Color Cosmetics
A Review of Gel Nail Technologies
Jan 29, 2015
This article reviews the technologies behind gel nails and recent trends in them. The underlying photochemistry of monomers, oligomers and photoinitiators also is discussed, to give the reader a better understanding of the performance and challenges associated with gel nails.
What's Cooking in Color
Jan 29, 2015
This collection of articles is focused on key technical challenges in developing color products; for example, formulating to improve pigment dispersion and shade-matching in lipstick. Research on progressive steps toward comfortable wear and transfer-resistance in makeup is described, as well as improvements in the durability, color and drying time of gel nails.
Sponsored Content
Pure, High-definition Pigments for a Colorful Face
Jan 26, 2015
People are accustomed to seeing things that are crisp, clean, colorful and beautiful. Chione HD (High Definition) pigments from BASF bring the same degree of high-definition performance to the world of cosmetics.
Read the Label Online: bareMinerals Complexion Rescue Tinted Hydrating Gel Cream
Jan 15, 2015
BareMinerals launched Complexion Rescue Tinted Hydrating Gel Cream as “The best of a BB, a CC, and a tinted moisturizer...with a 215% increase in skin hydration after just one week. This column will review the ingredient listing for claims substantiation.
Formulating Lip Gloss
Jan 12, 2015
Lip glosses combine the properties of color cosmetics and lip balm to offer high shine, lip enhancement and pleasantness, accompanied by protection and soothing benefits. To offer these properties, lip glosses must incorporate a complex blend of oils, waxes, thickeners and tackifiers. Various modern technologies allow the formulator to assemble sensorially enchanting lip glosses.
Silicone Elastomer Technologies for Feel and Performance
Nov 1, 2014
Obtaining the desired feel and performance in a formula has been greatly simplified by the evolution of silicone chemistry. Silicones have been popular cosmetic ingredients for decades, and have led to innovative textures in skin care and makeup. Though they began as basic linear polymer systems, technologies have evolved to develop various forms from these main backbones.
Copolymer to Improve Pigment Dispersion in Lipsticks
Oct 3, 2014
Lipstick is formulated with pigments for the obvious reason of color, but formulators always face the same technical difficulties of pigment dispersion and final shade matching. The present article explores solving these two lipstick dilemmas with an amphiphilic copolymer to improve pigment dispersion and texture of lipsticks.
Impact Colors Releases Color Trends 2016+
Sep 17, 2014
Impact Colors has released its color trends report for 2016 and beyond. The seventh annual Color Trends 2016+ highlights four distinct trends: Artland, Enchanted, Cosmos and Rendezvous.
Guide to Powder Behavior
Jun 9, 2014
Freeman Technology has published a free educational guide, titled "An Introduction to Powders."
Approaches and Issues in Powder Formulations
May 1, 2014
Powder cosmetic products (both pressed and loose) include foundations, eye shadows, primers, blushes, bronzers and all-over shimmer powders. Though the raw materials used in them often are similar, the processing, texture, packaging, applicators and application, along with color development, vary for each type. These variations are described here.
Lubrizol Announces New Polymer for Pigmented Formulations
Mar 31, 2014
The Lubrizol Corporation developed a new polymer that is targeted for use in pigmented skin care, sun care and color cosmetic formulations.
Read the Label Online: Revlon Parfumerie Scented Nail Enamel
Feb 18, 2014
I used to think that scented nail polish was created for “tweens,” but not anymore with the launch of Revlon's Parfumerie Scented Nail Enamel, available in 24 scented shades. This column will review the ingredient listing for functionality and claims substantiation.
Formulating with Natural Colors
Jan 24, 2014
The chromophores that generate appealing colors in nature can also function as natural colorants in cosmetics. Here, some specific natural colors are reviewed. In order to apply them, however, formulators must be aware of the commercially available materials and know which are allowed under local regulations; such restrictions also are described.
Cheek to Cheek: Deciphering Stains and Blushes
Jan 23, 2014
Cheek stains and blushes are intended for a lightly shaded color that is well-blended. Such formulations must provide a transparent hue as well as exhibit wear-resistance. Here, these requirements are described, as are formula approaches and commercial examples. In relation, recent research has mostly aimed at increasing the permanence of pigments on skin; such new ingredients are discussed.
Technology-driven Trends in Nail Polish Color and Texture
Jan 15, 2014
This article reviews several of the latest nail polish trends including nail strips, textures, crackle, magnetic, breathable and color-changing effects. Also discussed are the underlying technologies and raw materials that produce these unique nail effects.
Read the Label Online: Online RTL: L'Oréal Paris Extraordinnaire Gel Lacquer 1-2-3
Jan 14, 2014
L'Oréal Paris claims to have invented the “perfect nail polish” with Extraordinaire Gel-Lacquer 1-2-3 that delivers the long-lasting (up to 14 days!) manicure effects of a UV-gel manicure without the “harmful” UV rays or salon appointments.
Read the Label Online: Philosophy Supernatural Airbrushed Canvas SPF 15
Jan 7, 2014
Philosophy Supernatural Airbrushed Canvas SPF 15 features “convertible” pigments that offer “buildable” coverage from light to heavy. Available in three shades, the foundation claims “to conceal, camouflage and protect” in an oil-free, talc-free and fragrance- free formula.
Radiant Orchid Blossoms as Pantone's Color of the Year for 2014
Dec 5, 2013
Serving as a symbol of growth, renewal and prosperity, Pantone hue Radiant Orchid—a mix of fuchsia, purple and pink—has been named 2014's color of the year. In beauty applications, Radiant Orchid is a modern and surprisingly versatile shade—it enlivens the skin, making all who wear it feel more healthy and energetic. Blending both cool and warm undertones, purple is an appealing hue for distinctive combinations and flattering to many hair, eye and skin tones.
Read the Label: Bumble and Bumble Spraychalk
Dec 4, 2013
One of the first mainstream temporary hair colors to come to market is the Bumble and Bumble's spraychalk. This product is a “wild, quick-dry tinted hairspray for a splash of color and style” that comes in various colors. This column will review the ingredient listing for functionality.
Almost Magic
Dec 1, 2013
As I write this, I have just made a bold appearance in Rio de Janeiro; and no, this has nothing to do with topless beaches. At the 2013 IFSCC Conference, colleagues were surprised by my feisty new auburn hair color, formerly a light blonde. In fact, some did not recognize me. My bold appearance even made its way into a media demonstration at the L’Oréal Research Center, although to show hair damage, but still. . . Cosmetics & Toiletries' latest collection of articles is also all about appearances.