Mineral makeup: why it’s kinder to your skin, and how to apply it
Believe in Beautiful Blog
If you’ve spent money on skin treatments and a good skincare routine, it makes sense to choose makeup that works with your skin rather than against it. That’s where mineral makeup comes in.
Here’s what makes mineral makeup different, how to choose the right formula and our best tips for applying it beautifully.
How is mineral makeup different?
Mineral makeup is generally based on finely milled minerals and tends to feel lighter on the skin than many traditional formulas. It’s designed to give coverage you can build up gradually, so you can wear a sheer veil on the weekend and a little more for a big night out.
Ingredients vary between brands, so always check the label of any product you choose, especially if your skin is sensitive.
Why so many people love mineral makeup
- It feels light. Many people find mineral makeup comfortable to wear all day.
- It’s buildable. Start sheer and add only where you need it, which helps it look like skin rather than a mask.
- It suits lots of skin types. Many people with sensitive or breakout-prone skin find mineral formulas easy to wear. If you’re managing breakouts, read our guide to breakouts and acne too.
- It’s a natural fit with good skincare. A light layer lets your skin, and the results of your treatments, show through.
Choosing your Australian Skin Institute formula
Our mineral makeup range sits alongside our skincare in the online shop, in the step after moisturiser and SPF.
| Product | Price | Good for |
|---|---|---|
| Liquid Mineral Foundation with SPF15 | $69 | Easy, buildable everyday coverage |
| Cream Mineral Foundation with SPF15 | $55.95 | A creamy texture you can also dab on as a light concealer |
| Mineral BB Cream with SPF15 | $69 | A quick, sheer finish for low-makeup days |
A note on SPF. The SPF15 in these products is a nice bonus, but makeup alone isn’t enough sun protection. Most of us don’t apply foundation thickly or evenly enough. Always wear a dedicated broad-spectrum SPF 50+ underneath, every day.
How to apply mineral makeup like a pro
The right brush makes a big difference. Our Premium Angled Kabuki Brush ($23.95) has dense bristles for buffing and an angled edge for getting into tricky spots.
- Prep your skin. Cleanse, apply your serums and moisturiser, then your SPF 50+. Give everything a minute or two to settle.
- Start small. Use less product than you think you need. You can always add more.
- Buff in circles. Work from the centre of your face outwards using small, light circular movements. This blends the product into your skin for a seamless finish.
- Use the angle. The angled edge helps you work around the nose, along the hairline and under the eyes.
- Build where needed. Add a second thin layer only where you want more coverage, such as around the nose or on any redness.
- Blend the edges. Sweep lightly along the jaw and hairline so there are no visible lines.
A few extra applicator tips: start with clean hands, tap off any excess product before it reaches your face, and use a light touch. Pressing hard can move product around rather than blending it. If your makeup looks dry or patchy by lunchtime, it’s often a sign your skin needs more hydration underneath, so look at your skincare before you reach for more foundation.
Keep your brushes clean
Makeup brushes collect oil, product and dead skin cells, and dirty brushes can leave makeup looking streaky. Clean brushes are kinder to your skin, especially if you’re prone to breakouts.
- Wash them weekly. Use lukewarm water and a gentle soap or cleanser, and swirl the bristles in your palm until the water runs clear.
- Protect the handle. Keep water away from where the bristles meet the handle, as this can loosen the glue over time.
- Dry them properly. Gently squeeze out excess water, reshape the bristles and lay the brush flat to dry.
- Don’t share. Brushes are personal, just like a toothbrush.
Makeup after skin treatments
After a professional skin treatment, give your skin time before applying makeup. As a guide, avoid makeup for 12 hours after most treatments, and for 24 hours after skin needling. Your therapist will give you aftercare advice on the day. For more on preparing for your first appointment, read about the Skin Discovery Treatment.
Save on your skincare and makeup
Our Skincare 3+1 offer lets you buy any 4 Australian Skin Institute products online with the code ASI3+1, and the lowest-priced item is free. For example, the Cream Mineral Foundation ($55.95) with the Rejuvenating Foaming Cleanser ($69), Vitamin C Serum ($99) and Pure Hydration Concentrate Serum ($99) would usually be $322.95. With the code, the foundation is free and you pay $267. The offer is for our online shop only.
Love your skin products? A Skin Club membership includes a monthly professional skin treatment plus 20% off Australian Skin Institute retail with the Radiance Club ($135 a month) or 25% off with the Renewal Club ($220 a month). Both have a 6-month minimum term.
Ready to book? Pair your new makeup routine with a professional skin treatment. Book online or visit one of our six Brisbane clinics.
