Overview

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  Many women wear makeup daily. Because it's applied so often, some women begin to wonder about the possible harmful effects of the makeup they choose. Mineral makeup is often touted as being good for those with sensitive skin and health concerns over traditional makeup varieties; however, the mica and oxides may pose dangers of their own.
  
  

Scarring

• Mica may cause scarring of the lungs when it is breathed in. This is much more of a danger to those who come into close contact with large quantities of mica (such as those who work in construction), however, and it is unknown whether mineral makeup can have this effect.
  
  

Lung Disease

• Mica is also reported to cause lung disease, again in those who work around large quantities of it. The danger comes from breathing in the powder. It is unknown whether it can have this effect in makeup.
  
  

Zinc Oxide

• Zinc oxide can cause reactions which are similar to a flu, such as sore throat, fever (and subsequent chills) and headaches. According to the International Labor Organization, it is a hazardous substance.
  
  

Iron Oxides

• According to the Environmental Working Group, potential dangers include bioaccumulation and being absorbed unusually well into the skin. It does, however, list the ingredient as relatively safe.