Have you heard through the beauty product grapevine about the benefits of makeup made from minerals? If not, you probably haven't been paying attention! "Mineral makeup" may be the latest trend in the cosmetic industry, but its ingredients are as old as the hills. While it is marketed by different companies under different names, minerals are the common ingredient in all of them.

Mineral makeup is true to its name; it is made solely from minerals and inorganic pigments found in nature. Many combinations of these colored minerals, such as mica, titanium dioxide, zinc and iron oxides, as well as ultramarine pigments, can be used to make a wide range of cosmetics, from foundation to eye shadow and lipstick.

Beauty experts have known for a long time that one of the leading causes of wrinkles is the heavy and consistent application of makeup. According to Dr. Bianca Tavares, a medical consultant with experience in both traditional and complementary medicine, traditional makeup products can cause damage to the skin if worn over time for prolonged periods without adequate cleansing. The advent of mineral makeup to the cosmetic counters, she says, is a major breakthrough in healthy skincare.

Because it doesn't include any chemical additives, such as dyes, oils, waxes or preservatives, mineral makeup won't damage your skin; in fact, there is a very good chance it will improve it.

The benefits of mineral makeup include:

• UV protection - Mineral-based foundations and powders contain zinc oxide and titanium dioxide, which act as a protective coating for your skin by blocking harmful effects of the sun. The most recent advances in mineral makeup combine the best of the traditional formulations (like natural SPF) with powerful protective antioxidants like green tea and soy, which can help fight damage from sun exposure and pollution.



• Anti-aging ingredients - The latest mineral makeup includes natural forms of vitamins A, C and E, which have antioxidant benefits that help prevent premature aging of the skin.



• Anti-inflammation - Because it is all-natural, there is little risk of skin irritation from the ingredients in mineral makeup, making it a good option for sensitive skin and those of us prone to allergic reactions.



• Easy application and long-lasting wear - When applied to clean, moisturized skin, mineral makeup doesn't smear or run, and because mineral powders are inorganic and do not contain moisture, your make up will stay put, even if you sweat.

Mineral makeup costs about as much as traditional makeup you might buy at a department store cosmetic counter. Some brands, like Bare Escentuals and GloMinerals, are sold at Sephora and other specialty beauty supply stores. Spas and salons sometimes carry their own lines, while drug stores carry less pricey products, like Neutrogena Mineral Sheers for eyes ($8).

Below are some tips for applying mineral makeup from Alejandro Falcon, a makeup artist with Caleel + Hayden, which manufactures GloMinerals.

• Moisturize first. Minerals don't adhere well to dry skin.



• Use brushes with natural bristles if you're applying loose powder or compacts.



• Use brushes with synthetic fibers when applying liquid makeup such as foundation. Synthetic fibers resist absorption.



• Wash your brushes. Use a light shampoo - no conditioner - on your natural bristles, and a gentle facial cleanser or baby shampoo on your synthetic brushes.



• Apply evenly. Too much mineral makeup will give off a cakey, heavy look. Too little, and the sun protection benefits won't be as effective.