Some of the most common concealer ingredients are talc, macadamia oil, and ground mica. In addition, titanium dioxide and shea butter can be found in many concealers. Not all of these concealer ingredients are considered safe; for example, talc and titanium dioxide can irritate the lungs when breathed in. Macadamia oil, mica, and shea butter are usually safe, unless the wearer experiences an allergy or has easily irritated skin. Usually, dozens of other minerals, chemicals, and vitamins are mixed with these basic ingredients to create the final product.
Talc is a natural mineral found in many cosmetic products, including some concealers. When applied to the skin, it gives the wearer a pearlescent shimmer. It is also used to make crayons, paper, and some foods. The safety of using talc is somewhat controversial, so some makeup companies are now making talc-free products. People mining or milling this concealer ingredient may be at risk for lung cancer because of the amount of talc they breathe in during work hours.
Macadamia oil is among the most common concealer ingredients found in natural concealers. This oil is expressed from the nut of the same name. In addition to its use in cosmetic products, it is used as a cooking ingredient and in perfumes. When lightly refined, the oil is a pale yellow, but it can refined until completely clear. It has a slight odor even when heavily refined, which is usually covered up with an added fragrance or the smells of other natural ingredients.
Ground mica is commonly found in mineral makeup concealers. Mica reflects light, which can help reduce the appearance of wrinkles and other blemishes. By itself, mica is sheer and sparkly and does not provide colored coverage. When mixed with other mineral makeup ingredients, it helps the powder go on more smoothly and gives the wearer’s face a polished finish that sparkles in bright light. Along with zinc, mica can help protect the wearer’s skin from sun damage by physically blocking the rays.
Titanium dioxide is also among the most popular concealer ingredients. It is a very versatile chemical found in minerals that can thicken and color makeup. In addition, it can be used as protection from the sun because it acts as a barrier between the skin and harmful rays. It does not penetrate the skin well, and is therefore often usable by people with sensitive skin. The overall safety of titanium dioxide is debatable, especially when it is included in products that can be accidentally inhaled.
Like macadamia oil, shea butter is extracted from a nut. It is a pale yellow fat that is often used to condition hair and skin. Besides its use in beauty products, it is used to make candles, to waterproof items, and even in some foods.