Mineral makeup is the latest thing and it's based on the oldest things. As an all-natural makeup, these mineral-containing makeups are being touted as something that can actually help your skin. There are many cosmetic companies marketing mineral makeups by different names, but all versions of mineral makeup have a common ingredient. They all contain "natural" minerals. The idea behind "Mineral makeup" goes against the more modern use of artificially created compounds and takes its inspiration from minerals and inorganic pigments that exist in nature. Many people prefer the natural colors of the cosmetics and feel they are supporting better health by limiting their exposure to articifial chemicals which make up the ingredients of most cosmetics. These are generally compounds which the body is less likely to be allergic to and many natural minerals also behave as antioxidants. These minerals, such as mica, titanium dioxide, zinc and iron oxides, and ultramarine pigments and even calcium, can be can be combined to make every cosmetic from foundation to eyeshadow to shimmer powder for the body. As with any type of makeup there are some mineral makeups that are expensive and there are some that are inexpensive. But there is no reason to feel you can't afford mineral makeups. A leading cause of wrinkled skin is the heavy and constant application of makeup. After years of makeup use, your skin looses much of its natural elasticity. This is partially due to a lessening of the production of elastin but is also due to a build up of free-radical stress which is very similar to the rust build-up on a car. As human beings evolved, our cells learned to utilize many of these minerals as basic nutrients which support normal cellular function. As many things are absorbed through the skin, many people believe there is a nutritional advantage to using natural compounds as makeup as opposed to artificial chemicals which the cells do not have any use for. Already there are many creams and lotions which are fortified with vitamins and minerals for this exact reason. Instead of waiting for nutrients in our diets to travel through the bloodstream and benefit the cells of the skin, these nutrients are applied directly to the skin so the cells can use them directly. Whether or not this is true, many feel there is certainly a benefit to not applying artificial chemicals to the skin as they will be absorbed and may enter the blood stream. This can lead to alergic effects and other forms of discomfort to the body. If you use makeup, a good choice is mineral makeup. The benefits of mineral makeup cosmetics are advertised to be: 1. Natural look and feel 2. Longer laster--stays on the entire day 3. Better for sensitive skin 4. Anti-inflammatory 5. No harmful ingredients Mineral powders are inorganic and contain no moisture. This means that bacteria can not grow and no preservatives are needed. That means no preservatives against your skin, when you use mineral makeup. The minerals in the makeup are also natural sunscreens which protect you from the harsh effects of the sun. More and more people are switching to mineral makeup which is why many top cosmetic companies are developing entire lines of mineral makeup. They understand market demand and that means you!