Mineral cosmetics are the latest styling mantra. Whether consumers or brands, none can ignore the rage created by mineral cosmetics. However, what is strange is the fact that, mineral cosmetics are not essentially a new concept. A small company made them some years ago and since then, they attained overnight fame, where suddenly everyone, is all praises for mineral cosmetics.

Could there be a reason behind this trend, that is the slow progress of mineral cosmetics, or is it just a matter of chance? Mineral cosmetics have their own flaws, which are obviously not advertised by the highly competitive mineral cosmetic market. These flaws are not necessarily common to all mineral makeup brands and the exact situation varies, with the manufacturing style. But a deeper insight helps.

Few Ingredients That Could Adversely Affect The Skin

Mineral cosmetics are made from natural elements present in earth and are therefore, considered to be quite safe for skin. However, there are various components present in them that could be harmful.

§Titanium Dioxide - An extremely important component of mineral cosmetics, Titanium Dioxide is found in majority of mineral cosmetics, irrespective of the brand producing cosmetics. However, this ingredient is still under scrutiny for its possible connotation with cancer.

§Mica - Mica is used in mineral cosmetics to help reduce the appearance of enlarged pores and fine lines. Quiet a famous component, Mica, is bio-accumulative and is considered toxic to the liver and the gastrointestinal and respiratory systems. Not to mention, the Cosmetic Industry Review Board has not scrutinized Mica, which is yet approved by FDA, for usage as a component in cosmetics.

§Ultramarine Colors - Ultramarine colors are used to cool down foundations. However, the same are not approved in the United States for use on lips.

§Silica - Used as an absorbent and oil control product, in mineral cosmetics, Silica, may be contaminated with small quantities of crystalline quartz. The crystalline quartz is considered to be carcinogenic and must be avoided.

Additionally, there are various other ingredients that could cause irritation or allergy to different skin types.

An analysis of the mentioned simply reflects, the FDA's casual regulation policies, towards cosmetics in general and mineral cosmetics in particular. Many procedures and ingredients, have not been aptly tested by the Cosmetic Industry Review Board, but are still legal, as have been approved by FDA. Skin is important and damage to the same is possible, if cosmetics are not used prior to apt research.

The Color Compromise - Mineral cosmetics if considered in their 100% natural form, do not offer many color options. For a pure mineral cosmetic, the color liking must be sacrificed. However, many companies add dyes to mineral cosmetics, thus providing, the desired shade chart. But if dyes are to be used, then why so much propaganda, against regular cosmetics, which too have dyes in their composition?

The Talc Controversy - Many believe that talc accentuates wrinkles and not to mention, the same is used in mineral cosmetics. Technically speaking, talc is Magnesium Silicate Hydroxide. Various studies conducted over time, have established a link, between talc and pulmonary tissues, ovarian cancer, and lung, which is even a major concern than the earlier mentioned wrinkles. Please note here, that no conclusive study has yet been made, to determine either the toxicity and/or carcinogenic nature of talc, thus leaving the entire matter in a gray area.

The Impact - Cosmetics are applied for that ultimate look and not a smudgy or heavy mask kind of a feel. But many feel, that this is what mineral cosmetics have to offer. There are further complaints, that mineral products emphasize, upon the fine lines and pores and impart an even aged look.

The ally of mineral cosmetics however, alleges that it is about fine application procedures and manufacturing steps. The finer the minerals, the less shinier they appear. As for the smudgy look, application tips like dabbing with wet sponge, could help.

Despite the debate, mineral cosmetics are gaining in popularity. Bad as they might sound, the mineral version of makeup is still better than their counterpart, the regular cosmetics, which are quite harmful.