Before make-up became part of my business, I was completely perplexed by the vast array of product lines. From merchandise within the lines, tools for applying, and products for removing make-up, it was tough to tell one product from another. In those days, I found even choosing the wrong color could lead to a make-up malfunction, and it was all very intimidating.

When I had the opportunity for a makeover, I didn’t recognize myself in the mirror and it was far from the look I was seeking. From that point in my life, l shied away from the bright lights and colorful faces behind the make-up counters at the malls and walked the lonely aisles of the drug stores on what seemed like a never-ending journey. I was looking for simple products that wouldn’t lead to a break out, and that would work to enhance, not overcome or define, my look.

It was not long after I began working in the spa industry that mineral make-ups starting making their appearance. As a matter of fact, some of the skincare lines in the spa started producing their own make-up with skin health in mind. I never thought I would see the day when our “veteran” esthetic team would stop recommending that their clients forgo make-up, but after our clean-skin advocates returned from mineral make-up training, they had an entirely fresh outlook. They summed it up very nicely for the rest of us: pure mineral make-up binds to oils, not water, making it naturally water resistant, and much better for your skin than traditional make-up with fewer chemical dyes, mineral oils, preservatives and other ingredients that often irritate skin and cause breakouts.

It is quite a different premise from the spa products we are used to because it is not about the ingredients that are added to make it effective, it is all about what is left out! In this case, less was more, and it became clear I did not need to continue adding to the mounds of make-up in my collection. I simply needed to find a few essential pieces that worked for me.

That is when I decided to take a leap of faith and ask for help again, this time from my esthetician, and it set me on the right path to “make-up made simpler.” I began learning all about the benefits of mineral make-up, and observing individuals with problem skin conditions, such as acne and rosacea, tolerate mineral make-up with great success. Some people even see anti-inflammatory benefits from the zinc and titanium oxide, and the extra SPF it offers is like icing on the cake.

If you are looking for a simpler and healthier alternative for your make-up drawer, give mineral make up a try.

Cristina Casio is the spa director at the Hyatt Regency Indian Wells’ Agua Serena Spa. Their skin care professionals offer complimentary mineral make-up color matches with your facial treatment. Don’t miss this month’s exclusive offer for Desert Health^® readers! For more information, visit aguaserenaspa.com or call 760.674.4100.