Hot rocks

Written: July 2007 

1. I.d. bareMinerals foundation, $70
One of the first mineral foundations, this loose powder is made from 100 per cent pure micronized minerals. It is free from preservatives, talc, oil and other skin irritants making it ideal for sensitive skin. It gives a smooth, radiant finish that’ll leave you positively glowing.

2. ELES Mineral Makeup Sheer Radiance SPF8 $63.50
This hypoallergenic pressed powder is a great alternative to loose powders. It is infused with earth-sourced minerals and features vitamins A, C and E, gingko biloba, ginseng, aloe and chamomile for antioxidant protection. Its light reflectors minimise flaws and dark spots, leaving skin gently illuminated.

3. gloMinerals gloBronze powder, $72
A bronzer that gives your skin more than just a beautiful golden colour. With high-pigment minerals and antioxidants, including green tea and vitamins C, A, K and E, it cares for the skin improving its health and condition. Use it as a mid-winter pick-me-up or in summer for an all-out glow.

4. MAC Mineralise Satinfinish SPF 15 Foundation, $48
This liquid member of the mineral foundation family blends the natural light-reflecting properties of micro-minerals with a smooth satin finish. It gives low to medium coverage with essential broad-spectrum protection and is great for normal to dry skin types.

5. Jane Iredale PurePressed Base, $83
This foundation by mineral make-up legend Jane Iredale is so safe, plastic surgeons and dermatologists recommend it for people suffering from acne, rosacea and redness following treatments such as chemical peels and laser resurfacing. Anti-inflammatory and non-comedogenic, it features inert (not chemically active) minerals which cannot support bacteria, decreasing the risk of acne and other skin irritations. As a massive bonus, it also offers UVB and UVA protection up to SPF20.

6. Cozmetic Lab Blush, $41.60
Give your cheeks the right sort of rosy glow with this non-irritating blush. Created with pure mineral pigments, it’ll leave your skin happy and healthy and is suitable for acne-prone, scarred and rosacea skin types.

7. Fresh Faced Mineral Body Shimmer Powder in Angel, $39.95
Fresh faced by name, fresh faced by nature. This body shimmer) is talc-free, hypoallergenic and blends easily for a glittery finish. Use it on the face to bring out those cheekbones with subtle highlights.

8. I.d. bareMinerals eye shadow, $40
Made from 100 per cent minerals, this creamy, feather-light colour can be used wet or dry for a smooth, crease-free finish. Mix it with other shades for your own individual colour.

9. Suncoat Mineral Eye Shadow, $27
Made with certified organic starch and natural mineral pigments, this eye colour has a smooth liquid texture which glides across the lids. It is talc and preservative free and gives bold, long-lasting colour.

10. Minerelle Foundation Powder, $77
“ I was a bit of mineral make-up sceptic when I tried this powder – I was worried it wouldn’t give the same coverage as my trusty liquid foundation. I couldn’t have been more wrong! It looked just as good (if not better) than my normal make-up and was super easy to apply and build up layers if I wanted. Knowing how good it was for my skin and the protection it was giving was just a bonus. I’m converted.” – Claire, beautyheaven co-ordinator

11. L’Oreal Bare Naturale Powdered Mineral Foundation, $33.95
The coverage of a foundation with the soft, light feel of a powder. Made with essential minerals, this foundation contains aloe and vitamin B5 to soothe and condition skin and vitamin E to protect against free-radical damage.  Plus it comes with its own handy brush to make application even easier.

So what exactly is mineral make-up?
Mineral make-up is made from minerals and inorganic pigments that exist in nature.  Because of their natural origin, minerals are gentle on sensitive skin and can work as an anti-inflammatory. Titanium dioxide and zinc oxide are also beneficial in guarding against sun damage, giving the skin instant, broad-spectrum sun protection.

While mineral make-up in its purest form (made from 100 per cent minerals) is suitable for sensitive, rosacea and post-operative skin, some mineral make-up features a blend of minerals and other ingredients which can be less suitable for those particular skin types. It is important to check the label to ensure it is oil-free, non-comedogenic and does not contain talc and parabens which can irritate sensitive skin and clog pores. The absence of perfumes, chemical dyes and preservatives in mineral make-up also reduces the risk of an allergic reaction.

How to apply
Before applying mineral make-up, apply a light moisturiser and wait for it to dry completely. This is essential as it helps the mineral powder adhere to the skin. If using loose powder, swirl your brush (such as Minerelle Application Brush, $39.60 or Jane Iredale Chisel Powder Brush, $48) in the powder then gentle tap or shake the brush to remove any excess powder. Apply a light layer of the powder in small, circular motions starting at the centre of your face and working your way out towards the hairline, blending as you go. To ensure a smooth, even finish, only use a small amount at a time, building up a series of thin layers until you get the desired coverage.

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