Zinc Oxide Explained

Zinc Oxide is one of the main ingredients used in the manufacture of mineral makeup. It is similar to titanium dioxide in function.

It occurs in nature as zincite.

It has many uses other than cosmetics, including:

-Being added to food, like breakfast cereal, as a source of zinc.

-As a pigment in paint (it is less opaque than titanium dioxide , though.

-As a soothing ingredient in lotions, creams and balms (an example would be baby bottom cream)

-As a sunscreen in lotions

-In rubber manufacturing

Etc...

It comes in loose powder form. It feels and looks powdery and white.

It is used in mineral makeup mainly to give coverage (opacity), whiteness and sunscreen.

It can be included anywhere from 6% to 25% in mineral foundation, usually. The higher the concentration, the more opaque the finished product will be and the higher sunscreen it will have.

It is really an essential ingredient in manufacturing mineral makeup.

If you have ever seen a lifeguard with a white nose, it is probably this ingredient.

It comes in micronized or regular-sized particles. Micronized particles have been microscopically ground to a very fine size.

Some mineral makeup companies choose to use the micronized version, saying it gives a smoother, creamier, lighter feel to the makeup.

Others do not use it, as there is some controversy over the safety of breathing such small particles. It is said that they are so tiny, that they absorb into your bloodstream.

I don't ever use a micronized mineral makeup product. The regular version is just as good and you don't run the risk of breathing such small particles into your lungs.

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