Mica Moves Beyond Mineral Makeup
Posted: December 18, 2006
Mineral makeup continues to increase its popularity. Marketed as a "more natural" alternative to traditional makeup, natural makeup contains elements deemed as naturally good for promoting healthier skin. Mineral makeup companies avoid using synthetic chemicals, talc, dyes and alcohol because they can clog pores and irritate the skin. Instead, key ingredients used in mineral makeup are mica, titanium dioxide, zinc, iron oxides and ultramarine pigments.
Both categories might not have much in common, but mica is one ingredient that has bridged the gap between mineral makeup and traditional makeup. In the debate of whether natural or traditional makeup are more effective, mica is the common ground between the two. Mica is the earth mineral that is responsible for the sparkle and shine in many makeup varieties.
The Mintel Global New Products Database (GNPD) reveals that mica is listed as an ingredient in thousands of cosmetic products. Avon Color Personal Match Smooth Mineral Makeup Powder in the United States (Product Record 612364) contains mica and is labeled natural, containing 100% pure mineral pigments. The product claims it is free of talc, oil and fragrance. Women with oily and problematic skin are often advised to use mineral makeup because of its ability to absorb oil yet still feel lightweight.
Beauty Selectives Savvy Mineral Makeup (Product Record 596280) is another example of a mica-containing mineral makeup product recently launched in the United States. Most mineral makeup claims to give natural-looking coverage, however Savvy Mineral Makeup actually claims that it is pure enough to wear all day long, 24-7.
Mica is listed as a key ingredient in two of three elements of the Bare Escentuals Pink Passion Rose Radiance Collection (Product Record 606728). The collection features All-Over Face Color and Lip Gloss that both contain mica to maximize shimmer accents. US-based Bare Escentuals is well-known for the rising popularity of the company’s natural mineral cosmetics.