Over the last several years there has been a huge shift to the use of mineral make up.  Having made the switch about seven years ago, I can’t imagine going back to a liquid foundation.

A quick review of the benefits of a mineral based cosmetic:

• It feels great. Light and airy allowing your skin to breathe.
• It blends in much nicer than a liquid eliminating that makeup line around the face.
• It doesn’t smudge or leave a trail behind on your clothes (or anyone else’s).
• Because it’s mineral based, ingredients like alcohol, dyes, perfumes, talc, preservatives are eliminated.
• It can actually help your skin look better because it is not clogging up your pores.

While I have tried many good brands in the past, I recently connected with a new company, Modern Minerals.  Founder Diane Read was kind enough to send me a few samples so it was nice to learn and experience her product first hand.  There were up front reasons why I was willing to try out Modern Minerals.  All products are produced without any chemical preservatives and fillers and with real ingredients that are sourced from the earth.  Below is a list of ingredients they avoid:

• Artificial Colors: Also known as aluminum lakes or dyes and can be recognized by letters FD&C.

• Artificial Fragrances: Some of the chemicals used to create synthetic fragrances are derived from petrol products. Phthalates have been found in some synthetic fragrances. Studies have linked phthalates to possible developmental & reproductive issues as well as asthma, liver and kidney issues. Phthalates, DBP, BBP, DEHP are now banned in Europe.

• Bismuth Oxychloride & Cornstarch: Can irritate skin, clog pores and show fine lines.

• Micronized Minerals & Nanoparticles: These smaller particles present a greater likelihood of inhalation for those concerned about respiratory issues.

• Synthetic Parabens: (Methyl, Propyl, Ethyl, Butyl): Often used as to extend the shelf life in cosmetics. Studies have linked parabens to health concerns.

• Petroleum Products & By-products: We prefer to omit them entirely and use natural ingredients that truly hydrate.

Now that’s all fine but how does it perform?  In order to give any loose mineral based makeup a real chance, you need to use a good brush. I found MM applied very nicely and with a soft glow that gives my skin an even healthier look.  With a strong range of base shades and an earthy and elegant eyeshadow palate to choose from with yummy names like Godiva, Tiramisu, Haiku and Storm, Modern Minerals performs as well, if not better, than other brands I’ve used.  I personally prefer a pressed version so was also glad to hear that they are introducing that option as well.

In terms of packaging, glass is preferred for their liquid based body products and the plastic containers for the make up is recyclable.  And the price is very competitive with eye shadows at only $10.

Here’s your chance to win five brand new full size eyeshadow colors for summer which include:

• Daydream – nude pink with flecks of gold
• Tiramisu – the ultimate neutral for everyday
• Haiku – rose gold shimmer
• Hera – bronze shimmer
• Godiva – soft & rich brown, perfect for or brows

Note: To be eligible you must be a Modern Hippie Mag subscriber receiving our updates via email, or RSS, Facebook fan, and/or Twitter follower (tell us your Twitter name in your comment below).

(Complete the following in separate comments below for more chances to win!)

1. Visit ModernMinerals.com then leave a comment below telling us your experience with mineral makeup.

2. Follow Modern Minerals on Twitter, @modernminerals.

3. Show that you like Modern Minerals on Facebook.

4. Tweet this: {Giveaway} -Truth + Beauty = Modern Minerals http://ow.ly/24VgQ @modernminerals #mmmakeup

(Tweet often but don’t forget to add #mmmakeup to your tweet so that we can keep track!)

More details:

• Open to U.S. entrants only.
• Recipients chosen at random using Random.org.
• Won something in the last thirty days?  Last month’s winners are ineligible for this giveaway.
• Giveaway ends 12 midnight EST, on Tuesday, July 13, 2010.  Winner will be announced on Wednesday, July 14, 2010.
• Winner will be contacted via email and/or Twitter.  You will have 48 hours to respond at which time another winner will be randomly chosen.

Big thank you to Diane and Modern Minerals  for sponsoring this giveaway!

Jeanne Blaisdell publishes TheGreenSamaritan.com, her personal blog highlighting green living tips and information in order to help herself and others on their journey towards greater environmental awareness. She has also launched EcoAvenueLtd.com, an online shopping site featuring the latest deals and promotions from a collection of earth-friendly merchants. Jeanne lives in Greensboro, North Carolina with her husband Tom and two boys, Jack (10) and Ben (7). Find The Green Samaritan on Facebook, follow on Twitter @GreenSamaritan and @EcoAvenueltd.

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