As for application, mineral makeup foundation often comes in jars or baggies of powder—the best way to apply foundation is to get a kabuki-style brush or foundation brush, swirl and tap off the extra powder, then apply to your face and blend as much as you can. It’s best to start off light and build coverage in layers. Otherwise, you will find a variety of cream, pencils, and other usual cosmetics that you apply as usual.

The best way to delve into mineral makeup is to order a few samples, and you can often email their customer service for expert help on a shade that would be likely to fit you.

And with this, feel empowered to take on the underground beauty scene of independent, mineral make-up: don’t take our word for it, explore it for yourself, and if you’re especially adventurous, consider making your own.

As Boyce of B.L.A.C. minerals shared in an e-mail, just remember that “the best beauty product a women can have is confidence; with that she is a force to be reckoned with.”