Harnessing the powerful remedies of Nature
Synergies for babies with Eczema
Natural Antimicrobiols, Body and Beauty

Read ARTICLES OF INTEREST

Mineral Makeup: the natural alternative

---------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------

Imogen Matthews

Mineral make-up is not a new trend, but it has received a fresh make-over and new natural positioning.

Manufacturers have long struggled to find acceptable quality natural colour cosmetic formulations, until along came mineral make-up as the new "green" alternative. Now mineral lines account for over 90% of natural colour cosmetics sales in North America, according to UK based consulting and research company Organic Monitor.

Mineral make-up is a niche market, but the link with the natural trend is increasing its popularity. In addition, it is attracting women with allergies, skin sensitivities, hormonal problems or illnesses who cannot wear normal make-up. These are products without additives

Mineralogics uses highly purified, micronised minerals, including natural sericite, iron oxides, ultramarines and titanium dioxide. It is widely recommended by dermatologists' offices for use after chemical peels and laser resurfacing to conceal redness, while protecting the skin from UV rays.

Inika Cosmetics uses crushed mineral pigments sourced in Australia and is described by its founders Miranda Bond and Jenni Williams as "not your typical mineral cosmetics brand", stressing that the difference lies in the purity of its ingredients. The Inika products are free from harsh chemicals, fillers, talc, bismuth oxychloride, GM ingredients, parabens, preservatives and fragrances.

The Inika products claim to be gentle enough for women who have suffered allergies or sensitivities to cosmetics for years. The dense pigments mean that skin conditions such as acne, rosacea, redness and scarring can be hidden whilst allowing the skin to breathe.

Founders Miranda Bond and Jenni Williams wanted their brand to meet strict natural and ethical criteria but to be functional and beautiful. "People who want natural cosmetics still expect them to be sexy and fun, and importantly to perform," comments Bond.

LVF Mineral Makeup launched in July 2007 online and through salons and uses minerals and botanicals in its formulations, which are preservative-free. Founder Leanne Franklin states: "Too many high street cosmetics contain pore-blocking ingredients such as carmine, talc, dyes, synthetic fragrance, bismuth oxchloride, sodium lauryl/laureth sulphate and petroleum derivatives. I wanted to provide an affordable alternative."

Mintel reports that mineral make-up is a huge trend in the US mass market with more of the major multinationals launching lines. Examples include L'Oreal Paris True Match foundation, Maybelline New York Mineral Power, Procter & Gamble's Cover Girl Trublend and Johnson & Johnson's Neutrogena Mineral Sheers. UK niche brand Taxi Cosmetics is launching Taxi Pure into Superdrug stores this spring, which is formulated without parabens, artificial dyes and fillers.

Smaller brands, including Inika Cosmetics, Bare Escentuals and Mineralogics are at pains to point out that many of the mainstream mineral offerings are not necessarily natural. MAC, for example, includes talc in its formulations, which some believe is carcinogenic. However, the future looks bright for this emerging sector with the launch of more affordable mineral make-up brands offering purity of ingredients, better coverage and a more natural look.

Our Products : Our Philosphy : Contact Us : Order from us : Safety : Healthy Living : Disclaimer
Aromatherapy Website