Mineral makeup is the latest fad. But, before you go on to stock your beauty kit with these products, make sure you steer clear of those that are laden with harmful chemicals like bismuth oxychloride. Though it might help in providing the starry shine to your face, it slowly and gradually deteriorates it. This article throws light on the same.
Mineral makeup has already become a hit in the world of cosmetics. Characterized by ingredients that comprise only natural minerals, these products are much safer for use than the regular ones. Many brands have already established themselves as stalwarts in this area of the cosmetic industry.
Although they are widely marketed as ‘made with all minerals that are completely natural’, sometimes they might contain some chemically-produced ingredients, too. While there is a debate regarding the safety of the user as they contain extremely tiny particles which might be inhaled, there are a number of fans of such makeup products due to the classic finish it gives to the skin. The latest debate is about the inclusion of bismuth oxychloride in these products.
Before we move on, let’s understand what exactly is it. Bismuth occurs naturally in very small amounts and is not safe to be used in cosmetics, unless refined and combined with other products. It is refined through various processes to remove toxic elements like lead. On chlorination of this processed bismuth, bismuth chloride is formed. Later, the process of hydrolysis is carried out which results in bismuth oxychloride. The FDA has approved it as a safe product that can be used in mineral makeup. So, use of makeup products that contain bismuth oxychloride is not unsafe for the skin.
Why Omit It?
Basically, there are people who are enjoying the use of mineral make up as it is. This ingredient helps the makeup cling on to your skin for a longer time and in a better way. Moreover, that radiant pearly finish which one gets after application of powder or liquid makeup is due to this element. It adds a soft sheen to your skin and covers up the fine lines, wrinkles, and discolored patches of skin.
You might still be wondering then why are makeup brands going, ‘bismuth oxychloride free’! Many people have sensitive skin. Some suffer from acne and pimples. The cause of itching and rashes even after use of safe makeup is known to be bismuth oxychloride. Make up foundation containing this element is also known to cause cystic acne. Some have also reported extreme burning sensation, redness, and small bumps after using mineral makeup, and the element causing this is known to be bismuth oxychloride. As mentioned above, the element is FDA-approved as a safe one to be used in beauty products. But some people might be allergic to this element, which leads to such skin reactions.
Brands in Market
There are various brands launching product lines without its inclusion. Some of them are Southern Magnolia Minerals (SMM) cosmetics, Mineral Pure Makeup, BellaPierre, Minerale Mineral Makeup, Sheer Miracle Naturals Mineral Makeup, Luxury Mineral Makeup, and Illuminare Cosmetics Mineral Makeup.
Doesn’t matter if you have dry or oily skin, it is all about whether the products suit your skin. While some might be absolutely okay with it, others might notice some allergic reactions. Remember that, makeup is not always about following the latest trends, but using what suits you the best.