Synthetic Mica Pigments for Color Cosmetics
Posted: June 21, 2011
Impact Colors Inc. has launched a line of synthetic mica-based pigments with low heavy metal content and bright colors. The Fiesta Color Effect Pigments line is comprised of 48 pigments that are offered in three ranges.
Fiesta Gold & Metallics includes Fiesta Super Gold (INCI: Synthetic Fluorphlogopite (and) Iron Oxides (and) Silica) and Fiesta Red Brown Glitter (INCI: Synthetic Fluorphlogopite (and) Iron Oxides), among others.
Fiesta Iridescence features Fiesta Satin Blue (INCI: Synthetic Amethystogopite (and) Titanium Dioxide (and) Tin Oxide) and Fiesta Shimmer Amethyst (INCI: Synthetic Fluorphlogopite (and) Titanium Dioxide (and) Tin Oxide), etc.
Finally, the Fiesta Whites range highlights shades such as Fiesta Maxima White (INCI: Synthetic Fluorphlogopite (and) Titanium Dioxide (and) Tin Oxide) and Fiesta Shimmer White (INCI: Synthetic Fluorphlogopite (and) Titanium Dioxide (and) Tin Oxide), among others.
According to the company, synthetic mica pigments have a number of formulation advantages over natural mica pigments, including: a brighter color, consistent color, controllable particle size, resistance to breakage, and versatile pigment options. Regarding brighter color, pearlescent pigments depend on reflected and refracted light to create unique and dramatic effects. Conversely, synthetic mica allows light to pass through, achieving brighter color, greater luster and accentuating the pearl effect. This is because synthetic mica pigments are laid out and classified by particle size, and the material is a single layer thick—less opaque than natural mica. Substrates built from these single layers therefore produce increased reflection and depth of field.