All you have heard is true, natural cosmetics offer fewer irritants, a beautiful finish and built-in sunscreen. Department store and drugstore cosmetics–especially foundations–can actually be rough on your skin.

Women often find that in making the switch to natural makeup products, their Skin skin problems clear up. They’re formulated in a way that often will not aggravate acne, eczema or rosacea, and are free of the dyes and chemicals that cause allergic reactions in many people. So, instead of aggravating or causing problems in the skin, natural cosmetics have the potential to calm and heal them.

No preservatives are needed for organic cosmetic products like mineral makeup because there’s no liquid and no way for bacteria to grow inside of it. Two more positives: it looks natural and stays on all day! Even if you sweat, your makeup’s not going anywhere. It’s also easy to customize your own colors. Just take two shades and mix them together in a sifter jar. Voila! Your own perfect match.

What’s In Them?

We’ve already established that there’s no moisture–and therefore no
bacteria. We’ve also said that true mineral makeups are “all natural.”
But what does that mean?

Natural cosmetics are a mixture of mica, iron oxide, titanium dioxide and zinc oxide. Different lines add other natural ingredients to make their own formula unique. The mica is what gives you a glowing finish because of its light-reflective qualities. The titanium dioxide acts as natural protection from the sun. Some contain bismuth oxychloride, which could be an irritant for extremely sensitive skin, so check the ingredients before you buy–especially if you already know bismuth won’t work for you.

All natural cosmetics are not created equal, so if one doesn’t work for you, try another. Most lines offer samples of their foundations so you can try without too much of an investment.

There’s a little bit of technique to learning how to apply mineral makeup, but after a time or two, it’ll be a breeze. Application takes no time at all.

Foundation

For this you’ll need a large powder brush, also known as a kabuki brush. You can often purchase one with your mineral makeup. Or you can pick one up at Target. Sonia Kashuk makes a great line of brushes and they’re sold there.

1. Sprinkle just a bit of the foundation into the jar’s lid or onto a piece of foil.
2. Swirl and tap your kabuki brush around in the foundation. You should have very little on the brush when you first apply to your face.
3. Start at the jaw line and move the brush in circles, as if you’re buffing the foundation into your skin.
4. Pick up a little more foundation; apply to the other side of your face the same way.
5. Move on to the forehead, nose and chin. The foundation will take a few minutes to “meld” with your skin and may look a bit chalky initially. After a few minutes you should be able to tell if you need more coverage.
6. If you do, add a little more. Once you do this one or two days, you’ll be able to determine just how much you need without waiting for it to “meld.” The application process will go much quicker then.
7. If you have extra left in the lid, tap it back into the jar. If you used a piece of foil and have some remaining foundation on it, fold up the foil and save it for tomorrow.

Color-Corrector

You apply these before the foundation if needed in exactly the same manner. What these do is balance out discolorations in your overall skin tone. If you suffer from the redness of rosacea or eczema, you might want to try a green powder. Overdo it a bit with the sunless tanner? Try blue to counteract the orange. This will give you a more uniform canvas before you even put the foundation on.

Eye Shadow

Mineral eye shadow is still made from the same basic ingredients as the foundation and color-correcting powders. They’ll need a base to help them stick to your lids, so apply concealer first. If you’d rather try a traditional base, check out Urban Decay’s Primer Potion, L’Oreal’s De-crease or one of MAC’s Shadesticks. Natural cosmetics lines offer eye shadows in all the same finishes as drugstore eye shadows. You’re not stuck with just flat color.

On the contrary, mineral eye shadows are quite vibrant and easily blended with an eye shadow brush. Applied wet or with a mixing medium, they make beautiful liners or exciting flashes of color for your lids.

A set of eye shadow brushes will work better for applying loose powder shadow than a sponge-tip applicator. For wet lining, try a stiff-bristled, angled brush. Sprinkle a bit onto a piece of foil or your hand, dampen your brush, and dip into the shadow. Don’t dip a wet brush into the whole jar of shadow.

Blush

Natural cosmetics offer blushes that give you a natural glow. The mica reflects light and gives you a youthful, healthy appearance. You can also mix blushes together in a separate jar or on a piece of foil to get your own perfect color.

1. Tap a small amount of product into the lid or foil.
2. Then tap a slightly smaller brush than you used for foundation into the blush, starting with just a small amount and building from there.
3. Sweep it onto your cheeks like any other blush.
4. You’re done!

Concealer

Concealers come in color-correcting colors as well, but the most popular is a multi-tasker. It’s matched to your skin and choice of foundation colors. You can apply it to blemishes or under eye circles with a concealer brush. Those have stiff bristles and a tapered point for strategic application. You put the concealer on before your foundation, then buff the foundation all over. When you’re done, the two will be blended together and your face will be virtually flawless.

Perhaps you’ve only seen it on infomercials or in finer makeup stores, but mineral makeup is quickly gaining popularity with those who like to use cosmetics.

What Is Mineral Makeup?

Mineral Makeup is a type of cosmetic cover-up that is made of completely natural minerals. Minerals such as zinc, iron oxides, ultramarine, titanium oxide, bismuth oxychloride and mica are all finely ground into a powder that is gently dusted onto the face with a makeup brush. Using the brush to work the makeup over all surfaces, you can achieve an even, natural looking layer of complimentary color that enhances your appearance and gives your skin a healthy glow due to the reflective quality of some of the mineral compositions such as mica.

Advantages over Conventional Makeup

1. Bacterial Content

Mineral makeup is naturally very dry, being a loose powder. Most conventional makeup is either in liquid form or uses some kind of bonding agent to hold the compact together. You may have noted that most commercial cosmetics have an expiration date because they will build up bacteria after a short time due to their
moisture content, which bacteria need to survive. In turn, you may have to throw these cosmetics away even if you haven’t fully used the whole container. Not very penny wise, is it?

Because it’s completely dry, makeup created from pure minerals does not support bacterial growth, so it’s safe for long term use.

2. Humidity

Conventional makeup doesn’t have much staying power in the best of circumstances. As it already has some moisture content, normal makeup isn’t able to absorb very much excess facial oil or sweat. Add in humid conditions, and regular makeup just seems to melt away, leaving you with creases, shine and a lack of a healthy
coloration. Mineral makeup has the ability to weather humid conditions and stay
put on your face for the entire day, so you always look great.

3. Skin Condition

Conventional cosmetics like liquid foundations can clog your pores even some that claim to be non-comedogenic. Many also contain alpha hydroxyl, and other chemical components designed to remove the outermost layer of skin in an effort to make you appear younger. Some people are very sensitive to these anti-ageing products, finding their skin becomes dry and inflamed. Artificial fragrances and preservatives can also cause allergic reactions for some people.

Mineral makeup is actually nourishing for your skin, helping to block harmful UV rays, and giving you great coverage without the inflammatory effects of conventional cosmetics. Since only pure minerals and non-organic pigments are used, you shouldn’t experience pore clogging in most cases. Many users notice a dramatic improvement in the quality of their skin within a short time of using mineral makeup.

Follow this technique and your makeup should look terrific.

1. Step One: Prime

Prepare your face by washing with a gentle moisturizing cleanser. You may apply an extra moisturizer if you need it, but note that you will wind up with a heavier layer of mineral base, which you may or may not like. Simply experiment with the amount of coverage you’d like until you discover the perfect combination.

1. Step Two: Foundation

Pour a small amount of mineral foundation powder into the container’s lid, and swirl your makeup brush around in it. Now give the brush a tap on the edge of the container to remove any excess powder and begin brushing the minerals onto your face. Work from your T-zone outward, swirling the brush into all creases until you’ve achieved a nice even coverage that you’re pleased with.

1. Step Three: Blush

With a container of blush mineral powder in your chosen shade, use the same technique to load the brush and begin lightly dusting your cheeks, being sure to follow your natural bone structure. You can also apply a very light dusting to enhance other areas of your face, such as the chin, forehead and nose. Be sure to go very light in these areas to give just the slightest hint of a warm glow, or else you could wind up looking like a clown.

1. Step Four: Eye Shadow

The general rule of thumb for eye shadow is use three complimentary shades that look best with your skin coloring.

• Apply the lightest shade just under your brow line.

• Apply the medium shade to your main eyelid and use your finger to blend where the two colors meet.

• Apply the deepest color in the natural crease line of your lids to accentuate the depth, then blend lightly with your fingers to soften the line.

• Use a small brow brush to apply a little
mineral mascara powder to your lashes and brows if needed to finish the look.

By now, you should look fantastic and ready to face the day or evening.

Is It Worth the Price?

Bargain brands of makeup may cost a lot less, but they usually use an inferior grade of ingredients. Mineral makeup runs in the same price range as high end cosmetics, and since you don’t have to worry about an expiration rate, they may actually be a better value for your dollar. The only way to know for sure is to try a small introductory kit and see if this type of cosmetics works best for you.

Choosing which one is right for you might simply be a matter of shopping around. Here, we highlight the best of the best; those that have stood the test of time, made a remarkable impression and made women look supermodel-fresh day in and day out!

* Benefit Benetint: Probably the one product that truly fueled the lip stain obsession, Benetint is an industry classic. Its liquid consistency and light rose scent make it unique, but its lasting color is what keeps people coming back time and again.

* Stila Lip and Cheek Stain:
This water-based fluid stain is available in seven diverse colors, ranging from My Sunshine (a warm red) to Baby Boo (a fresh raspberry-pink).

* Tarte Rise & Shine Plumping Lip
Stain: This ingenious product pairs a lip stain (in your choice of four colors) on one end with a plumping lip gloss on the other end. Ideal when you’re in a hurry and can’t commit to doing a full face of makeup, this instantly brightens you up!

* Stila Raspberry Crush Lip & Cheek Stain: Despite its trendy nature, Stila easily churns out some of the most classic colors out there. Lip & Cheek Stain is available in three shades (pink, berry and bronze) and hydrates the lips with its water-rich, gel-based formula.

You’ll notice when applying your lip stain that the product is not moisturizing. They dry quickly (hence the stain they leave behind), so if you are concerned about parched lips, you’ll want to moisturize beforehand. A good idea is to swipe on your lip balm of choice 15 or 20 minutes prior to applying the stain. This will allow your moisturizer to sink in, and it won’t be as sticky – which will in
turn allow your lip stain to adhere beautifully to your lips!

Where to Purchase

It’s a great idea to add a tube or two of this versatile product to your cosmetic bag. The natural effect left behind is a great way to achieve a flawless look in a matter of seconds. Purchase all of the above mentioned stains, and many more by clicking on each picture.

A natural lip stain is a fresh alternative to lipstick or lip gloss. In fact, this product has become increasingly popular in recent years thanks to the many companies that have started offering it as a regular part of their lineups.

Give your lips a natural, fresh hue.

Years ago, the old “YLBB” acronym was tossed around between makeup addicts without a second thought. The desire to achieve a look similar to “your lips, but better” was always something of a mission. Even today, finding the perfect shade to enhance the natural lip without bringing too much color to the palette is something many women have trouble with.

Fortunately, it’s not just about seeking out the perfect nude lipstick anymore. Now, “natural” means something much more fresh and radiant than it did previously. Sure, there’s still a time and place for the soft nude lip, but today’s color is a chic, updated hue that brings life to the entire face. It’s vibrant enough to be worn alone, yet isn’t so bright that it dominates a woman’s overall look.

We’re talking about the natural lip stain. Easy to apply, quickly to blend in and so simple to find a complementary match, these stains are a must in any woman’s beauty arsenal.

More Versatile Than You Think!

Just because they’re called lip stains doesn’t mean they can’t be used for anything else. In fact, one of the world’s most popular lip stains, Benefit Benetint, is also renowned for its ability to add a gorgeous flush to the cheeks! Many lip stains are now marketed as “lip/cheek” stains or washes.

If you use your lip stain to enhance your cheekbones, you’ll want to make sure you blend it exceptionally well. Stains do have a tendency to dry and settle in very quickly, so it’s important to blend, blend, and blend immediately upon application.

Who Makes the Best Natural Lip Stain?

Lip stains are so common that there’s now a whole section devoted to them at beauty giants like Sephora. Obviously that means there’s a greater selection than ever before. While one would hope that each has something different to offer, the truth is that there isn’t too much disparity between them. The greatest differences lie in the color selection (although that is limited, as a lip stain is generally a pinkish or reddish flush) and product consistency.

For the gal who wants to capture the beauty of a Hollywood
starlet, a sexy and glamorous palette is a necessity. To create a sexy siren look, follow these tips:

* Eyes: Apply a nude or ivory eye shadow
allover eyelid.

* Liner: With a steady hand, draw a sweeping cat eye from rim to rim. For more information on how to create this look, check out our cat eye makeup article.

* Mascara: Curl eyelashes and apply several coats of jet black mascara.

* Lips: Plump lips with a lip plumping product such as Too Faced Lip Injection in Techno Kiss.

Chic Ideas

If you wish to capture a chic and polished look with minimal effort, you’ll need to keep your palette simple and clean. To create a modern and timeless palette, follow these tips:

* Eyes: Apply a white or ivory eye shadow liberally across both eyelids.

* Smoke: Once the white or ivory shadow is applied, create a smoky eye by sweeping gray or black shadow into the crease of the eyelid.

* Line: Line eyelids with a dark brown or black eyeliner and smudge the line, blending with your eye shadow brush.

* Blush: Keep blush sparse and minimal. For a universally flattering shade, check out Nars blush in Orgasm.

* Lips: For a polished look, lips should be chic and neutral. Line lips with a neutral lip liner, and top with a nude lipstick such as Nars lipstick in Belle de Jour.

Once you’ve gathered all the supplies to create your prom makeup palette, spend a few nights practicing the application to ensure you’ve worked out any kinks. Techniques such as the smoky or the cat eye can be tricky to master. If need be, seek out a family member or friend that can help create your look, and rely on their expertise while dressing for your magical night. 

Once you’ve determined whether your dress is flirty and fun, romantic and old fashioned, sexy and shapely or chic and polished, you’re ready to create a cosmetic palette that will continue this look from head to toe.

Flirty Ideas
Cosmetics are fun and festive. Certainly not a wallflower, you’re ready to dance the night away. For a flirty makeup look, follow these tips:

* Eyes: Keep the eyes flirty with a bright
and sparkly eye shadow. Glitter shadows are a must! Shop for a pearl or ivory shimmer eye shadow and layer it liberally on your lids.

* Lips: Flirty lips should be glossy and
kissable. A lip stain will provide endless hours of color, while a clear lip gloss will add the shine that you’ll love while out on the dance floor.

* Blush: Keep your cheeks rosy and cheerful
with a cream blush.

* Glitter: Lightly brush glitter allover
your shoulders, chest, and cheekbones for a festive and playful look.

Romantic Ideas

For the true romantic, prom night is the perfect occasion for showcasing your feminine side. To create a romantic palette, follow these tips:

* Eyes: Sweep a taupe eye shadow over eyelids. Use a deeper shade of brown or taupe to lightly fill in the crease of the eyelid.

* Lips: A rose tinted lipstick is universally flattering and sure to highlight your romantic side. Line lips with a neutral lip liner and fill in lips with a mauve or pink-brown lipstick.

* Cheeks: Keep cheeks sweet and peachy with an apricot blush. Apply blush liberally on the apples of the cheeks.

* Shimmer: Add a touch of feminine sheen to your look by sweeping a subtle shimmer cream or lotion across your cheekbones.