ABSTRACT
Full coverage powders contain predominantly talc, also known as hydrated magnesium silicate, and increased amounts of covering pigments. The covering pigments used in face powder are listed in order of increasing opaqueness: titanium dioxide, kaolin, magnesium carbonate, magnesium stearate, zinc stearate, prepared chalk, zinc oxide, rice starch, precipitated chalk, and talc. It is generally accepted that the optimum opacity is achieved with a particle size of 0.25 µm. Magnesium carbonate can also be used to improve oil blotting, keep the powder fluffy, and absorb any added perfume. Kaolin (hydrated aluminum silicate) may also function to absorb oil and perspiration. Full-coverage face powders are usually packaged in a compact and applied to the face with a puff ( Fig. 13.1 ) ( 1 ).
