Q: I’ve heard mineral makeup is better and more natural for my skin but I think I’m allergic to it. I’ve tried several drugstore brands and even the more expensive department store brands, but I break out with little red bumps and my face and eyes start to itch within a few minutes. Can you help?
A: There’s a reason Cleopatra and Nefertiti had their cosmetics finely ground from rocks and quartz! There is a definite advantage to using mineral makeup over traditional formulations. They are naturally non-comedogenic, non-toxic and have natural bacteriostatic and anti-inflammatory properties. It provides great coverage and is like applying a healing salve all in one. We use it regularly in the office after dermatologic procedures to cover up redness or discoloration and to promote healing.
A well made mineral formulation should have no binders and be free of additives such as mineral oil, talc, perfumes, and preservatives. Most important is that it should not contain bismuth oxychloride, a byproduct of lead and copper processing. It is a bi-product of antimony (a fire retardant used in microelectronics) and arsenic (used in pesticides and semi-conductors). This element is a huge skin irritant that worsens conditions such as acne and rosacea. It is also a very common reason women complain of eye irritation from using mineral makeup. It can lead to itchiness, irritation, pustules and clogged pores. Your eyes are irritated because that’s your body’s way of signaling you that you’re using something it doesn’t like. If you don’t stop it will just get worse until you get the message! Unfortunately, cosmetic manufacturers continue to use it primarily because it’s inexpensive so it keeps costs down.
Some common brands that contain Bismuth Oxychloride are: Au Courant, Bare Escentuals, Baresense pureMinerals, Colorscience, EMANI, Face, etc., Glominerals, Jane Iredale, La Bella Donna, Mineral Secrets, Philosophy The Supernatural Powder Airbrushed Canvas, Pixxidust Minerals, Pur Minerals, Sheer Cover, True Colors, and Youngblood. I would recommend trying my formulation.
I hope I’ve answered your question!
Warm regards,
Dr. Dima