Physicians Formula Mineral Wear® Talc Free Loose Powder, Translucent Medium
Analysis updated August 2026 · How Scout scores
At a glance
Summary
This product contains beneficial ingredients like zinc oxide and tocopheryl acetate, which offer protective and antioxidant properties. However, the presence of propylparaben, a preservative with potential endocrine-disrupting effects, lowers its safety profile. The product is processed, which also impacts its overall rating, despite the inclusion of some skin-friendly components.
Key ingredients 8
MICAGood
Beneficial ingredient — whole-food or functional value in this product class.
Risks
Potential contamination with heavy metals if not properly sourced.
Benefits
Provides a natural shimmer and glow to cosmetic products.
ZINC OXIDEGood
Zinc oxide is a mineral used for its protective properties against UV radiation. It is considered safe and effective as a physical sunscreen agent. In powder form, it may not provide the same level of sun protection as in creams or lotions.
Risks
Inhalation of fine particles can be a concern in powder form.
Benefits
Offers broad-spectrum UV protection and is gentle on the skin.
TOCOPHERYL ACETATEGood
Tocopheryl acetate is a form of vitamin E used for its antioxidant properties. It is considered safe and beneficial for skin health. It helps protect the skin from oxidative damage.
Risks
Rarely, it can cause skin irritation in sensitive individuals.
Benefits
Acts as an antioxidant, protecting the skin from free radical damage.
LAUROYL LYSINENeutral
Lauroyl lysine is an amino acid derivative used to improve the texture and feel of cosmetic products. It is generally considered safe and non-irritating. It enhances the spreadability and adherence of powders.
Benefits
Improves the texture and application of cosmetic products.
ZINC STEARATENeutral
Zinc stearate is used as a lubricant and thickening agent in cosmetics. It is generally recognized as safe for use in personal care products. It helps improve the texture and consistency of powders.
Risks
Inhalation of fine particles can be a concern in powder form.
Benefits
Enhances the texture and consistency of cosmetic formulations.
BORON NITRIDENeutral
Boron nitride is used in cosmetics for its soft-focus and oil-absorbing properties. It is considered safe for use in personal care products. It provides a silky feel and helps control shine.
Risks
Inhalation of fine particles can be a concern in powder form.
Benefits
Improves the feel and oil control of cosmetic products.
TITANIUM DIOXIDE (CI 77891)Neutral
Titanium dioxide is a mineral used for its whitening and UV-protective properties. It is considered safe and effective as a physical sunscreen agent. In powder form, it may not provide the same level of sun protection as in creams or lotions.
Risks
Inhalation of fine particles can be a concern in powder form.
Benefits
Provides UV protection and whitening effects in cosmetics.
PROPYLPARABENVery Bad
Propylparaben is a preservative used to prevent microbial growth in cosmetics. It is effective but has raised concerns due to potential endocrine-disrupting effects. Regulatory bodies consider it safe at low concentrations, but consumer preference is shifting away from parabens.
Risks
Potential endocrine disruption and allergic reactions in sensitive individuals.
Benefits
Prevents microbial growth, extending the shelf life of cosmetic products.
Processing
Processed Foods
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