A bit ago another advisor wrote about questionable ingredients used by major cosmetic companies. She along with another lovely person was my inspiration to write this blog. Some may find this topic controversial as it express mostly opinion. Many women use makeup to hide flaws, and enhance natural beauty. It is understandable that many wear makeup on a frequent basis when working in the public eye.
To keep from using makeup with harmful synthetic ingredients many women have started using mineral makeup. While some have had great success with their switch, others are having problems with breakouts, suddenly developing acne and rashes.
Not all mineral makeup is created equal. There is no regulation of what constitutes mineral makeup. Any product containing minerals as a primary ingredient can be marketed as such, even if it contains a whole lot of other less natural ingredients. Many cosmetic companies that are advertising as “pure, natural and the like” are compromising quality for profit.
Some companies take care not to use synthetics (like paraben preservatives and other fillers) and stay true to the original intent of pure mineral makeup. While other cosmetic companies add fillers, colors, binders, preservatives, and other chemicals to their formulas. Do not be fooled by the terms all natural or pure mineral formula.
That's because within the brands that claim pure mineral formulations, there is still another category breakdown -- those that contain an arguably natural mineral known as bismuth oxycholoride, and those that do not.
Bismuth is a pearlizing agent that gives mineral makeup that candlelight glow, bismuth oxychloride is a mineral, but it's not found in the earth. Bismuth is a byproduct of lead and copper processing. Bismuth oxychloride is also frequently as a filling agent or as binder and some say it comes with a heavy price.
"Bismuth oxychloride is considered a skin irritant and can cause itching and rashes and in large amounts it can cause cystic acne as well – it's one of the ingredients you should try to avoid if you have acne or rosacea or sensitive skin. Some products have this ingredient, while others do not.
Searching for mineral makeup that does not contain bismuth can be a rather daunting task. It is important to read labels carefully.
Below I list some makeup that I have found that does not contain bismuth.
Beelucious
This wonderful makeup can be purchased through Bee Royal Products website an eco friendly company. They have a deluxe makeup kit with everything you need to look picture perfect at an economical price. Many other make up items can be purchased individually in many colors. Other fine skin care items, and supplements are also available. My personal favorite.
Repechage
Seaweed based treatment makeup that can be purchased directly through their website or fine spas and salons nationwide. They carry other seaweed based skincare items.
Dr. Hauska
An eco friendly all natural holistic skin care company that offers a variety of skin care and makeup items. Products can be found online through their website or select healthfood store nationwide.
AnneMarie Borlind
An eco friendly company that offers natural beauty products using unpoluted organic sources. Products can purchased directly or through select retailers.
Lauress
Company uses highest quality cosmetic and pharmaceutical grade mineral pigments. Products can be purchased directly though their website.
A quick note about nail polish. Nail polish also contains some questionable ingredients. Two brands off the top of my head that are considered more safe are Barielle and Peace Keeper.