MAC's Mineralize line of makeup gives skin a pearly translucence

Mineral-based makeup has proved popular since its debut a few years ago, thanks largely to the radiance it gives the skin due to the mica content, especially fine-grained sericite.

The natural elements are as alluring as organic food is to health-conscious people, says MAC cosmetics-training manager Panisara Tantana.

Panisara says her firm's Mineralize line of makeup lightens the skin and is ideal for people with sensitive skin.

"You can put on as much foundation, powder, blush and whatever else, but with MAC Mineralize the skin looks flawless," she says.

The Mineralize products are handmade in Italy. The powders - a finish, eye shadow and blush - begin as a "dough" made from finely milled sericite and talc. There are 77 blended minerals in all, fermented into a yeast extract.

The "dough" is moulded into a small, round terracotta tile, giving the products their unique marble look. No two compacts are the same because the marbleisation is done by hand.

The mixture is baked for 24 to 48 hours and cooled for a full 24 hours as the water in the formula evaporates, creating the light and airy texture.

"The mica-based pearl powder creates a beautiful effect, especially at night time," Panisara says. "The collection can be used as wet or dry cover for different effects. When wet, the colour pigmentation is opaque, and when dry there's a lightening effect."