Naturally . . . mineral make-up

Mineral make-up is marketed as a gentler and more natural alternative to other foundations, such as the cream, liquid and stick varieties. It can be, if you choose wisely, but like anything, mineral make-up comes with both perks and pitfalls.

The minerals in this type of make-up often include zinc oxide, titanium dioxide, mica and iron oxides. These are ground down and used to create a pressed or, more commonly, loose powder.

For many women who use it, and skin pros who recommend it, the ingredients left out of the finished product are the real appeal. The best brands stick to just a handful of ingredients and exclude artificial colours, preservatives, mineral oil, perfume and bismuth oxychloride. The absence of these ingredients reduces the risk of a reaction, if you have sensitive skin.

As a foundation, it looks natural (unless you have a heavy hand), feels lightweight, covers redness and provides some basic sun protection, thanks to the physical sunblocks zinc oxide and titanium dioxide.

It’s not all good news though. Some women find that it emphasises fine lines, wrinkles and pores, and accentuates flaky patches. If you have darker skin, it can be difficult to find a shade to match.

There’s been some concern over the safety of mineral powder if it’s inhaled. And loose powders can be messy.

Bottom line, when shopping for a mineral product, don’t just rely on the words ‘mineral’ or ‘pure’ or ‘natural’ emblazoned on the packaging.

To ensure you’re getting the good stuff, look at the list of ingredients: the shorter the better. The mineral content should be high (listed first) and all nonsense should be left out.

I personally prefer the less-hassle pressed versions, but I do use loose powders as well. It’s all about getting the application right. Shake a bit of the powder into the lid, swish your brush around, tap off any excess and apply it with a circular motion.

I've written about British mineral cosmetic brands Jane Iredale and Lily Lolo in the past, and then, of course, there's Bare Escentuals, probably the biggest name in mineral make-up. But I recently discovered an Irish mineral brand that's well worth a look: Anneco Beauty.

Businesswoman and beauty expert Ann Shields, who's from Galway and based in Laois, launched Anneco Beauty last year. The range includes everything from blushes and bronzers to corrector and concealer. It specialises in earthy tones and loose powders made from minimal ingredients, and several of the products are vegan.

I particularly like the blushes (€14.50), which come in handy pots that let you lock off the powder so it’s not a mess when you open it.

The colours are natural, buildable and last all day. The foundation (€25.50) is particularly powdery, more so than other loose mineral foundations I’ve tried. Coverage is light and colours are limited to two shades, but it gives a silky, matte, even finish that hides shine and doesn’t look or feel heavy. And it consists of just seven ingredients, none of which are the problematic sort I listed above.

You can order sample packs online for €5 to test it before committing. It isn’t bold or dramatic.

This is natural make-up for a natural look – and it’s Irish to boot.

kharris@irishtimes.com