Why you Should Avoid Mineral Makeup Containing Bismuth Oxychloride
I am often asked about mineral makeup and whether it’s good or bad and which ingredients to avoid or look out for. Mineral makeup is generally seen as the ‘healthier’, ‘purer’ choice when it comes to foundation, but there are still ingredients lurking in your mineral powders that you might wish to avoid once you discover how they affect your skin. I always recommend to anyone who is looking to switch their makeup to cleaner, more natural alternatives to read the ingredients list of the products. It is all based on personal choice, but I believe we all deserve to know exactly what we are putting on our skin, so we can make an informed decision.
Bismuth Oxychloride is one of those common ‘filler’ ingredients that companies use in their products because it is cheap. Some cosmetic companies will claim this is a natural ingredient. I wouldn’t consider an ingredient that has been synthetically manufactured from bismuth (a metal), oxygen and chlorine a natural product. It is used by mineral makeup brands because it provides a ‘silky’ texture, so it feels nice on the skin and it reflects light so it provides that glowing, high shine effect. Some people react badly to this ingredient, resulting in itchy, irritated skin that can show up as little red bumps, and develop into full blown cystic acne with continued use.
Those with sensitive skin should be particularly wary of this ingredient. As mineral makeup is applied by buffing the powder into the skin, this constant buffing can cause irritation and inflammation. This could cause rosacea to flare up or worsen acne.
If you have been searching for a natural alternative to replace your mineral makeup containing Bismuth Oxychloride, try some of these popular alternatives below that have been a big hit with our customers. These products provide a much safer alternative, using only natural, organic, beneficial ingredients for the skin. They are a much better option for those with sensitive skin, or those prone to acne or rosacea.
ZAO Makeup Mineral Silk Loose Powder
A lightweight, loose powder to use on its own for a light coverage, or on top of liquid foundation to set it in place and provide extra coverage. This powder is perfect for those with oilier skin types as it will provide a matte finish and help stop shine throughout the day. With added skincare benefits from jojoba oil and sesame seed oil, this powder is also soothing for the skin, making it ideal for sensitive skin.
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ZAO Makeup Organic Compact Powder
If you prefer a pressed mineral powder for travelling, this compact powder is a favourite of mine when I am looking for extra coverage, but still want to keep my skin looking natural. As with the loose powder, this can be used over the top of liquid foundation, but bear in mind it will provide a full coverage when the two are used together. Shea butter, cocoa butter and olive leaf extract ensure this powder doesn’t dry out the skin, but leaves it feeling comfortably mattifyed.
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Living Nature Luminous Pressed Powder
For a little more glow and less of a matte effect, this luminous powder from Living Nature could be just what you are after. It contains natural minerals with light reflecting properties to give a subtle glow to the skin. It’s certified organic plant based ingredients provide beneficial skincare properties – Olive fruit oil is great for dry skin and jojoba seed oil is good for fighting off inflammation in acne prone skin.
