You may have heard about mica and all the controversy surrounding it. Despite being one of the main components of almost every eyeshadow palette available on the market, there are many questions about whether it is toxic or not and where it comes from. Here we explain everything about it.
The main controversies with mica:
- In countries like India and Madagascar, massive producers of mica, there are significant concerns about the use of child labour in mining.
- Not knowing what mica is, many people think it is a 100% toxic ingredient and this is false.
- Mica is essential to give that pearlescent/shiny effect to bronzers, blushes and especially eyeshadows.
Let us tell you more...
To begin with, what is mica?
Well, it's a mineral found in nature and it’s used in a variety of cosmetic products, especially eyeshadows, due to its ability to reflect light and provide a pearlescent sheen. Let's just say that it's basically what makes your eyeshadows look super shiny and everyone will be raving about them during the day.
Is mica toxic?
In its pure form, mica is not considered toxic or hazardous to human health.
However, it is important to note that some forms of mica may contain trace amounts of other minerals, such as mercury, lead or lithium, which could pose health risks if ingested/inhaled. So basically mica could harm you only if you inhale it in large quantities.
In the cosmetics industry, mica is often treated and processed to ensure its safety and purity. Cosmetic manufacturers often follow strict regulations to ensure that their products are safe for human use. In addition, cosmetic products containing mica are usually designed to be applied externally to the skin and not to be ingested, which reduces any potential risks associated with mica.
Is mica toxic?
In its pure form, mica is not considered toxic or hazardous to human health.
However, it is important to note that some forms of mica may contain trace amounts of other minerals, such as mercury, lead or lithium, which could pose health risks if ingested/inhaled. So basically mica could harm you only if you inhale it in large quantities.
In the cosmetics industry, mica is often treated and processed to ensure its safety and purity. Cosmetic manufacturers often follow strict regulations to ensure that their products are safe for human use. In addition, cosmetic products containing mica are usually designed to be applied externally to the skin and not to be ingested, which reduces any potential risks associated with mica.
Is mica good for the skin?
Mica doesn't really offer any skin care or treatment benefits and no, it won't harm your skin.
It is commonly used in cosmetic products for its ability to provide brightness, luminosity and a radiant appearance to the skin. When added to products such as foundation, bronzers, blushers or illuminating powders, mica can help create a more vibrant and healthy look. In addition to its great aesthetic appearance, mica powder has a soft, fine texture, which makes it easy to apply to the skin and helps create an even, smooth appearance.
What's the problem with mica?
The mining and processing of mica has been an international issue for years.
Labour and child exploitation:
Miners who work extracting mica are exposed to hazardous working conditions and unfair practices. Also, the procurement of this ingredient has increased child labour. This happens a lot in countries such as India, China, Brazil and Madagascar, who are the main producers of this compound in the world.
Environmental impact:
Mica mining can have negative effects on the environment. Mica mining often involves deforestation and land degradation, which can affect local biodiversity and contribute to soil erosion. In addition, many unregulated mining practices can contaminate water and soil with toxic chemicals.
Transparency and traceability in the supply chain:
There is a lack of transparency in the supply chain. There are often companies that do not trace where their mica comes from, which can lead to unethical and unsustainable sourcing.
In which of our products can you find this ingredient?
Eyeshadow Palette - MÍRAME
Mica is a key ingredient in eyeshadows and other cosmetic products due to several specific properties, which is why it is present in our MIRAME eyeshadow palette.
Its crystalline structure reflects light, which adds a shimmer and a luminous effect to the shadows, creating a shimmering or pearlescent finish that enhances the appearance of the eyes. In addition, the mica has a very fine, smooth texture that facilitates the application of the shadows, allowing them to glide smoothly over the eyelids and blend easily, resulting in an even, patch-free application. The versatility of mica allows for a wide range of finishes, from matte to ultra-shimmery, providing diverse options for looks ranging from natural to dramatic.
Solid Lip Serum - ACARÍCIAME
Mica contributes to the texture of our ACARÍCIAME solid lip serums, improving their applicability and feel. Its fine and smooth texture facilitates an even and gliding application on the lips, avoiding lumps and providing a homogeneous coverage. This is especially important in solid lip serums, where evenness and smoothness of application are key to a professional finish and a fresh feel.
AORA Makeup’s commitment to the use of mica
Some of our products at AORA Makeup, such as our Mírame eyeshadows and Acaríciame lip serums are made with mica to give them a shimmering effect. We are happy to tell you that all the mica we use comes from 100% ethical sources and we have certifications to back it up. At AORA Makeup our commitment is not only to our consumers, but extends to all means of production. Our mission is to be a clean makeup brand, with clean formulas and recyclable packaging that doesn't pollute the planet.
A little more about the history of AORA Makeup
AORA Makeup , founded in 2022 by Nour Tayara and Rodrigo Peñafiel is a clean, plastic-free makeup brand based in CDMX that redefines luxury and sustainable beauty.
The brand was born out of a need to reduce plastic waste in the beauty industry and to celebrate Mexico's rich culture. Its products, such as the MÍRAME eyeshadow palette, ACARÍCIAME solid lip serum and ADMÍRAME eyeliner, are designed with durable materials and are free of toxic ingredients.
AORA Makeup stands out for its dermatologically tested formulas, free of animal cruelty and developed with professional make-up artists, ensuring quality and safety. The brand's philosophy is to innovate in clean beauty, using recyclable and reusable packaging, while educating consumers about environmental responsibility and encouraging a change in consumer habits.
AORA Makeup positions itself as a force for change, inviting everyone to experience a new way of living color and demanding a true transformation in the beauty industry.
