A few weeks ago I rediscovered these pressed mineral shadows from Pür Minerals while looking through my makeup collection. They were given to me as gifts over a year ago. For the past few years I have used loose mineral eyeshadows from Bare Escentuals. While I love the colours and shade range of loose shadows I don’t like the mess that they can make. I also find that loose shadows take longer to apply considering that they must be packed on to the lid very carefully in order to avoid fallout. That’s why I was excited to remember that I had a few pressed shadows in a mineral formula that is gentle on sensitive eyes.
The Pür Minerals website (www.purminerals.com) states that their “velvety-smooth eye shadow glides on easily, giving you a crease-proof, soft-textured look that lasts all day. Infused with the light reflective mineral mica, this mineral eye shadow imparts a youthful finish that women of all ages will love.” This product is also free of petroleum-based oils, alcohol, talc, fillers, fragrances, preservatives and chemical dyes.
It sounds great, but how does it compare to non-mineral shadows?
After using these shadows for the past few weeks I can agree that they do have a smooth velvety formula that glides on easily and is crease proof. I always wear a primer under shadow and these shadows last just as long as non-mineral shadows when worn overtop a primer.
The formula seems to contain less moisture than non-mineral shadows as it feels a bit drier on the lid. This, however, may be due to the fact that these shadows are matte for the most part. I normally prefer shadows with a bit of shimmer. Also, the shadows are not as pigmented as non-mineral shadows but are fairly buildable. I do wish that the brand produced a larger range of colours as many of its shades are neutral.
As for the colours, Vanilla Feldspar is my favourite. It has a slight sheen and works well as a natural looking highlight or all over lid colour. Rose Quartz is very similar but has more pink undertones and has less of a sheen. I like to use these two colours on a daily basis for a “your lids but better” effect. Chocolate Topaz is my least favourite. I have never liked brown shadows as they make me look tired. This shadow is no exception and its warm undertones are less than flattering on my cool toned skin.
I am very impressed with the packaging. As you can see in the photo below, the bottom of each shadow opens to reveal a tiny mirror and sponge-tip applicator which is perfect for travelling or on-the-go touch ups.
At $14 USD / $16 CAD for .08 oz/2.2 g, these shadows are more affordable than MAC shadows which cost $14.50 USD / $17.50 CAD for 0.05 oz /1.5 g and Bare Minerals shadows that are $13 USD for .02 oz / .57 g
I’m not sure where these shadows can be purchased in the USA or in other parts of the world but Canadians can find the Pür Minerals line at certain Shoppers Drug Mart Stores and at www.theshoppingchannel.com
My rating: 4/5
*click photos to enlarge*
- in all photos the shadows are in order from left to right: Vanilla Feldspar, Chocolate Topaz, and Rose Quartz -
