There are so many cosmetic companies with a mineral-based makeup line and there is so much hype surrounding all of them. Mineral makeup gets a lot of buzz because of the claim that it is so much better for your skin rather than the traditional foundations. There are a lot of great mineral makeup brands that work well for many but I have learned that they do not work for everyone. Of course, mineral makeup is nothing new on the scene but let’s be honest; mineral foundation is really just another type of powder foundation. The word "mineral" is supposed to mean that the ingredients are all natural, free of fragrances and dyes. Unfortunately, this really isn’t the case for all of the mineral makeup brands, as there are some that contains minerals and ingredients that are known to irritate the skin.

Let’s discuss the real benefits of mineral makeup:

Most mineral foundation provides UVA and/or UVB sun protection which is great especially for those living in hot sunny climates. The feeling of mineral makeup is almost weightless and does not have that heavy feeling, even after being layered. Mineral makeup is great for those with normal to oily skin as it provides an opaque and matte finish. It is also free of fragrances which are great for those with sensitive skin. Mineral makeup is also non-comedogenic (does not clog pores) and allows the skin to breathe, which is another plus for those who have acne-prone skin.

Now on to the Cons:

The sun protection found in mineral makeup is really not enough to fully protect the skin. Most only provide a sun protection of 15, which will never provide enough protection. It is very important to use a stronger sunscreen underneath your makeup. Ingredients like Bismuth and Mica are found in mineral makeup and these ingredients may cause breakouts or reactions for those with sensitive or dry skin. Mineral makeup can look cakey and accentuate fine lines and wrinkles, especially for those with dry or mature skin. If maximum coverage is your desired look, then most likely that will not be achieved with mineral foundations, unless using a cream based concealer underneath. Some mineral foundations create an ashy appearance for darker complexions and many companies do not cater to darker ethnicities.

Loose mineral makeup can be very messy and not a good idea to take along when traveling. There are several companies that have a pressed powder format and a liquid form as well. The ingredients found in mineral makeup are the same ingredients that have been used for decades in traditional foundation forms. Many cosmetic companies rave that mineral makeup is so pure that you can sleep in it. There is no scientific proof that it is actually purer than any other form of foundation. Furthermore, you should never sleep in any type of makeup as the skin repairs itself while sleeping and having any makeup on the skin will prevent that. For everyday usage, mineral makeup will be great for those that do not have many skin issues; however, for special occasions or being in front of the camera, opting for liquid, cream, or airbrush foundations will provide a more flawless coverage.

In a nut shell, mineral makeup has its pros and cons just like any other foundation on the market. Is it really better for the skin? It really just depends on the type of skin and skincare concerns for each person.

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