Mineral Makeup: My Facial Routine

To tell you the truth…I first bought my own complete basic set of makeup last fall for my birthday! Previously, I had a mixed and match set of this and that, without very much knowledge as to how to apply it in the first place. My younger sister, far more knowledgeable in this area than myself (maybe due to her stronger incline to fashion), has taught me most of what I know. With the purchase of my own set, I was simply thrilled!

With my desire to pursue more natural routines in our home, I looked into mineral makeup. Beware that not all mineral makeup is worthy of your use. My research has proved two companies to be readily available:

BareMinerals & Everyday Minerals

I purchased the basic starter set of BareMinerals (as it is sold in many stores) and since have simply loved it! It was a bit spendy for that original purchase ($60), but I still have a significant supply (and its been over 9 months), while applying it probably five times a week! It is so natural looking, matches my skin tones nicely, nothing caked on (like liquid foundation), gentle to your skin, without any harmful chemicals, preservatives, binders or fillers. The set comes with a wonderful CD that shows you how to apply the makeup. That is exactly what I needed! The only downside…it has occasionally caused a bit of burning feel to my skin. Hmm…so I decided to do a bit more research…

EveryDay Minerals offers more shades of foundations and provide free samples (with the cost of shipping) in order for you to find the perfect match. The free kit includes: 3 foundations; 1 blush; and 1 concealer! Even better, you get to choose the shades from a much wider variety than Bare Minerals has to offer. The customer is responsible for paying the shipping fees, which is less than $5.00, but $5.00 for mineral make-up didn’t seem like such a bad deal. Their main kits are about half the price of BareMinerals.

The foundation of both products also offers a natural sun protection at SPF15 and still is chemical-free.

Both mineral makeup foundations are made of four ingredients:

  • Titanium Dioxide
  • Zinc Oxide
  • Mica
  • Iron Oxide

Whereas most other makeup products have an extravagant list of unknown ingredients.

One interesting thing to note: BareMinerals also includes Bismuth Oxychloride.

I read this information from one website: For women with sensitive skin, this is important to note. Bismuth Oxychloride is a by-product of lead mining and can cause skin irritation in some women…Bismuth Oxychloride is also what gives Bare Minerals foundations their characteristic sheen.”

Apparently, this product is non-toxic, but does not naturally occur in nature.

Another site provided the following information: “[Bismuth] is a very heavy element…It has to be forced into the pores (hence the buffing technique) otherwise it is capable of sliding off the wearer’s face. The heaviness can result in clogged pores or irritated skin…Mineral makeup companies that do not use it have a lighter feeling makeup that usually blends into the skin better and with less effort.”

So it does not appear to be toxic, but may cause skin irritation for sensitive users. That may just very well be me! Has anyone tried both brands and compared the two? Reviews definitely point me in the way of Everyday Minerals in the future…if I ever use up my current set.

So my current facial routine includes:

1. Lotion/Moisturizer - coconut oil (a wonderful natural product for your skin! Works for so many things – but just a little dab will do you!)
2. BareMineral Make-up - includes powdered fountain, warmth, mineral veil (finishing powder) and glee (blush). For my skin tone I have the fairly light/light set.
The basic set does not have eye-shadow, but you can purchase those separately. I have one color which I don’t use very frequently (as time allows!), but do really like it (it’s a shimmery brown). I also have a basic mascara, and use Burt’s Bees lip shimmers for lipstick on occasion, which are also very nice and made of quality ingredients. That’s about it!
3. Make-up remover - I use a basic soap to wash the makeup off at the end of the day. Currently I use either burt’s bees facial shampoo, or Dr. Bronner’s liquid castile soaps to clean my skin at the end of the day. Works wonderfully. Mineral makeup is so easy to remove you don’t need any expensive special removal product.

That’s it! As you may already know, I love simplicity! Another thing I appreciate about BareMinerals is the simplicity of this basic kit – just 4 different products. Sometimes I can just wear the foundation and the warmth, a little mascara, and still look nice (like today for instance – when time does not permit everything). My husband appreciates simplicity too…as I don’t take all day in the bathroom (10 minutes max!) and he often could care less whether or not I have make up on in the first place. So rather than having 10 different colors of eye shadow, and piles of facial products, simplify!

Further Resources:

Skin Deep, Cosmetic Safety Data – this site provides a wealth of information on all body products to help you learn which are toxic or non-toxic for your skin. At the same time, it is very confusing to me! I have mixed feelings about the truthfulness of linking everything to cancer. BareMinerals comes out around a 3 (moderate hazard) whereas Everyday Minerals is 1-2 (low hazard) on the toxic score.
Mineral Makeup and Bismuth Oxycholoride

Facial Products, Are Healthy & Frugal Choices Possible? - My friend Kimi, at the Nourishing Gourmet, reviewed Everyday Minerals on her old blog. Check it out!

What natural products do you use on your skin? How do they compare? How could you start simplifying your facial routine?

About Lindsay

Lindsay Edmonds is first a lover of Jesus, wife, mother of four, homemaker, and writer. She loves inspiring women around the world toward simple, natural, and intentional living for the glory of God.

71 Responses to Mineral Makeup: My Facial Routine

  1. Jamasina August 16, 2012 at 11:13 pm #

    I simplify by not wearing make-up. Haha. ;-)

  2. Nicole Greene May 17, 2010 at 7:54 am #

    Do you have any trouble with the Coconut Oil causing break-outs? I know that everyone’s skin is different but also read here: http://www.soapnuts.com/noncomo.html That coconut oil is highly Comedogenic. I tried it a couple years ago and sure enough it made my skin break out pretty bad. This is going to sound weird but the only thing I use on it now that has actually worked is Petroleum Jelly. Yep, plain old Vaseline. At least it has 0 toxins that will get into my skin! But, I know that my skin needs to let toxins out and I think it also blocks that, so I am on the hunt once again for something that works…

  3. Emma Davis April 29, 2010 at 5:44 am #

    Jane Iredale, though, does have seaweed extracts, which are highly comedegenic and can cause acne in sensitive folks. Also, their lightest shade is pretty tan (for those super pale ladies like me).

  4. Emma Davis April 29, 2010 at 5:42 am #

    Lindsay, have you checked out Alima? Their website is alimapure.com . I have tried 7 different mineral foundations, and am over the MOON for Alima! They're a small, independent company, but they have VERY professional packaging and their customer care is bar none. They have 60 different foundation shades, but somehow it's very easy to choose your shade.

    They only have 4 ingredients: “Titanium Dioxide (CI 77891), Zinc Oxide (CI 77947) Mica (CI 77019). May contain [+/-]: Iron Oxides (CI 77491, CI 77492, CI 77499). Nothing more.”

    I'm sensitive to bismuth oxychloride and tend to distrust larger cosmetic companies. I've been happier than a clam with Alima! You can sample foundation for 1.50, and that sample lasted me 6 weeks of nearly daily use.

    • Abigail Smith June 9, 2011 at 11:42 am #

      Just recently found Alima and share your same sentament, Emma! They are amazing with their extensive foundation choices (essential for us fair skinned ladies) and they don’t give me that oily “sheen” look that Bare Escentuals is well known for causing.

  5. Dia March 28, 2010 at 9:52 pm #

    Great to hear that Bare Minerals came out with a B.O. free line. I used their products first, & enjoy them, too. I got the ‘platinum’ kit awhile ago, for ~ $30 (special).

    No one’s mentioned my favorite mineral make-up either – http://cmhessentials.com – I’ve ordered twice, & just get the tiny sample sizes ($1.95, sometimes seperately, at others in kits.) & they last for MONTHS! Christina is SUPER sweet to work with – if you want slightly different colours in the ‘kit,’ you just fill that out on check out (no extra charge!).
    She always has a discount coupon on the site,so I haven’t had to pay anything for shipping, & it comes quite quickly. I love the variety of colours, & she has great info on what to look for, & good prices on brushes, if you need those.

    I’ll be 60 in the fall, & am blessed with nice skin. My mom used ivory soap & Jergan’s lotion, & had great skin, too.
    I have used natural products for years; oatmeal ‘scrub’ (that I made in my coffee mill with calendula, lavender & rose petals) then switched to castor & olive oil cleansing as Azul described, & use coconut oil as a moisturizer. I mix a bit of sugar with the castor/olive mix at times, & use green clay masks occasionally. At times I’ll use some avacado or other soft fruit on my skin – it’s fun to play!

  6. Mandy March 17, 2010 at 5:13 pm #

    Lindsay,

    I’ve used both Bare Minerals and Everyday Minerals, and I definitely prefer Everyday Minerals. Their sample sizes are all I get, and at $2.50 a container, it’s such a deal. They also have coupon codes on their site to get more free samples. I don’t think I’ve ever payed over $5 for shipping.

    I use Burt’s Bees Orange Oil Facewash to clean, jojoba oil to moisturize, Everyday Minerals for makeup, Gabriel Color mascara, and Dr. Bronner’s Magic Soap to clean my brushes (which I do about once a week). I also use Dr. Bronner’s as my shampoo, conditioner, body wash, and hand soap. One of the best investments ever.

  7. Teddi February 26, 2010 at 5:36 pm #

    I found a small business who sells mineral make up online. http://www.theallnaturalface.com She also sells on Etsy, but has better deals on this site. She always includes free samples in her orders, has very reasonable shipping (even to Canada) and almost everything is vegan.

  8. Kim February 4, 2010 at 7:42 am #

    Have you tried Everyday Minerals yet? I’m thinking about changing up my makeup routine and wanted to know if you’d gotten around to trying it.

    • Lindsay February 7, 2010 at 10:45 am #

      I have not. Since Bare Minerals came out with the Bismuth free version, I haven’t made the switch. I like the Bare Minerals and it is easy to come by locally.

  9. brooke December 30, 2009 at 5:59 pm #

    lindsey, i was wondering how you clean your bareminerals brushes? i was at a bareminerals store the other day and they told me that i need their brush cleaning solution??? anyway, i really did not want to spend $14 on brush cleaning solution!!! thanks for your help. brooke

    • Lindsay January 4, 2010 at 1:30 pm #

      Honestly, I have not cleaned my brushes! ;) I have seen various youtube videos that would guide you through the process though.

      • Teddi February 26, 2010 at 5:31 pm #

        You can just clean your brushes gently with shampoo and rinse until the water runs clear. Gently press out excess water. Leave them out on a towel to air dry.

  10. Tami December 17, 2009 at 3:47 pm #

    Since everyone else is leaving a mineral make-up website, thought I’d share one that hasn’t been mentioned yet. :) I’m currently in the market for a new brand of mineral make-up now that my BareMinerals is running out and came across this one on a green smoothie blog:

    http://www.affordablemineralmakeup.com/

    I plan to try it and see how it works for me. :) Not endorsing it or anything, just mentioning it.

  11. Stacey October 24, 2009 at 12:50 pm #

    I know this post it older, but I just came across it today. I have a friend that makes and sells mineral makeup. Her company is called Pure Anada. Love it! She just came out with a natural mascara as well, which is very exciting. Her shop also sells a lot of other natural, wonderful products.

    Did you know that coconut oil also works really well as a makeup remover? Especially for mascara. Just use a small amount, then wipe with a wet cloth. I also use coconut oil as a moisturizer. Love it!

    http://thepureboutique.com

  12. Christie July 29, 2009 at 7:12 pm #

    Do you have any suggestions on natural remedies for acne? I am 27 and have suffered from acne since I was 10 years old. I also use mineral makeup. After God convicted myself and my husband to stop using birth control completely, I stopped taking my birth control pills and my complexion has been a mess ever since. Thanks in advance!

    • Lindsay July 30, 2009 at 7:17 am #

      I have heard that an Apple Cider Vinegar wash is supposed to help clear out your pours and be very beneficial for solving acne problems.

      • Christie July 30, 2009 at 9:22 am #

        I have never heard of that remedy before, thanks so much!

      • Kate July 31, 2009 at 5:33 am #

        Would you apply the ACV w/a cotton ball, like you would w/an astrigent? My face lately, has been breaking out like it did as a teen!

        • Lindsay August 1, 2009 at 5:25 am #

          Yes, or dilute it with water and place it in a bowl to wash your face.

    • Kathleen December 8, 2009 at 6:14 pm #

      Try going gluten-free for a couple of weeks. It makes a difference for me.

      • Dia March 28, 2010 at 9:36 pm #

        My daughter (39) & I went gluten free last summer – it’s been helping her acne, too!!
        I’ve been using oil (castor & olive) as a facial wash every few days, as Azul mentioned, & love it!! I mixed some up for my daughter, but don’t know if she’s tried it. I used to use the oatmeal – but now those would have to be Gluten Free oats :)

  13. Heather July 14, 2009 at 7:04 am #

    Wow! My Arbonne ran out 2 days after my last comment. I ordered the free trial of Everyday Minerals and am blown away! The coverage is better, the price is 1/3, I needed to use less so it will last longer, and the color choices were far superior. It took such a tiny amount, that i expect this little trial size to last months. So the regular size order will be a once a year purchase for $12 dollars. Wow!

  14. Heather July 8, 2009 at 2:01 pm #

    I have used Arbonne liquid mineral foundation for years and love it to death. They are an all natural company. The price is $32 and lasts me 10 months. I figure $3.20 a month isn’t bad. I prefer a liquid over a powder, for coverage reasons. Arbonne covers better than any powdered mineral makeup i’ve ever tried.

  15. Raine Saunders June 19, 2009 at 9:49 am #

    Lindsay, I love your web site! I used to wear a lot of makeup, and I still love makeup a great deal, but I’ve toned way down over the last few years and really only wear mascara now on a daily basis, and sometimes nothing at all.I used to use MAC (very toxic, although they have gorgeous colors), and I switched to Bare Minerals eye shadow about three years ago. I love their colors too, but heard Everyday Minerals was a great company as well. I have very sensitive skin but have had no problems with the Bare Minerals shadow I’ve used. I’ll have to try their eye shadow next time I need to purchase something. I use Dr. Hauschka mascara and I love it. It’s very gentle and I’ve never had any problems with it. For lip or skin balm I use Badger’s body balm products or I use coconut oil. Some of the lipsticks I’ve been using over the years include Lavera and hemp organics (www.colororganics.net). To remove makeup, I use whatever basic organic almond oil is on sale. It feels so good on my skin, and the bottle lasts a very long time. For the last number of years, I have never really spent any time washing my face nor using moisturizers or facial washes of any type. When I was younger and did wash my face with regular soap in the shower, my face would break out into a red rash, so I stopped. I don’t know if that is some kind of pay off or not, but I’m turning 40 in August and people say I look like I’m in my 20′s.

  16. Sarah April 10, 2009 at 9:39 am #

    Has anyone heard of Daisy Blue Naturals? They have all-natural soaps, lotions, etc., and they just came out with mineral make-up. I just started using it, and I love it! No parabens. Completely natural. I recommend looking into it: http://www.daisybluenaturals.com.

  17. Rachael February 18, 2009 at 1:37 pm #

    I have been using Everyday Minerals for several months now and love it! It is very frugal as well, especially compared to Bare Minerals. You can order as many free samples as you need to figure out the correct foundation color for you! I like the custom kits, I usually get the Super custom kit as I figured out you save about 50% by purchasing in volume. I get 5-6 foundations and a variety of eyeshadow, brushes, blush, etc. This has lasted me 6 months and I still have lots of product left. You could even just get all foundation if that is all you wear. I recommend the foundation kabuki brush as well, very soft and even coverage. Also if you go to “Community” section and “Specials” you can get free products by entering the code they give you.

  18. Gillian January 30, 2009 at 11:55 am #

    Lindsay,
    I was just reading your thread on diaper rash and how zinc oxide isn’t good. But I just checked and mineral makeups have zinc oxide!?……What are you thoughts? Is it not as harmful in those amounts on our face like it would be on a baby?

    • Lindsay January 31, 2009 at 3:39 pm #

      I did a bit of further research today on the topic of zinc oxide and realized that zinc oxide is not the problem ingredient in desitin or mineral makeup. Zinc appears to be perfectly safe. As to desitin, it is rather the other ingredients which are not safe for the skin, including methylparaben, petrolatum and talc. Sorry for the confusion!

      • Gillian January 31, 2009 at 6:57 pm #

        That’s OK. Thanks so much for checking into it! I’m glad to hear it’s safe:)

  19. Kristina December 18, 2008 at 2:06 am #

    To tell the truth I have got an oily and sensitive skin.There arise pimples on it every time I grow nervous. My skin is irritated when I wash it with water or eat certain kinds of products. I refreshed my facial makeups but the result was the same. However I have recently discovered that mineral makeups are good for my skin. I have purchased Bareminerals. It matches to my skin tone.I hope I’ll end up having the kind of skin I have been longing for.

  20. Elissa November 25, 2008 at 11:23 pm #

    Has anyone tried Physician’s Formula mineral makeup? I don’t know how natural it is, but I’ve been using some of their products for a while. I’m not sure how much I like them yet, but they’re okay.

    • missy November 26, 2008 at 7:43 am #

      Elissa,
      Physician’s Formula I don’t believe is all natural. Pretty much anything you can buy at the drug store (even if it says mineral) has the chemical components many try to avoid. Unfortunately there is no FDA regulation as far as using words like “mineral” and “all natural”. If you list the ingredients I can let you know if it truly is just mineral make-up.

  21. Elisha September 12, 2008 at 12:07 pm #

    I just have to put a word in for Jane Iredale’s mineral makeup. It’s just minerals. It’s a bit pricey to start up because buying the applicator brush is important for getting it on your face, but once you have some basics, it lasts so long and never goes bad that it’s not too expensive to keep up. I do tend to stick to just a few colors and keep things more basic. If you want a-lot of colors, you can spend tons of money of course. I’ve never had plastic surgery, but many plastic surgeons will sell this to their clients as the only “safe” makeup to wear as they heal. It’s not as commercially popular as bare minerals (probably due to it’s higher price), but I am starting to see it around more. Real Simple magazine had an add for it last month, which is the first public add I’ve ever seen. It’s simple, healthy, safe, and blends with my skin very nicely. I get a-lot of compliments. I highly recommend it and will never switch.

  22. Missy August 4, 2008 at 1:26 pm #

    I love mineral make up too. I buy Coastal Scents.

    http://www.coastalscents.com

    I also make my own, you can buy the raw make up ingredients from Coastal Scents or TKB Trading. Just another hobby of mine, I mostly make eye shadows because they are the funnest. My daughters (age 4 and 3) helped me make the prettiest green we called “Mermaid” and I wear it all the time.

  23. Kathy Daniel July 16, 2008 at 6:27 pm #

    There is a company that has great prices and, in my opinion, a better product than Bare Minerals. It is called Mineral Basics. Everything they make has a minimum of good, nontoxic ingredients. They have a great selection, and you receive your product quickly. I stumbled on them and decided to give them a try after I ran out of my Bare Minerals. I’ve been using their products for about 3-4 years and have enjoyed the quality and the prices. I think their website is http://www.mineralbasics.com.

  24. Eryn July 11, 2008 at 12:53 am #

    I just recieved the sample kit from every day minerals, thanks to your tip, and I love it just as much as the Bare Minerals that I’ve been using for 2 years. In fact, i like it more, and I LOVE the price! The sample kit was very generous. I will definitely order the full size kit from them…thanks again!

  25. Casey July 4, 2008 at 11:35 pm #

    What wonderful information! Thank you for sharing your findings!

  26. Azul June 30, 2008 at 8:59 pm #

    I use Avon’s mineral makeup, which is okay, but I’m planning to place an order with Everyday Minerals when I use up my current supply. I’ve heard good things about them too.

    As far as skin care, I started doing the Oil Cleansing Method about two months ago, and I love it. You cleanse your skin with oil (I use a mix of Castor and Olive Oils), and use steam to remove the oil/makeup/etc. from your face. I Oil cleanse ever 2-3 days, and use plain baking soda as a face wash in between.

    It sounds counter intuitive, but my skin is now more balanced than it’s ever been, and I don’t get the afternoon greasies on my T-zone anymore.

  27. Dawn June 29, 2008 at 9:12 pm #

    This last winter I tried Signature Minerals on the recommendation of a friend. Their products do not contain Bismuth. My skin is oily and acne prone and most makeup rubbed off halfway through the day. I was amazed at how well it lasted! They too offer a trial kit of six minerals (any foundation, concealer, veil, blush or eyecolor) for shipping of around $5. And, you can sample every one of their colors once, as long as you order six at a time and pay the shipping. I sprang for a couple of their brushes too, and I’m glad I did as they are far superior to what I had, and key in applying quickly. And, the good news is my face is clearer. http://www.signatureminerals.com

  28. Lisa June 29, 2008 at 4:42 pm #

    I use Everyday Minerals and have for well over a year. I LOVE IT! The company is owned by a mom who started this company in her own and from what I have heard she is a wonderful person, they have WONDERFUL customer service, and I love everything I have used. It’s far more natural and my mom who used BareMinerals loves Everyday Minerals a lot more. Get the sample kit it’s so worth it. And a little tip you can get the sample kit every time you order so you get free makeup. I keep that size in my purse.

  29. Kate June 28, 2008 at 6:46 pm #

    I use Bare Essentials. I started using when I saw it on QVC. I gave it a whirl!

    I never had any problems w/lipstick. I wear it daily, it disappears after a while, but reapplication is key.

  30. Erin June 28, 2008 at 11:29 am #

    I have used Mary Kay for years but have been looking for somthing more healthy,thanks so much.
    Do you have any thoughts on lipstick?

    • Lindsay June 28, 2008 at 2:24 pm #

      Yes, I would think lipstick is one of the most important things to choice more natural options in, as it can be so easily eaten/swallowed. I choice the Burt’s Bees lip shimmers as an excellent lipstick replacement – they serve as lip balm but also come in very nice colors as well!

  31. Heather June 28, 2008 at 7:48 am #

    Lindsay (or anyone else with fair skin), I also use the light/fairly light BareMinerals for my foundation, and I am wondering what colors you chose/are choosing for EveryDay Minerals??? I’d like to give them a try but have no idea what color to pick…

    • Lindsay June 28, 2008 at 2:57 pm #

      That is a hard question. I have not tried any yet, but looking over them, I probably would get the following three colors in a sample kit: Cool-Multi-Tasking,
      Golden-Fawn, Beige-Fairly Light…one of these should work! ;)

  32. Stephanie June 27, 2008 at 3:59 am #

    I have been using bare minerals for a few years and I love it. I have very sensitive skin, and I have never had a problem with this makeup! It is expensive, but lasts a long time and is well worth it to me.

    I just have to find a good mosturizer now. Coconut oil did not work for me. Any suggestions?

    • Alison @ Pennythoughts June 27, 2008 at 7:31 am #

      I’ve been using Ann Webb’s skincare line, and I’ve been very happy with it. It’s reasonably priced (the products last for 5 months at a time) and quite pure, based on my ingredient searches at Skin Deep. You can find her online here: http://www.skinbyannwebb.com. She is based out of Austin, TX and has her products in a number of retail outlets in several states. You can also order online (and everything is completely refundable). The pomegranate moisturizer is the best I’ve experienced so far. I *hate* moisturizers with SPF in them, but this one is different. It soaks in so quickly, you would never know. Just my $0.02.

    • Lindsay June 28, 2008 at 2:26 pm #

      Stephanie, did you have a quality coconut oil? I use organic extra virgin coconut oil and it works wonders on my very dry skin. Just a thought.

  33. Lindsay June 26, 2008 at 10:23 pm #

    Wow! Thanks for sharing everyone on all the different mineral makeups out there. Very interesting to hear!

  34. Kelly June 26, 2008 at 8:35 pm #

    Hi – I would recommend avoiding those with Bismuth. I’ve had good luck with Herbs of Grace. And their prices are very very reasonable – much, much cheaper than the “name” brands. (Foundation – $18.50, blush – 6.75; these last forever!).

    They have samples available for purchase, where you get 2 foundations plus 4 colors (eyes or blushes) for $6. The sample jars alone have lasted me several months.

    http://www.herbsofgrace.com/

  35. Sarah June 26, 2008 at 8:24 pm #

    I too use, and like Bare Minerals. . . I’ve also heard good things about one called “Sheer Cover” but I haven’t investigated them and since I just bought another jar of Bare Minerals, I probably won’t be for a while! :)

    In terms of facial care, I have a really simple routine, but it is not 100% natural. I still nightly use Ponds Cold Cream to remove my makeup (and eye makeup) which works great. I have sensitive skin but it doesn’t clog my pores and moisturizes nicely. I smear it all over my face (and over my waterproof mascara) and then wash off with a hot, wet washcloth, leaving a little bit on to moisturize overnight. I know it is made of mineral oil, but I honestly haven’t found a one-step routine that I like as well. Plus, my grandma has used Ponds for decades (literally at least 40 to 50 years) and she has gorgeous soft skin. When I find a better, natural way to do it I will! Though, I have been thinking about changing oils (I sound like a car) from mineral based to nut based to get a similar effect. I had considered using the Burt’s Baby Bee apricot oil, but might consider coconut or olive oil as well. I know my Japanese (exchange student) sister swears by oil cleansing for soft skin . . .

    I’m looking forward to reading other replies!

    Best,
    Sarah

  36. Lanette June 26, 2008 at 4:20 pm #

    I do not wear make-up regularly. Once or twice a year I will for a formal occasion, and then I just use Burt’s Bees foundation and lipstick, nothing else. Those are very heavy, though, especially for someone who typically goes without. My mother-in-law uses bare minerals, so I had been curious about it. Thanks for the information. Do the samples from everyday minerals come with instructions?

    My regular routine is to wash with a bar of burt’s bees complexion soap (preferably garden tomato, but we can’t always find it) and moisturize with coconut oil. I first used a homemade stretch mark salve on my face. It was made from coconut oil, aloe vera gel, olive oil, vitamin E and vitamin A. I’m not pregnant anymore, and plain coconut oil is much simpler.

  37. Jeannie June 26, 2008 at 4:05 pm #

    First of all I am new to your site and have been lurking all day long, great and informative blog you got going here. Second I use MK too and have for years, in fact its the only thing that doesnt irritate my skin, I have recently purchased their mineral makeup and will be diving into more about it as far as its ” safety”. My uncle has a saying that he goes by, if its something you can’t eat then don’t put it on your skin. lol I am sure this is a good statement to live by, I guess I am still too corrupted by the stuff they have been putting into our cosmetics for years to really do a complete about face. I enjoy learning so at least thats a good start.

  38. Katie June 26, 2008 at 3:46 pm #

    I’ve been keeping up with your site for a while, and I’ve really enjoyed it. You cover a lot of important topics, so thanks a lot!

    I was introduced to a mineral makeup called “Naked Minerals” back in November through my mother-in-law, who is very health conscious. I tried it for myself and was sooo impressed. I’ve heard the common complaint of most mineral makeups is the loose powder and how messy it can be. That’s one of the biggest appeals to Naked Minerals. It’s pressed, but it doesn’t use any unnatural binders to keep it pressed. It’s entire line contains only pure minerals! I just got home from the mission field and was super excited to finally get my own supply. I’ve been using it for a week and love how it looks and feels.

    It is expensive, but I believe it’s totally worth it. If you go to http://www.nakedmineralscosmetics.com it looks like you can get a “free trial” of the foundation and a kabuki brush (which is the coolest and softest brush I’ve ever used), but you have to pay the 9.95 shipping.

  39. candace June 26, 2008 at 1:00 pm #

    Interesting stuff Lindsay!
    I am going to check out Everyday Minerals too. I have always wanted to try Bare Minerals, but thought it was too pricey. Thank you for sharing this info!

  40. Megan June 26, 2008 at 12:32 pm #

    I also have enjoyed using Bare Minerals. I like that the power foundation allows you to get a very light application. I love their shimmery eye shadows!

    I just use ground up oatmeal (ground in a hand-held coffee grinder) for my face soap. It is a very gentle cleanser with mild exfoliation perfect for sensitive skins. I love the clean feeling without the tightness soap causes.

    As a moisturizer I enjoy using a rosewater and glycerine misting spray at the moment.

    Thanks for the info Lindsay!

  41. Christy June 26, 2008 at 12:18 pm #

    I’ve been using and really like Sheer Miracle. They are listed on the Safe Cosmetics website (www.safecosmetics.org). I don’t know how it compares to the others, but it is inexpensive and looks and feels great.

    http://www.sheermiracle.com/

  42. Mrs. Taft June 26, 2008 at 12:14 pm #

    Thanks for all the information! I’d love to try Everyday Minerals, so thanks for the tip.

  43. Amy Brigham June 26, 2008 at 9:59 am #

    I used to be a salesgirl for Bare Minerals in my former life, and did use the product briefly back then, but am no longer a fan. Many of my clients had skin issues resulting from their products (myself included) and the color choices are also very poor, especially when compared to other brands of mineral makeup. When I branched out into freelance makeup artistry, I at one time used Aromaleigh foundations in my pro-kit and was impressed with these products. The skin complaints were nearly non-existent, the color choices spectacular, several formulations existed for different skin types, and you receive more product for less money. It’s been several years since I’ve used these products though, and I’ve heard the formulation has changed, so I don’t know if they are still as good now or else I would wholeheartedly recommend this brand, especially as they sell generous samples for people to try first.

  44. Rebekah June 26, 2008 at 9:08 am #

    I LOVE everyday minerals. I found them several months ago and got there free kit which lasted me several months and then I purchased the regular size kit. I would definately recommend getting some of there brushes to apply the makeup with. I am so pleased with this product it doesn’t smell funny and you don’t even know you have makeup on. Also I bought some mascara from honeybee gardens and I really like it as well.

  45. April June 26, 2008 at 8:33 am #

    I don’t know what all is in it, but I have been using Mary Kay’s mineral foundation for the past several months, and I LOVE IT. It took some getting used to, because I was an all or nothing gal before–either full on cakey makeup, or I wouldn’t bother with it. But this is so quick and light and easy to blend, I can just slap some on, dab on some mascara and lip gloss, and I’m good to go! My husband loves it too–he likes to see me a little more put together, but hates that thick cakey liquid foundation.

  46. Pam June 26, 2008 at 8:27 am #

    I have been wanting to try these products and in the fall just may do that! In the summer I don’t wear anything on my skin – just some eyeshadow, mascara and maybe a bit of blush or powder. I did simplify my makeup routine earlier in the year. Due to a flood in our bathroom I lost all my makeup. It was actually a blessing. I went to MAC and bought one set of everything. It was expensive, but I can put it all into one basket and I use it everyday. I love the simplicity of not having dozens of lipsticks, eyeshadows, etc. I plan to continue this and just replace each item as I use it up.

  47. Michele June 26, 2008 at 8:22 am #

    Thank you so much for this post, Lindsay! I am absolutely clueless in the area of makeup (natural or not!). :) I have a pretty good natural cleansing routine down, but I haven’t even known where to start with the make up. I’ll definitely be looking into the EveryDay Minerals. (Now, hopefully, I can just pick the right color, and put it on my face in a suitable manner!) :)

    Blessings,
    Michele

    • Lindsay June 26, 2008 at 8:28 am #

      I love it Michele! That’s the same problem I have and which turns makes it difficult to consider changing products, which color/tone do you choose? Would love to hear your natural cleansing routine. Please share!

    • Michele June 26, 2008 at 6:59 pm #

      I’ve been using the L’Oreal Cashmere Perfect in Classic Ivory. I’m finally nearing the end of the tube, so I’m starting to think of switching to something more natural. :)
      I’ll have to remember the coconut oil as a moisturizer!
      I’ll go ahead and share my cleansing routine on my blog tomorrow.
      Michele :)

  48. Stacy June 26, 2008 at 8:22 am #

    Thanks so much for this information.

    I use Bare Minerals and have wanted to try something different – I’ll check out Everyday Minerals. A friend of mine uses mineral make up from Makeup-junky.com and likes it. I haven’t checked out their ingredients thoroughly.

    Sometimes I wish for a lotion type of foundation in the winter when my skin is very dry. There are a few out there – but they cost a crazy amount!

    I have also made a few things from the book Natural Beauty at Home and also Organic Body Care Recipes. This week I am going to make a cleanser from one of the books.

    I am glad to know that you use Coconut oil as your moisturizer. Moisturizer is one product that is hard to find without undesirable ingredients!

    Thanks again.
    Stacy

    • Alison @ Pennythoughts June 27, 2008 at 5:42 am #

      Stacy, I wanted to let you know that at least one mineral makeup company does make a liquid type foundation. I checked while I was in Whole Foods yesterday to be sure, and I found that Mineral Fusion definitely makes a sheer-coverage style liquid foundation. This company is a bit pricy, but I’m sure that if one company makes it, others probably do too. I haven’t look into it any further, but I thought this info might be helpful for you.

      Alison

  49. Alison @ Pennythoughts June 26, 2008 at 7:46 am #

    I love mineral makeup too! It does feel so much better and looks very natural. I also use Bare Minerals right now, but I want to switch as soon as I run out. I don’t know if you noticed this, but the Mineral Veil contains parabens. I discovered this recently, although I did not know about the bismuth oxychloride. That’s very interesting, because my skin occasionally feels irritated after application. It’s highly sensitive, though, so I assumed it was the friction from the brush. Hmmm…something else to consider. I’m glad you mentioned Everyday Minerals, because, so far, I’ve only been hearing about Mineral Fusion. It’s supposed to be perfectly “clean,” but it’s even more expensive than Bare Minerals. I’ll definitely be looking into Everyday Minerals as my supplies run low. (By the way, it took me 10 months to go through the starter kit, so that $60 goes a loooooong way.)

  50. Stephanie @ Keeper of the Home June 26, 2008 at 7:37 am #

    This is something I have been wanting more information about for a long time. It is one of the few areas of my beauty routine that has not gone “natural”, as I didn’t really know where to begin and was afraid it would be horrendously expensive. Also, like yourself, I’m pretty simplistic with my routine, and just don’t like to wear a whole lot anyways.

    I’m going to check out the Everyday Minerals- thanks so much for the link!

  51. Lynn June 26, 2008 at 7:31 am #

    I love BareMinerals. I have been using if for a couple of years. I have very sensitive skin and it works great. I also have very, very oily and acne prone skin, even though I am in my thirties. Bareminerals works great for my skin. It does not cake on and does not clog my pores. It is just light and natural feeling. I know it is expensive but it does last a long time. I highly recommend it. Thanks for the post!