Mineral Makeup: Looking Out For Your Skin

Mineral makeup is one of the hottest trends in the cosmetics industry, and more and more users are taking to them in a big way all over the world. Before you hop on the mineral makeup however, you should be aware that certain mineral makeup brands pose a risk no matter how seemingly insignificant.

Bismuth oxychloride–what you should know

Even mineral makeup brands that are labeled as being of "pure mineral" formulation, may contain a substance that experts are still undecided on whether to categorize as "natural": bismuth oxycholoride. Regardless of whether a mineral makeup brands is labeled as “pure mineral”, it may or may not contain bismuth oxychloride. Why is this ingredient used? Bismuth oxycholoride is actually responsible for the distinctive glow that mineral makeup gives to the skin.

What makes experts disagree as to whether or not bismuth oxychloride can be classified as an actual mineral is that it does not occur normally in nature, and is actually a byproduct of the processing of lead and copper.

The use of bismuth oxycholoride and its implications

In addition to the glowing effect that bismuth oxychloride produces, it is also used as a filler agent or to bind the other ingredients in mineral makeup. However, some experts feel that the use of this ingredient entails a certain amount of risk. Bismuth oxychloride can actually irritate the skin of certain susceptible individuals, making them prone to rashes and itching. In fact, in sufficiently large amounts, bismuth oxycholoride can cause a user to develop cystic acne. People that have sensitive skin or those that are prone to acne or rosacea would do best to avoid mineral makeup brands that contain this ingredient.

Should you stay away from mineral makeup entirely?

This is not to say that all mineral makeup brands should be avoided. There are still quite a few mineral makeup products on the shelves that do not contain any bismuth oxycholoride at all, and some that contain very little of this potential irritant. A close inspection of the product labeling and package should tell you if the product that you are considering has it or not. And when in doubt, you can also consult with your doctor as to whether or not a specific product is safe for you to use. In fact, this is good practice for almost any type of product that you intend to use on your skin regularly.

Even if a certain mineral makeup product contains bismuth oxycholoride, it may still be safe for you to use. Remember that not all people will react the same way to all mineral makeup ingredients and if after a few uses you remain free of any adverse reactions, you should be able to go on using that brand.

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