1.
Consider sun care. Mineral makeup foundations generally have a natural SPF of 15, because zinc oxide and titanium dioxide both create a physical barrier between your skin and the sun. However, other mineral foundations that are not based around these minerals may not provide the same level of protection.
2.
Set some goals. Decide what you want from your mineral foundation. If you are looking to reduce signs of aging, this may require different ingredients than a foundation that can help alleviate acne. Good mineral foundations can accomplish many types of goals at once.
3.
Look for sparkle. Mineral foundations come in a powdered form and generally contain mica or other sparkly minerals that do not glitter but that will deflect light from wrinkled areas and give your skin a fresh look.
4.
Decide if you want bismuth. Some mineral makeup foundations contain a mineral called bismuth. It is a processed mineral that does not occur naturally, and it gives a golden glow to some types of foundation. Some people really like this look, but others find it to be too bronze. Bismuth can also irritate your skin.
5.
Determine what size particles you are comfortable with. Some mineral makeup companies pulverize their minerals down to nanoparticle size. Some scientists believe that wearing normally non-toxic minerals in this small size may have detrimental effects on your health and your complexion. However, other people think that this just makes the makeup even lighter in weight and more appealing. You will need to determine how finely you want the minerals in your foundation to be ground.
6.
Examine the concentration of the ingredients. Since zinc, titanium and mica have been included in makeup formulas for years, many makeup companies are now trying to cash in on the mineral makeup "hype" by calling their old recipes by new names. Make sure that all natural minerals are the main ingredients in your mineral foundation rather than coming after binders, artificial colors and fake fragrances.
