Out of all the products marketed as mineral, foundations are by far my favorite. Foundations take a bit of learning but once you get the hang of the motion, you'll never go back.

Bare Escentuals, often seen as the beginning of the mineral makeup revolution, definitely got the directions right: Tap, Swirl, & Buff. It sounds simple because it is! Simply put your brush into the container (I prefer to put a bit in the lid so its easier to work with if its loose), tap off the excess, & buff it into your skin with circular motions. This helps it to blend in seamlessly with your skin while giving you added coverage.

To choose the perfect mineral foundation, remember a few simple rules:
1. Liquids aren't mineral
2. Less is more

Liquid foundations simply aren't mineral options. Although many brands are slapping the mineral name on them, liquid foundations have to contain some sort of ingredients for preservation. Oils & water are breeding grounds for bacteria, without preservatives the liquids foundation simply wouldn't be hygienic. When I say less is more, I mean the ingredients list. The less ingredients, the more pure & unlikely to produce a skincare reaction. Think of it the same way you would shopping for natural foods, the less ingredients added the more "natural" it actually is!

Some of my personal favorite brands are Everyday Minerals, Mayha Minerals, Bare Escentuals, & PUR Minerals. Normally, you can also view ingredients lists for products online. This can be very helpful in deciding which products you want to try. Also check out written blogs & youtube reviews, they can steer you away from lacking formulas or towards great pigmentation. Many brands are also coming out with their own "natural" or "mineral" makeup line so your favorite brands might have created their own version! Remember to check the ingredients list though, this is what makes products different in the mineral field.

Is mineral makeup for you? Honestly, I think there's room for more in most makeup collections. If you have skin concerns or are trying to "go green" then mineral makeup is an easy switch. With lots of benefits both visually & environmentally, it is definitely worth trying first hand!

Stephanie Louise Telford

Cookinista