Overview
Mineral makeup consists of finely powdered minerals, not liquid, that you put on your face as a foundation. Some manufacturers have claimed their mineral makeup lines are waterproof. However, the FDA no longer allows them to say that, according to Iredale Mineral Cosmetics, a well-known manufacturer. That's because - you guessed it - no makeup is completely waterproof.
Water-Resistance
Now that the word "waterproof" is a no-no, the most that companies can say about their mineral makeup is that it is "very water-resistant," after it gets tested underwater on a real human. This rating means that the SPF or sun protection factor of the makeup will stay put after it has been submerged in moving water for 80 minutes. It will stay on your skin in wet conditions, like when it rains and when you sweat, as noted by Bren Mineral Makeup. It also remains on your face when you jump in the pool.
Features
If your face gets wet, do not wipe your makeup. That will rub it off, and you will have to start over and put on a new face. Just pat your face dry with a towel. Better lines of mineral makeup products have a higher mineral content. Chances are -- surprise, surprise -- that will cost you more. There may also be vitamins like A, E and C included to nourish your skin.
Ingredients
The powdered minerals are supposed to reflect light, which gives your face a nice glow. Don't think the makeup is made by grinding up minerals from exotic locations and tossing them together. Also, not everything in them occurs in nature. The mineral powders might include clay and boron nitride for making them stick and stay on, zinc oxide and titanium dioxide for ultraviolet protection, bismuth oxychloride for smoothness and texture, and mica for shine. Sometimes there are cheaper fillers in the powder, like talc. Less filler means more concentrated color and more glow for your face.
Additional Info
Some manufacturers will cut corners and sneak in lower-quality mineral powders, as well as more filler, coloring, dyes and binders. You want more minerals and less fluff. Look for a "very water-resistant" rating. If the SPF is at least 15, the makeup can double as a sunscreen, which is nifty because it means one less thing to put on your face. Also, since the makeup is water-resistant, use facial cleanser or eye makeup remover to take it off, as recommended by Paula's Choice, a skin products website.
