Is it possible to be allergic to Mineral Makeup?  Some people complain of allergic type skin reactions after using mineral makeup.  I believe that in most cases the problem is caused by one of two things.

First, the Bismuth Oxychloride in some Mineral Foundations can be problematic for some.  The most common effect is itching, especially when the face gets warm and/or sweats.  You can read about it here – Bismuth in Mineral Makeup and check out the Bismuth Free Mineral Makeups.  Bismuth can cause itching and irritation.

If you are having a full blown allergic type reaction – redness, swelling, even hives – your makeup brush may be the culprit.  Most makeup brushes are made of animal hair and many people are allergic and/or sensitive to it.  If you think the brush may be your problem, apply a small  amount of the mineral makeup to the inside of your wrist with your finger.  If you have no problems – try putting some on your face (with your finger).  If you don’t react, then you know the problem is the makeup brush you are using.  You will need to use Synthetic brushes and avoid all animal hair brushes.  Look for brushes with Nylon and Taklon fibers.   Synthetic brushes are also ideal for Vegans  – those who avoid all animal products.  You can read more here - Natural vs. Synthetic Makeup Brushes

If you are unhappy with the coverage you get from mineral makeup, don’t give up.  There are several ways to conceal discolorations under your mineral foundation.

First you can try applying you regular foundation over your areas with a concealer brush.  Concealer brushes are made of synthetic fibers and give a heavier application of minerals.

If that doesn’t for the trick, try dampening the concealer brush slightly and spot applying the foundation very slightly damp.

If you need more coverage than that, try Bare Minerals Bisque (available in regular, summer bisque & honey bisque).  The bisque colors are more opaque and they cover very well.

Bisque is best for covering up spots – like old acne spots and scars or sun damaged areas.  If you need all over help, consider these color correctors from Affordable Mineral Makeup™:
Apricot Concealer -is a matte creamy apricot concealer and corrector.  It is a matte peachy apricot shade with good coverage and it helps to warm up olive and yellow skin tones and corrects purplish bluish bruising.

Bisque Concealer – covers blemishes, red areas, dark circles or any other problem area of your face and also aids in oil absorption. It will work for light , medium and some tan skin tones.

Light Green Concealer – is a light almost non existent green shade, it is just enough shade to correct redness, without looking green. It is ideal to cover redness – blotches, acne, rosacea, sunburn or any redness. You can also mix this with your foundation.

Yellow Concealer – covers darkened areas – especially blueish tones, ideal for concealing under eye darkness.

Related Pages:
Mineral Makeup Concealer Brushes
Mineral Makeup Application Tips
Bare Minerals Multitasking Products
Affordable Mineral Makeup™

One of the unintended consequences of becoming a mineral makeup user, is that you also gain an entire new knowledge of makeup brushes. The brushes are so important! If you are unhappy with your mineral makeup, it may just as easily be the brush as the makeup itself. I never intended to become a makeup brush “junkie”, it just happened. I have recently discovered the best makeup brush ever made.

I don’t know how I missed this one for so long, but a few months ago I picked up Bare Escentuals’ Full Flawless Face Brush on eBay. I was blown away by it! It is a HUGE brush, very full and fluffy. It has a long handle and gives the most incredible light even coverage. I use it for everything except foundation and blush. It is ideal for mineral veil and any all over face color. I also use it for a non-mineral bronzer. It has not shed one bit and it is the brush that I always wanted!

I think I missed it because the name is so similar to Bare Escentual’s flawless face brush – the standard issue brush that comes with all of the started kits. There is no comparison. This wonderful brush is so much bigger and softer. It would be great for any powder – or anything that you just want a light even layer. I have never considered “hoarding” brushes before, but I am seriously considering adding a few of these to my “stash” – just in case.

I realized after I discovered it that this brush has been in some kits and there are quite a few listed on eBay with different colored handles. If you aren’t happy with the coverage & finish from your mineral veil and all over face colors, I would heartily recommend giving one of these beauties a try.

Related Pages:
Mineral Makeup Brushes

Shop for Bare Escentuals Full Flawless Face Brush on eBay

Bare Escentuals Full Flawless Face Brush $28.00 Store: QVC.com Bare Escentuals Full Flawless Face Brush $28.00 Store: Sephora.com