Makeup enthusiasts come in all ages, shapes, sizes, and virtues.
This is why, in the last five years or so, much attention has been given to developing makeup lines catering more effectively to the diversity of makeup lovers.
Popular makeup brands have increased the shade ranges of their foundations and concealers. Likewise, new brands have popped up to support the ever-growing green movement. They offer all-natural or organic and cruelty-free cosmetics ideal for people who do not want petrochemicals, parabens, and synthetic ingredients in their makeup.
It is a lovely thing that there is makeup for everybody, even for those with strict and specific requirements. However, it is important to acknowledge that the diversity of makeup products also yields different results. When it comes to organic makeup, for example, many have realized that as healthy as the products are, they still present some concerns. (See also: 5 Foolproof Makeup Tips for Beginners)
Industry experts often discuss these issues in professional makeup courses because there are undeniable differences between the performance of natural or organic makeup and your typical drugstore and high-end cosmetics. So, if you are interested to learn the real deal with organic cosmetics, five truths are shared below:
1. Most organic makeup products do not make use of silicone
Silicone is what makes conventional makeup products glide on the skin more smoothly. Primers, concealers, and foundations, in particular, are easy to work with because of silicone.
Therefore, not having silicone in the formula of organic makeup means it is much better applied with the fingers for a smooth and even application. If you opt for a Beauty Blender or a brush (does not matter if it’s synthetic or real hair), blending natural makeup will definitely be a struggle. The product will look a tad streaky.
2. Organic makeup has a smaller range of colors
It is still hard to find an organic makeup line that offers a satisfying range of colors. With foundation, the most raved about organic makeup brands such as Dr. Hauschka, Bourjois, and Korres (which, by the way, is one of the few organic makeup brands that uses silicone) still do not have deep enough shades of foundation.
As for eye makeup products, you will mostly get a very neutral palette. And, even if you get a few intense hues, the color payoff does not usually have the ability to “wow.”
The texture often feels nice, however, especially the mineral ones. But overall, organic eye makeup options require building up even if you use a primer, and there are not enough bold colors with great opacity for glam looks.
3. The longevity organic makeup offers still cannot compare to conventional long-wear makeup
If makeup does not use industry standard preservatives and glycerin, it truly is hard to achieve longevity. Also, the natural oils in organic makeup tend to break down coverage faster, which is why it is important to use a really good setting powder and proper makeup application techniques. (See also: The Benefits of Mineral Makeup for Your Skin and Your Health)
And speaking of setting powder, organic makeup brands like Jurlique, Nvey Eco, and Lavera do have great performing ones. If you want to improve the staying power of your organic makeup even by just a little, invest in these options.
4. Organic makeup does not mean hypoallergenic
Although organic makeup is believed to be good for people with sensitive skin (because it is free of synthetic ingredients that the body is not familiar with), it may still cause allergic reactions for some.
Sometimes, organic makeup causes breakouts because the skin needs time to adjust. If your skin has been quite used to non-organic products and you suddenly make the switch to all-natural cosmetics, your skin’s ability to transition may take some time.
Therefore, give yourself about two weeks to adjust to organic makeup. If, after that period, your skin condition continues to worsen, give it a rest. Organic makeup may just not be a good fit for you.
5. Organic makeup tends to be pricey
“All-good” natural ingredients really do come at a much higher price. Most things of great quality do. Also, because organic makeup targets a very specific market, it is often deemed a specialty or niche product. Thus, if you want to invest in a line of organic makeup, get ready to dole out a tad more than if you would with drugstore brands.
Organic makeup still has a long way to go in achieving the impressive results that you can easily get with the most popular brands on the market.
But if you are part of this unique group of people who will not settle for anything other than what is organic, you can make it work. Just take into consideration the five facts shared here and modify your makeup routine and techniques.
About The Author:
Toni Malt is the Middle East’s leading international editorial makeup artist and the woman behind the highly anticipated Toni Malt Makeup Academy in the heart of Dubai, now training the next generation of key makeup artists. From minimalistic looks to freestyle artistic creations, Toni’s creative work has been published in top international fashion magazines around the world including VOGUE, ELLE, L’Officiel, Marie Claire, Harper’s BAZAAR, Grazia and Cosmopolitan.
