When it comes to foundations, one can choose from liquid to powder and everything in between. But what if you’re looking for something more organic that gives a natural look with the same coverage? Well then, mineral makeup may be the right choice for you. Mineral makeup is becoming more and more popular, with many fans saying it provides better coverage than regular makeup. And it does that without feeling heavy or clogging pores.
Some are formulated with antioxidants and natural SPF for sensitive and acne-prone skin, like Made in the Shade Mineral Powder Foundation.
So how exactly does it compare to regular makeup?
This article will walk you through all the ins and outs of this growing beauty trend, including how it’s made, why it’s better for you, and how to apply it correctly.
What is Mineral Makeup?
Minerals have been used in cosmetics since ancient times. Egyptians, for instance, added crushed volcanic ash to lighten their skin and conceal blemishes.
Today, mineral-based makeup contains micronized minerals, but these aren’t just any ordinary minerals. They are highly pigmented and lightweight. Examples of such ingredients are mica, iron, zinc, and titanium dioxide, proven to provide better coverage without clogging pores or causing breakouts.
There are many mineral-based makeup options on store shelves, though the liquid versions tend to be more popular than their powder counterparts. Does that mean they’re better? Let’s find out.
Liquid Mineral Makeup vs. Powder Mineral Makeup
Here is a comparison of the characteristics of liquid and powder mineral makeup:
Liquid Mineral Makeup | Powder Mineral Makeup |
Wet, water-based | Dry |
Packaging: tube or bottle | Packaging: jar or compact |
Applied directly to the skin using a foundation brush or a moistened sponge | Applied using a damp sponge or by dipping a brush into water before picking up the powder with it |
Provides full coverage | Achieves even coverage without streaking |
Typically less expensive than powder | Covers large areas of skin quickly |
Whether you choose liquid or powder form depends on what you’re trying to achieve. For example, some mineral-based makeup, like foundations, come in both liquid and powder form. If your goal is to achieve a soft-focus effect, either could work for you. However, if you want to control shine on oily skin, we recommend choosing a powder mineral makeup foundation over its liquid counterpart.
The effectiveness of liquid or powder mineral-based makeup will also depend on how well you apply it. Carefully following application instructions can help achieve ideal results.
Is Mineral Makeup Harmful?
With mineral-based makeup, you need less application to get more coverage. That’s less chance for irritation and breakouts on your face.
More importantly, most mineral-based makeup products contain the minimum amount of preservatives, sometimes none at all. That’s because minerals naturally fight bacteria.
Mineral based makeup is also free of synthetic chemicals like talc, bismuth oxychloride, and dyes which may adversely impact your health, particularly when applied daily over a long period.
Keep in mind, though, that not all mineral makeup brands are created equal. It pays to check the label for other positive aspects, including:
- organic ingredients
- availability of a wide range of colors
- long-lasting
- cruelty-free (not tested on animals)
- hypoallergenic
Advantages Of Mineral Over Traditional Makeup
There are fundamental differences between mineral-based makeup and traditional makeup, whether powder, liquid, or cream-based. Today, those distinctions are what could make or break your brand since consumers have become more conscious of the ingredients in their skincare products.
Traditional makeup almost always includes synthetic and chemical ingredients that are hazardous to the skin and the environment.
Regular cosmetics don’t even compare in terms of quality. In fact, many people call it “throwaway makeup” because we use so much of it without thinking twice and easily replace it. Just think about how many lipstick tubes you go through in one year!
Mineral based makeup is planet-friendly, versatile, lightweight, and often provides medium to full coverage. There’s also less chance of skin irritations given the more natural content.
You will also never feel caked with mineral makeup on, which tends to give more of a matte finish rather than leaving skin with a dewy glow. As long as you choose one that matches your skin tone closely, you don’t need to worry about having any lines or patches during application.
Which Mineral Makeup Brand Is The Best?
When it comes to mineral powder foundation, there are different kinds to choose from depending on your skin type. For example, if you have dry skin, powder is preferred over liquid. Individuals with sensitive or reactive skin should check for hypoallergenic and fragrance-free variants.
Although mineral powder foundation is available in variations specific to normal, oily, and combination skin, it is always best to do a patch test before applying it all over your face. This way, you can avoid any allergic reaction.
Launched almost 50 years ago, bareMinerals is recognized as the original mineral makeup. But mineral makeup has come a long way since then!
Skin-friendly brand, Dermaflage innovates with a full-coverage mineral foundation, specially designed for sensitive complexions, Made In The Shade.
Mineral Fusion Makeup is considered by some to be among the best mineral makeup brands for its wide range of products, from cosmetics to skin, nail, body, and hair care.
For the high-end crowd, Jane Iredale is a favorite. And for those who are serious about helping save the planet, the refillable compacts from Alima Pure are a perfect choice.
Made In The Shade - Your 5-Star Mineral Powder Foundation
Made in the Shade is for everyone, whether you have oily, dry, normal, combination, or mature skin. The formula works because it ensures your foundation looks natural and doesn’t require a separate bronzer or highlighter to contour your face.
Each of the brand’s unique shades matches every skin color perfectly. If you’re ready to use mineral makeup but don’t know where to start, we recommend using a Made in the Shade base. This mineral foundation powder evens out one’s skin while correcting flaws like dark circles under the eyes and visible pores on the cheeks.
Since the naturally-derived and vegan-friendly formulation isn’t water-based and contains fewer ingredients than liquid foundation, it doesn’t feel greasy or heavy. And yet, it still provides full coverage.
Made in the Shade is more than a cosmetic product. It is a professional mineral makeup choice that contains antioxidants and natural SPF to protect your skin from pollutants, UV rays, and free radicals.
Since it lasts longer and does not run off or smear, you won’t even notice you’re wearing foundation—until someone asks what brand you’re using and where they can buy it!
Final Thoughts
Your skin is your largest organ. So, when it comes to the makeup you apply, shouldn’t you know what goes into it?
Without a doubt, makeup that mineral based is a skin-friendly option than traditional makeup. Aside from helping you achieve the look you want, its natural origins mean minimal adverse effects compared to makeup with chemical ingredients.
In terms of aesthetics, many women prefer mineral-based makeup because they can adjust the level of coverage depending on their skin type and day-to-day activities. Best of all, mineral makeup helps you create a flawless look every day!