For Color:
* Iron Oxides (CI 77491, CI 77492, CI 77499): These are some of the most common colorants in makeup, providing shades of red, yellow, brown, and black. They are used in foundations, eyeshadows, lipsticks, blush, and more. They're generally considered safe and stable.
* Titanium Dioxide (CI 77891): A white pigment, titanium dioxide is also used as a sunscreen. It's used to lighten colors, provide opacity, and give a matte finish.
* Ultramarines (CI 77007): A blue pigment, providing vibrant blue shades. Commonly used in eyeshadows and occasionally in mascaras.
* Manganese Violet (CI 77742): A violet/purple pigment, used in eyeshadows, blushes, and lip products.
* Chromium Oxide Greens (CI 77288): A green pigment used in eyeshadows and concealers.
* Ferric Ferrocyanide (CI 77510): A dark blue pigment, often used in eyeshadows and eyeliners.
For Texture, Coverage, and Other Properties:
* Talc: A soft mineral used as a filler, absorbent, and to provide a smooth texture. There has been concern about asbestos contamination in talc, so it's essential that cosmetic-grade talc is asbestos-free.
* Mica: A group of sheet silicate minerals that provide shimmer and sheen. It's used in eyeshadows, highlighters, and other products where a luminous effect is desired. Ethical sourcing of mica is an important consideration, as some mines have issues with child labor.
* Kaolin Clay: A fine, white clay that absorbs oil and provides a matte finish. It's often used in face masks, powders, and foundations.
* Silica: A mineral compound that helps with oil absorption, blurring fine lines, and creating a smooth texture. Often used in primers, powders, and foundations.
* Zinc Oxide: A white mineral used as a sunscreen and to provide opacity. It also has some anti-inflammatory properties.
* Boron Nitride: A synthetic mineral (though derived from boron and nitrogen) that provides a silky texture, good adhesion, and light diffusion. Often used in high-end makeup.
Important Considerations:
* Purity and Safety: It's crucial that minerals used in cosmetics are purified and tested to ensure they are free from contaminants like heavy metals and asbestos.
* Ethical Sourcing: The ethical sourcing of minerals like mica is a growing concern, with efforts being made to ensure fair labor practices in mining.
* INCI Names: The list of ingredients on a product will use the International Nomenclature of Cosmetic Ingredients (INCI) names for minerals. This is why you'll see names like "CI 77491" rather than "iron oxide red."
* Synthetic vs. Natural: Some minerals can be naturally derived or synthetically produced. Synthetic versions can sometimes be purer and more consistent than naturally mined minerals.
This is not an exhaustive list, but it covers the most common minerals you'll find in makeup products. Always check the ingredient list of a product if you have specific concerns about certain minerals.