I’m a pageant girl. I love, love LOVE all things sparkly. My jewelry collection (formed on a Dave-Ramsey-following-teacher’s budget) has it’s share of silvery and earth-toned items, but my favorite things are always the ones with sparkly stones. And, at age 34, even some of my decor still includes sparkle and glitter. Hey, it’s my space! Why not?
Naturally, I’m drawn to makeup that involves some shimmer. I’m not talking about a fierce, glittery, going-out look – I’m referring to that little bit of shimmer that you see in eye shadow or highlighter, or in some lipglosses or body lotions. It’s fun and it’s fashionable…but it often comes at a cost to someone else.
The mineral used to create this shimmery effect is called mica. It’s a shimmery mineral found in parts of Asia, Africa, and even in some areas of North and South America.Mica can be listed in cosmetics as “mica,” “potassium aluminium silicate” or “CI 77019”. It is usually not considered harmful (although some people can be sensitive or allergic to it), and it can be a vital part of local economies. While ethically sourced mica is available, it is estimated that 60% of mica used in the cosmetic industry comes from parts of south eastern Asia, where labor exploitation and child labor trafficking is rampant.
In this video, Refinery29 and journalist Lexy Lebsack venture into a village in India to observe children and families working in mica mines. Many of the children talk about longing to attend school, but it is not a financial option for them or their families. In heartbreaking moments, young children tell Lebsack about their peers who were killed when part of the mine collapsed. Just as they prepare to lower the camera into one of the ominous-looking mines, Lebsack and her team are forced to make a quick exit, as they are warned that “Someone is coming!” The people behind these mines know that their work is evil and corrupted, and they don’t want it being shown to the rest of the world. Lebsack goes on to explain that broken bones and other serious injuries, as well as respiratory issues are all too common among the children. Sadly, because of the low pay and long hours that prevent children from attending school, many of them are caught in a cycle of poverty that will continue for generations.
Lesback offers hope as she describes the Child Friendly Village Model that Human Rights groups strive to create. She also talks about Lush Cosmetics and their commitment to using synthetic mica in all their products. Other makeup brands that use ethically sourced mica or no mica at all include:
Crunchi: Crunchi is committed to cosmetics that are safe for the wearer, the environment, and ethically sourced. I bought a bronzer and a lipstick from them just recently and loved both- they go on with just enough color to “pop” but still look subtle, and they stayed on throughout the day. The bronzer actually doesn’t have any shimmer to it- which is good. In my foundation and contouring tutorial last month, I explained why bronzer should be matte! This link takes you to my friend, Tasha; if you shop here she will be your advocate and will receive a small commission.
Omiana: Omiana makeup is made with ethically sourced mica and cruelty free, mainly vegan raw materials. I bought an eye-shadow tri-color pallet from them and demonstrated it in an eyeshadow tutorial last month. The pigment is light, but that makes for an easier natural look!
Devinah Cosmetics: Devinah is an Indie makeup line that is great for bright colors and over-the top artistry. I haven’t been able to try their products yet but I’d love to hear from anyone who has! What I do know is that they are cruelty free and committed to ethically sourced products.
BeautyCounter: Some people might cringe at anything related to direct sales or multi-level marketing, but I’ve had overall positive interactions with their consultants. This link takes you to my friend, Angela, but if you have a friend or family who is a consultant I encourage you to buy from them. BeautyCounter is a certified B Corporation and they are committed to using safe, ethical ingredients in their cosmetics. This link takes you to my friend, Angela. If you shop through it, she will be your consultant and will receive a small comission.
Mica is a seemingly small ingredient that we can easily overlook- but for those trapped in the mines, it is a consuming cycle of poverty and modern-day slavery. Remember: as you shop for your cosmetics, your money is your voice!