Mineral Makeup Ingredients Glossary
Mineral Makeup Ingredients Glossary
This glossary defines every ingredient commonly used in mineral makeup, including what it is, why it's used, its safety profile, and its benefits. Use this as a reference when reading ingredient labels or researching mineral cosmetics.
Core Mineral Ingredients
Zinc Oxide (ZnO)
What it is: A naturally occurring white mineral compound made from zinc.
Why it's used: Provides coverage, anti-inflammatory benefits, antibacterial properties, and broad-spectrum UV protection.
Safety profile: Non-comedogenic (rating: 0), hypoallergenic, FDA-approved for over-the-counter use. Safe for sensitive, acne-prone, and rosacea-prone skin.
Benefits: Soothes irritation, reduces redness, protects against UVA/UVB rays, supports skin barrier function.
Titanium Dioxide (TiO₂)
What it is: A naturally occurring white mineral pigment.
Why it's used: Provides opacity, coverage, and physical UV protection.
Safety profile: Non-comedogenic (rating: 0), non-irritating, FDA-approved as a sunscreen ingredient. Safe for all skin types.
Benefits: Broad-spectrum sun protection, creates a smooth, even finish, reflects light for a natural glow.
Iron Oxides (CI 77491, CI 77492, CI 77499)
What they are: Naturally occurring earth pigments in red, yellow, and black.
Why they're used: Provide color and coverage without synthetic dyes.
Safety profile: Non-comedogenic (rating: 0), non-toxic, hypoallergenic. Safe for sensitive skin.
Benefits: Natural, stable pigments that don't fade or oxidize. No risk of allergic reaction.
Mica (CI 77019)
What it is: A naturally occurring silicate mineral that forms in thin, reflective sheets.
Why it's used: Adds subtle luminosity and helps powder blend smoothly.
Safety profile: Non-comedogenic (rating: 0), non-irritating. Safe for all skin types when ethically sourced.
Benefits: Creates a natural, skin-like radiance without glitter or shimmer. Improves texture and blendability.
Ingredients to Avoid in Mineral Makeup
Bismuth Oxychloride
What it is: A synthetic compound created as a byproduct of metal refining.
Why it's used: Adds shimmer and improves adhesion in pressed powders.
Safety profile: Comedogenic (rating: 2-3), common irritant. Can cause itching, redness, and cystic acne.
Why to avoid: Sharp crystalline structure irritates pores and triggers breakouts, especially in sensitive or acne-prone skin.
Talc
What it is: A soft mineral composed of magnesium, silicon, and oxygen.
Why it's used: Inexpensive filler that creates a silky texture.
Safety profile: Potentially comedogenic, risk of asbestos contamination, respiratory irritant when inhaled.
Why to avoid: Can clog pores, settle into fine lines, and may contain trace asbestos. No skincare benefits.
Parabens (Methylparaben, Propylparaben, Butylparaben)
What they are: Synthetic preservatives used to prevent microbial growth.
Why they're used: Extend shelf life in water-based cosmetics.
Safety profile: Linked to hormone disruption and allergic reactions. Banned in some countries.
Why to avoid: Not necessary in mineral makeup (which contains no water). Potential endocrine disruptors.
Synthetic Fragrance (Parfum)
What it is: A blend of undisclosed chemicals used to add scent.
Why it's used: Masks unpleasant odors or adds a signature scent.
Safety profile: Common allergen and irritant. Can contain phthalates (hormone disruptors).
Why to avoid: Triggers sensitivity, redness, and breakouts. No functional benefit in mineral makeup.
Silicones (Dimethicone, Cyclopentasiloxane)
What they are: Synthetic polymers used to create a smooth, silky texture.
Why they're used: Improve spreadability and create a "blurring" effect in pressed powders and liquid foundations.
Safety profile: Can be comedogenic (rating varies), may trap oil and bacteria in pores.
Why to avoid: Creates an occlusive barrier that prevents skin from breathing. Not necessary in loose mineral formulas.
Optional Beneficial Ingredients
Allantoin
What it is: A compound derived from comfrey root or synthesized in labs.
Why it's used: Soothes irritation and promotes skin healing.
Safety profile: Non-comedogenic, non-irritating, safe for sensitive skin.
Benefits: Calms redness, supports skin barrier repair, gentle enough for post-procedure skin.
Tocopherol (Vitamin E)
What it is: A fat-soluble antioxidant vitamin.
Why it's used: Protects against free radical damage and oxidation.
Safety profile: Generally non-comedogenic, though some forms can be pore-clogging. Safe for most skin types.
Benefits: Antioxidant protection, helps preserve formula stability.
How to Read Ingredient Labels
Ingredients are listed in descending order by weight: The first ingredient is the most abundant, the last is the least.
Look for short lists: Pure mineral makeup should have 4-8 ingredients. Long lists suggest fillers and additives.
Avoid vague terms: "Fragrance," "parfum," or "proprietary blend" hide undisclosed chemicals.
Check for comedogenicity: Look up unfamiliar ingredients to see if they clog pores (rating of 0-2 is safe).
Prioritize transparency: Brands that disclose every ingredient and its purpose are more trustworthy.
MAD Minerals Ingredient Philosophy
Every MAD Minerals foundation formulation contains only:
Zinc oxide (coverage, sun protection, anti-inflammatory benefits)
Titanium dioxide (opacity, UV protection)
Iron oxides (natural color pigments)
Mica (luminosity, blendability)
No fillers. No preservatives. No fragrances. No synthetic additives.
Every ingredient serves a purpose—coverage, skin health, or performance. Nothing extra, nothing irritating.