Afterglow Cosmetics.co.uk

So what is classed as mineral makeup?
It’s not a dumb question! In fact, there are no regulations governing what can and cannot go in a pot with the word ‘mineral’ written on it. Like organic and natural beauty products, mineral products may not actually contain any more mineral content than others. At risk of sounding pedantic, it pays to read the label.

What’s in mineral make-up? 
It’s more a question of what isn’t! Mineral make-up is composed of very finely ground mineral powders from the earth (mica, zinc oxide and titanium dioxide are the big guns). Many of these minerals are also found in ordinary make-up. The ‘purest’ forms of mineral make-up contain no paraben preservatives, fillers, dyes, chemicals, colours, binders, other chemicals and irritants. Watch out for a chemical called bismuth (bismuth oxychloride) too. This is a pearlising agent which can irritate skin and give an unnatural Tango orange glow. 

What difference does mineral make-up have for your skin?
Devoid of the above-mentioned nasties, mineral make-up is purer, lighter in texture and kinder to skin. Minerals have anti-inflammatory properties, which have a calming effect on acne, rosacea, allergies and sensitive skin. Mineral make-up is comedogenic, meaning it doesn’t clog your pores as much as heavier chemical products. Some mineral cosmetics are also suitable for vegans and gluten sensitive types.

Afterglow Cosmetics founder Kristin Adams (pictured above) says: “The typical adult uses nine cosmetics & personal-care products a day with an average daily load of around 126 chemicals. Most of these chemicals are absorbed into your body through your skin. Others, found in lipstick and lip balm you actually eat as they come off your lips when eating, drinking or wetting your lips. Mineral cosmetics are natural and don’t contain any harmful ingredients.”

What are the downsides?
The powder-heavy formulae can have drying effects and even accentuate wrinkles and lines. Prices vary a great deal, but as a rule you use less product than you would for standard cosmetics, so mineral makeup can give you value for money even if you have to shell out a bit more to start with.

More than just a beauty craze mineral make up claims to offer health benefits as well. Made from natural, finely ground minerals, it’s make-up minus any of the chemicals, dyes and preservatives.

Afterglow wink lipstick
Make and colour: Afterglow mineral cosmetics – Wink
Packaging: Solid and compact.
Description: Light-weight, ultra-moist and made with certified organic ingredients like organic jojoba oil, organic aloe vera, organic vitamin E and organic grape seed extract.
Texture: Smooth and creamy
Effect: Only a small amount needs to be applied, gives an even gloss and smooth colour, has strong lasting power, perfect for a night on the town.
Price: £18 for 4g
Additional: Available in 15 different shades all of which are organic and include an extra shimmer.
Rating: 3/5
Buy now: www.afterglowcosmetics.co.uk

Afterglow organic mineral foundation
Make and colour: Afterglow – Porcelain
Packaging: Solid and light-weight
Description: Luminous skin has never been so easy to achieve. Effortlessly brush on the 100% natural Organic Mineral Foundation for a soft, naturally glowing finish.
Texture: Light and smooth
Effect: The shades avaliable are either lighter with darker undertones or dark with light undertones which gives an all over even finish without looking overdone, excellent lasting power and easy to apply.
Price: £28 for 10g
Additional: Available in 20 different shades there will be a tone to suit your skin colour.
Rating: 4/5
Buy now: www.afterglowcosmetics.co.uk

We can’t get enough of Afterglow’s lovely range of organic lipsticks! Packed full of certified organic ingredients to naturally hydrate and protect your pout. Our top-tips are vibrant Courage and girlie pink Wink.