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Sep 23, 2008 11:57 pm US/Eastern
CBS 2 HD Consumer Profile: Mineral Makeup
Dermatologists: It's All Natural, But Not Regulated By The FDA, So You're At The Mercy Of The Company
NEW YORK (CBS) ―
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From foundation to blush and eye shadow manufacturers of mineral makeup promise the finely ground formulations provide a natural look that's touted as being better for sensitive skin.
CBS
If you've watched infomercials or walked down a cosmetics aisle lately you've probably noticed the latest trend in the beauty business -- all natural makeup made from minerals.
But are they the real deal or just all hype? CBS 2 HD dug out the truth about mineral makeup.
Titanium Oxide, Zinc Oxide and Mica are usually found in the ground. But now, they're the newest ingredients in makeup. Mineralologist Lawrence Conklin explained how they are ground down and turned into powder.
"It's a black mineral but if you powder it's red," said Conklin.
From foundation to blush and eye shadow manufacturers promise the finely ground formulations provide a natural look that's touted as being better for sensitive skin.
Customers CBS 2 HD spoke to are sold.
"I break out a lot less with this and it's natural it feels lighter," said one.
"It goes on really smoothly and it's flawless," said another believer.
Dermatologists said there are benefits but you still need to look at the ingredients.
"The main advantage to mineral makeup is that it should contain no chemicals, no fragrances, and no preservatives, which can irritate sensitive skin," said Dr. Ariell Kauvar.
Kauvar said the minerals won't cause irritation or inflammation since they aren't absorbed. Instead, they sit on top of your skin.
"They are light so they are less likely to cause acne," said Dr. Vincent Deleo, chairman of the Department of Dermatology at Beth Israel Medical Center and St. Luke's-Roosevelt Hospital.
Deleo acknowledged some benefits but warned there are no rules regulating makeup claims.
"They're not regulated by the Food and Drug Administration so you are pretty much at the mercy of the company," said Deleo.
Since he warned that people are typically allergic to fragrances and preservatives, the following is a list of these commonly used make up ingredients:
Stearic Acid, Sorbitol, Glycerin, C-12-15 Alkyl Benzoate, Sodium Borate -- TEA, Cetyl Alcohol, Dimethicone, Aloe Vera, Phenoxyethanol, Propylene Glycol, Quince Extract, Tocopheryl Acetate, Potassium Sorbate, EDTA, Allantoin, Methyl Paraben, Propyl Paraben, Butyl Paraben, Menthol.
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