Question
Hi there,
I’m new to using natural cosmetics. Can you tell me the difference between using mineral-based cosmetics and using cosmetics made with plants & fruit pigments?
Thank you!
Answer
Hey there!
A number of our cosmetic products actually contains both plant extracts (like oils) and minerals. The only products that are 100% mineral are those that you see as loose powders.
Most often minerals are used in our cosmetics as colourants. These are to eliminate the need for chemical colourants and or those that aren’t cruelty-free. That being said, minerals also offer a ton of beneficial properties. Zinc and Titanium Dioxide are 100% natural ingredients that are a healthy alternative to chemical sunscreens. Certain clay minerals also help to detoxify the skin and remove debris and excess sebum from within the pores.
You would actually be hard-pressed to find natural cosmetics that don’t contain some sort of mineral in it. Some natural companies will use fruit pigments as colourants, but will need to add other mineral powders as ‘thickeners’. Usually, these lines don’t offer as many shade options, as fruit pigments really limit your colour ranges. We prefer to use Mica (a 100% organic mineral) that comes in a much wider array of colours.
The only trick to using minerals is to ensure you’re using brands that ensure their minerals are non-micronized. This means that the mineral grains aren’t small enough to be absorbed by the body. We never use micronized minerals in our products and they stay on the surface where they are meant to. Don’t let this fret you though, as non-micronized don’t feel chunky or rough when applied. They are still milled to a super-fine consistency that allows them to blend out and feel velvety soft. The difference is at a microscopic level.
Long story short- minerals have just as many beneficial properties as plant extracts, and some you can’t obtain through plants at all. There is no reason to be afraid of minerals. Both options are great for the skin and it’s really about the quality of formulation and ingredients.
Hope this helps to clarify the difference a bit for you!
With love & radiance,
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