Illume Sheer Color Trio is a mineral makeup product by the brand Illume. It is a trio of sheer mineral powders designed to provide a natural, lightweight wash of color for the cheeks, lips and eyes. Mineral makeup has become popular in recent years due to its skin-friendly ingredients and buildable coverage. As the name suggests, Illume Sheer Color Trio provides a sheer, natural look when applied. Let’s take a closer look at the ingredients in this mineral makeup trio.
Overview of Key Ingredients
Here is an overview of the main ingredients found in Illume Sheer Color Trio:
| Ingredient Type | Key Ingredients | Purpose |
|---|---|---|
| Minerals | Mica, titanium dioxide, iron oxides | Provide color and coverage |
| Emollients | Isopropyl myristate, caprylic/capric triglyceride | Soften and smooth skin |
| Thickeners | Zea mays starch, silica | Provide texture and help adhere to skin |
| Preservatives | Phenoxyethanol, ethylhexylglycerin | Extend shelf life and prevent microbial growth |
The primary ingredients in Illume Sheer Color Trio are different mineral powders that provide sheer coverage and color for the cheeks, lips and eyes. The mica provides shimmer and luminosity, while the titanium dioxide and iron oxides add tints of color.
The formula also contains emollients, like isopropyl myristate and caprylic/capric triglyceride. These ingredients smooth and soften the skin to allow the powders to glide on easily. Thickeners like Zea mays starch and silica give the mineral powders their texture and help them adhere properly to the skin.
Finally, preservatives like phenoxyethanol and ethylhexylglycerin prevent microbial growth and extend the shelf life of the products. This allows the powders to remain fresh and safe to use for longer.
Full Ingredient List
Here is the complete ingredient list for the Illume Sheer Color Trio:
Blush Ingredients: Mica, Zinc Stearate, Dimethicone, Zea Mays Starch, Silica, Magnesium Myristate, Lauroyl Lysine, Boron Nitride, Nylon-12, Methicone, Glyceryl Caprylate, Phenoxyethanol, Caprylyl Glycol, Ethylhexylglycerin, Hexylene Glycol. May Contain: Titanium Dioxide (CI 77891), Iron Oxides (CI 77491, CI 77492, CI 77499), Ultramarines (CI 77007).
Lip & Cheek Ingredients: Mica, Dimethicone, Zea Mays Starch, Zinc Stearate, Lauroyl Lysine, Silica, Magnesium Myristate, Boron Nitride, Nylon-12, Methicone, Phenoxyethanol, Caprylyl Glycol, Ethylhexylglycerin, Hexylene Glycol. May Contain: Titanium Dioxide (CI 77891), Iron Oxides (CI 77491, CI 77492, CI 77499), Red 7 Lake (CI 15850), Red 27 Lake (CI 45410), Red 30 Lake (CI 73360), Yellow 5 Lake (CI 19140), Blue 1 Lake (CI 42090), Ultramarines (CI 77007).
Eye Color Ingredients: Mica, Caprylic/Capric Triglyceride, Isopropyl Myristate, Magnesium Stearate, Lauroyl Lysine, Boron Nitride, Silica, Methicone, Carnauba Wax, Phenoxyethanol, Caprylyl Glycol, Ethylhexylglycerin, Hexylene Glycol. May Contain: Titanium Dioxide (CI 77891), Iron Oxides (CI 77491, CI 77492, CI 77499), Ultramarines (CI 77007).
The three powders have very similar base ingredients like mica, dimethicone, Zea mays starch and silica. The Eye Color powder also contains emollients like caprylic/capric triglyceride and isopropyl myristate. The main differences are the mineral pigments used to provide the color. The Blush contains iron oxides, while the Lip & Cheek uses iron oxides and synthetic colorants lakes. The Eye Color relies on iron oxides and ultramarines for its shimmery tints.
Safety of Key Ingredients
The key ingredients used in Illume Sheer Color Trio are considered safe and non-toxic for use in cosmetics and skincare:
Mica – Mica is an naturally-occurring mineral that provides shimmer, smoothness and color. It is approved for use in cosmetics and considered non-toxic and non-irritating. However, some concerns exist around mica mining practices.
Titanium dioxide – This FDA-approved mineral provides opacity and sun protection. Nano-sized titanium dioxide may have some toxicity concerns, but the titanium dioxide used in Illume is non-nano.
Iron oxides – These iron minerals provide shades of yellow, red and black. Iron oxides are safe, stable and approved for cosmetic use.
Dimethicone – Dimethicone is a silicone commonly used to impart a soft, smooth skin feel. It is considered safe and non-toxic.
Zea mays starch – Also called corn starch, this acts as a texture enhancer. It is a plant-derived ingredient that is safe and non-irritating.
Silica – Silica is used as a thickening agent and abrasive scrub in skincare products. It has a long history of safe use.
Isopropyl myristate – This emollient softens the skin and reduces dryness. It is considered a relatively non-toxic and non-irritating ingredient.
So in summary, the key ingredients in Illume Sheer Color Trio are well-tolerated minerals and synthetic ingredients that provide color and skin feel benefits when applied. The ingredients have been safely used in many cosmetics and skincare formulations.
Benefits of Key Ingredients
Here are some of the main benefits provided by key ingredients in the Illume Sheer Color Trio:
- Mica – Gives a pearlescent, luminous finish. Provides a sheer wash of mineral color.
- Titanium dioxide – Acts as a sunscreen by protecting skin from UV damage. Provides opacity.
- Iron oxides – Offer buildable, natural-looking color in shades of red, yellow, brown and black.
- Dimethicone – Creates a silky smooth feel and soft focus effect on the skin.
- Zea mays starch – Absorbs oil and gives the powder a creamy texture that adheres to skin.
- Silica – Absorbs oil and helps the powder adhere to the skin to stay put all day.
- Emollients – Hydrate and smooth skin for an effortless, blendable application.
The mineral powders, emollients and thickeners in Illume Sheer Color Trio work together to create a lightweight product that goes on smoothly. The ingredients nourish the skin while providing buildable sheer coverage and a luminous finish.
Drawbacks of Any Ingredients
Most ingredients in Illume Sheer Color Trio are well-tolerated and non-irritating for everyday use. However, there are a few potential drawbacks to be aware of:
Mica – Ethical mining and sourcing are a concern with mica. Child labor may be involved in some regions. Sustainable sourced mica addresses these issues.
Talc – Talc is not listed but is closely related to mica. Talc has been linked to respiratory issues if inhaled and may contain asbestos.
Synthetic dyes – Colorants like Red 27 Lake and Yellow 5 Lake are made from petrochemicals. They can cause irritation or allergy in some people. Natural mineral pigments are healthier alternatives.
Nano-particles – Titanium dioxide and zinc oxide nanoparticles may have toxicity concerns due to their size allowing penetration into cells. However, Illume likely uses larger non-nano particles.
Silicones – Ingredients like dimethicone and methicone form a film on the skin that can potentially clog pores for acne-prone skin. They also cannot be penetrated by other skincare products.
Overall, Illume Sheer Color Trio avoids most concerning ingredients like parabens, phthalates, sulfates, formaldehyde and oxybenzone. Those with sensitive skin should still check for potential irritants based on personal tolerances.
Comedogenic Ratings
Here are the comedogenic ratings of key ingredients in Illume Sheer Color Trio:
| Ingredient | Comedogenic Rating (0-5) |
|---|---|
| Isopropyl Myristate | 3 |
| Dimethicone | 2 |
| Zea Mays Starch | 1 |
| Caprylic/Capric Triglyceride | 2 |
| Silica | 0 |
| Mica | 0 |
Comedogenic ratings indicate the likelihood an ingredient will clog pores and cause breakouts or acne. 0 means non-comedogenic, while 5 is very comedogenic.
Isopropyl myristate has the highest rating of 3, which means it has a moderate chance of clogging pores. Dimethicone and caprylic/capric triglyceride are mildly comedogenic. Zea mays starch has a low likelihood of causing acne. Mica and silica are non-comedogenic.
Those with very clog-prone skin may want to do a patch test first, but most skin types should tolerate Illume Sheer Color Trio well. The emollients help minimize whiteheads and breakouts. Proper cleansing after use is advised.
Conclusion
Illume Sheer Color Trio relies on a combination of minerals, emollients and thickeners to deliver a lightweight wash of color for the cheeks, lips and eyes. Mica, titanium dioxide and iron oxides provide buildable sheer coverage with a luminous finish. Skin-softening ingredients like isopropyl myristate allow the powders to glide on smoothly. Thickeners give the mineral pigments their silky, blendable texture.
While a few ingredients like isopropyl myristate and dimethicone may be moderately comedogenic, most skin types can safely use and enjoy these multipurpose mineral powders. Proper use and cleansing should minimize the risk of breakouts or irritation occurring. Overall, Illume Sheer Color Trio delivers effortless, customizable color in a non-toxic formula suitable for everyday wear.
