Cosmetic mineral powders are labeled as “all natural” for their unique granulated formulations. They provide nice, even coverage, do not absorb into the skin as much, and are labeled as synthetic and irritant-free. While it’s always best to choose the best natural make-up solution for your skin, the make-up industry is not regulated closely by the FDA, and make-up selection should always be decided with the utmost caution.
It only takes a trace amount of real mineral ingredients for a powder to be declared “all-natural”. Some foundations and powders on the market can contain binders and unhealthy clay minerals that can cause serious reactions on the skin. The label of a mineral powder may seem “pure” with an “all-natural” sticker, but some have been known to contain toxic metals like nickel, aluminum, and mercury that are not healthy for you.
Mercury especially has been known to cause neurological damage from eyeliners and pencils, even in small quantities, as it is sometimes used as a preservative. Small doses of mercury are unlikely to cause any problems, but toxicologists have claimed that mercury has the tendency to accumulate in the body over time, aggravating health issues later on. There is even a ban on mercury in make-up products in Minnesota, the first state to stamp such a strict standard on their make-up products.
Mineral make-up is often chosen for its organic ingredients and is suggested by dermatologists for people with oily, sensitive, or acne-prone skin. Before buying a mineral make-up, be sure to carefully inspect the ingredients. A true mineral make-up will contain ingredients like mica, zinc oxide, and titanium oxide. Ingredients such as bismuth oxychloride, is an additive to make up and not a natural earth mineral. It is considered a skin irritant and can cause itching, rashes as well as cause acne. Read the ingredient list carefully, and if it contains chemicals that you are not familiar with, I recommend looking elsewhere.
Treat your skin similarly as you would in nourishing your body, the less chemicals and toxins- the better it will function!
References:
http://www.webmd.com/health-ehome-9/mineral-makeup
http://www.uic.edu/com/eye/LearningAboutVision/EyeFacts/Cosmetics.shtml
http://www.cbsnews.com/stories/2007/12/14/health/main3618048.shtml?source=RSSattr=Health_3618048
