Long suffering women who are tired of the traditional liquid and cream foundation that makes them feel like they are wearing masks, are now feeling happy and relieved with the lightness of bareminerals. However, some women, mainly over 35 years old, are not impressed about mineral makeup's advantages. That may probably be because older and dry skin requires much more elaborate and proper moisturizing before applying this makeup.
In addition, women who are used to more traditional liquid foundations make the mistake of applying excessive amounts of powder. A little powder goes a long way in the mineral makeup, and one should apply even less powder for dry or mature skin. Through experimentation and familiarization, you will get to know the right amount of powder needed. Applying too much can result in a "cakey"-looking facing.
Applying a mineral makeup is not a perfectly straightforward job and requires a certain degree of skill. Starting with a clean and moisturized face, dip a large brush in the powder, tap to remove excess, and dust in a circular motion. Start from the edge of the face, working inwards, and allow several minutes for the skin to become accustomed to the moisturizer and to fully dry.
Complexion of your face will seem to be somewhat dry for the first few minutes but once the powder blends with the naturally secreted oils of your skin, the makeup's effectiveness becomes apparent. Your face seems to freshen and the skin looks flawless. Two of the minerals, titanium dioxide and zinc oxide, block the sun and protect the skin from harsh sunlight. The makeup does an excellent job of minimizing the scars and broken capillaries.
Women who have become aware of the advantages of mineral makeup have also discovered that pressed mineral foundation makeup can be used as a stand-alone cosmetic, or as a complement to mineral foundation through blending. Pressed mineral foundation makeup is excellent in controlling the oily look, while at the same time remaining fresh and lightweight throughout the day.

Sheer cover makeup works by giving the skin a more natural appearance, giving the appearance of not having used makeup at all. Women tired of suffering through traditional makeup techniques that make them feel as though they are wearing masks find themselves happy and relieved by the lightness of bareminerals Women who have become aware of the advantages of mineral makeup have also discovered that pressed mineral foundation makeup can be used as a stand-alone cosmetic, or as a complement to mineral foundation through blending. Mineral foundation makeup is excellent in controlling the oily look, while at the same time remaining fresh and lightweight throughout the day.

• 0 comments »

In this day and age, there are so many different types of makeup that a woman has to choose from. As many women know, that is a good thing; the ingredients in some of the different types of makeup can cause allergic reactions in some women, and some brands of cosmetics frankly do not do the type of cover job that some women think they need.
For this reason, there is an ever-increasing demand for Sheer Cover mineral makeup, and other such brands of cosmetics. There is a common misconception about it that they do not do the same type of job covering up makeup as many of the more popular types of commercial products, and that is just not the case. The only difference between Sheer Cover and traditional cosmetics is that it is made up of different ingredients, some of which are even better for your skin.
Many women do not like traditional makeup because of the way that it comes out. With mineral makeup products, you do not have to be a professional artist for the final product to come out looking great. Anybody can easily apply sheer cover mineral makeup and have it look great, like they got professional help.
The only downside to Sheer Cover is that it is a bit more expensive than some of the traditional cosmetic products out there today, but in all actuality you do get what you pay for. There are a number of other foundations that cost as much if not more for similar products. Also, mineral makeup tends to last a great deal longer as well, so you save time and money having to replace your traditional liquid or powder foundation.
Every woman can benefit from what Sheer Cover mineral makeup products have to offer. Unless there is an allergic reaction involved, most women may even prefer the coverage that Sheer Cover mineral makeup has to offer over the coverage that traditional cosmetics provide. This is because it is made up of natural minerals made from the Earth, making it less harsh on skin that gets sensitive to other types of makeup.
In addition, if you have blemishes or dark patches on your skin from acne or a similar skin disorder, Sheer Cover will give you an even, clear complexion which is natural.
For those women out there who are frustrated with the coverage that their current cosmetics are providing, or for those who are sensitive to the ingredients in traditional commercial cosmetics, it is certainly worth giving Sheer Cover mineral makeup a try. There is nothing like a flawless, natural base color foundation and combined with the fact that Sheer Cover mineral makeup is easier to apply than traditional liquid or powder foundations, you just can not lose.

I'm over 50 with European background living in Western Australia.I have recently started off a block about mineral makeup, where I'm looking at it from a slightly unusual angle.To benefit from information on my blog go to: http://www.buyingmineralmakeupnow.com/

• 0 comments »