Ingredients of Mineral Makeup

Mineral makeup is known for its often hypoallergenic ingredients and minimalistic formulations. The core ingredients typically found in mineral makeup are:

1. Mineral Pigments

• Titanium Dioxide: A mineral that provides opacity and coverage. It also offers sun protection (often found in sunscreens) and can help to create a matte finish.
• Zinc Oxide: Another mineral that provides coverage and sun protection. It's often used for its soothing properties and is suitable for sensitive skin.
• Mica: A mineral that adds shimmer and luminosity to the skin. It reflects light and can create a glowing, radiant finish.
• Iron Oxides: Used for colouring, iron oxides come in various shades to provide a range of colours for foundation, blush, and eyeshadow. They can give your makeup the desired hue without synthetic dyes.

2. Binding Agents

• Silica: A mineral that can help absorb excess oil and create a smooth, silky texture. It often contributes to a matte finish.
• Boron Nitride: Often used to improve the texture of mineral makeup, giving it a smooth, velvety feel.

3. Fillers and Absorbents

• Kaolin Clay: A clay that helps to absorb excess oil and control shine. It also has a smooth texture that helps with the application.
• Magnesium Stearate: A compound that helps the minerals adhere better to the skin and enhances the blend ability of the makeup.

4. Preservatives (if necessary)

• Vitamin E: Sometimes included for its antioxidant properties and to extend the shelf life of the product. It also has moisturizing benefits.

5. Other Additives (if needed)

• Hyaluronic Acid: Occasionally included for its hydrating properties, though it's less common in mineral formulations.
• Natural Colourants: In addition to iron oxides, some mineral makeup may use other natural colourants for specific shades or effects.

What ingredient should be avoided with Sensitive Skin?

If you have sensitive skin, certain ingredients in skincare and makeup products can potentially cause irritation or allergic reactions. Here are some common ingredients you might want to avoid:

1. Fragrances

• Synthetic Fragrances: Often used to make products smell pleasant, synthetic fragrances can be irritating and cause allergic reactions or sensitivities.
• Essential Oils: While natural, essential oils can also be irritating to sensitive skin, particularly in high concentrations.

2. Alcohol

• Alcohol (Ethyl Alcohol, Isopropyl Alcohol): These can be drying and irritating, stripping the skin of its natural oils and causing sensitivity.
• Alcohol Denat: Denatured alcohol can be especially harsh and irritating.

3. Preservatives

• Parabens: Used as preservatives, parabens can be irritating for some sensitive skin types and may disrupt hormonal balance.
• Formaldehyde and Formaldehyde-Releasing Agents: These can be irritating and allergenic.

4. Harsh Exfoliants

• Physical Exfoliants (e.g., Abrasive Scrubs): These can be too harsh and cause micro-tears in the skin, leading to irritation.
• Strong Chemical Exfoliants (e.g., High Concentrations of AHA/BHA): While beneficial in moderate amounts, high concentrations can irritate sensitive skin.

5. Sulfates

• Sodium Lauryl Sulfate (SLS) and Sodium Laureth Sulfate (SLES): These surfactants can be drying and irritating to sensitive skin, stripping it of its natural oils.

6. Artificial Dyes

• Synthetic Colorants: These can cause allergic reactions or sensitivity in some individuals, especially if used in high concentrations.

7. Silicones

• Cyclopentasiloxane, Dimethicone: While generally considered safe, some people find silicones can cause breakouts or irritation, particularly if used in high concentrations.

8. Potential Allergens

• Lanolin: Derived from sheep’s wool, lanolin can be an allergen for some people with sensitive skin.
• Nickel: Found in some metal components of skincare and makeup products, nickel can cause allergic reactions in sensitive individuals.

9. Harsh Acids

• High Concentrations of Salicylic Acid or Glycolic Acid: These can be irritating when used excessively, especially if you have sensitive skin.

10. Emulsifiers and Stabilizers

• Certain Emulsifiers: Ingredients like PEGs (Polyethylene Glycols) can be irritating for some sensitive skin types.

Tips for Sensitive Skin

• Patch Test: Always perform a patch test before trying new products to ensure they don’t cause a reaction.
• Simplify Your Routine: Opt for products with fewer ingredients to minimize the risk of irritation.
• Choose Gentle Formulas: Look for products labeled as hypoallergenic, fragrance-free, and formulated for sensitive skin.
• Consult a Dermatologist: For personalized advice and to identify any specific ingredients that may trigger your sensitivity.

By avoiding these potentially irritating ingredients and opting for gentle, soothing formulations, you can better protect and care for your sensitive skin.