Family Life Magazine

Mineral Makeup Facts
By Gail Erickson

Mineral makeup has hit every marketplace from QVC to Walmart to Neiman Marcus or the Salon. But what is the difference? First of all, mineral makeup has become so popular because it has an almost weightless feel on the face while providing great coverage. It usually does not contain ingredients to clog the pores. It creates a calming effect on most skin so it is ideal for those with skin irritation, acne and roseacea.

But there is no regulation for what constitutes a mineral makeup other than the main ingredients in the product must be from minerals. Mineral makeups can be broken into two groups:

(Group A) Those that contain no fillers, parabens or preservatives

(Group B) Those that add fillers, binders, colors, preservatives and chemicals

Group A tends to be more expensive and much better for the skin. If you already own a mineral makeup you may perform a simple test to find out which group your foundation falls into.

Simply take an 8 oz glass of water and sprinkle a small amount of mineral makeup into it. Your minerals should float at the top. Now stir the concoction with a spoon. Wait approximately 5 minutes. If your mineral makeup is from Group A with no fillers, parabens or preservatives, the minerals will again float on the top and appear dry. Group B makeup will turn the water murky and the minerals will not float on top or appear dry.

Practically Frivolous, in St Petersburg offers Colorescience™ mineral makeup. An entire line of makeup is available including foundations, eye shadows and lipsticks. Everything contains at least an SPF of 15. Wherever you purchase your mineral makeup, be aware!

Gail Erickson is a licensed Clinical Esthetician with an English degree from USF, Tampa. She works at Practically Frivolous, a full-service salon in St. Petersburg. Please direct any skin care questions to gail_erickson@yahoo.com

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