There’s been quite a to-do lately on some of the blogs I like to read about independent mineral makeup companies purchasing pigments from manufacturers and simply repackaging them to sell to consumers. The problem is that these companies are claiming that these colors are created and/or developed by them, when in fact no creativity was involved at all.

My experience with mineral makeup, specifically eyeshadows, has been limited to companies like Bare Escentuals (who I’m assuming make their colors themselves), and smaller companies like AromaLeigh, Meow Cosmetics, Fyrinnae, and J. Lynne Cosmetics. These companies also create their own colors and formulas. I appreciate their creativity and the unique colors they have to offer. As a former small business owner (making soap and lotions), I especially respect the smaller companies’ dedication to their craft. I know what kind of time and effort and trial and error has to go into developing your own formulas and techniques and product! I also know how awesome it feels to develop a product that is truly all your own creation.

With that said, I want to wholeheartedly support the Mineral Makeup Mutiny.  I pledge to support independent companies that are doing interesting things with color, creating interesting shades, and working hard to make something new and different for their customers. I have no interest in supporting companies that buy pigments wholesale, divvy them up into smaller jars and slap a label on them. If I wanted that kind of product, I could do it myself.

I love makeup. I love fun, interesting colors, both bright and subtle, and so far some of my favorites have come from the aforementioned companies – like Cupcake Sprinkles from Fyrinnae and Strawberry Despair from AromaLeigh. The hard-working entrepreneurs behind these companies have earned our support and respect!