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Colour Me Happy: How to Colour Match Cosmetics

Posted on November 3, 2017 by Belinda Carli — 2 comments

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In this video, I walk through how to colour match cosmetics in the lab with a real-world example. In this case, I’m trying to colour match to a more generalized description, without the benefit of a specific product to colour match to.

This issue frequently surfaces when working with market or concept developers, or brand managers, specifically when developing lipsticks. A request may come in for a lipstick that is “more pink” or “more red,” for example. There are so many colour variations in the spectrum, as well as individual perceptions, that it can be beneficial to create several options to help guide further development.

If a specific sample is not available for colour matching, consider requesting a Pantone color as an example for your benchmark starting point.

Colour matching pro tips:

  • Start with a large batch of plain base product, then use smaller portions to create your samples, so the base is always consistent.
  • Use three-digit scales (e.g. 0.001g) to make precise measurements to will create reproducible large-batch results.
    • Make sure the lab is wind-free (e.g. air conditioning or fans). Even the smallest amount of air can throw off the scales.
  • Take notes about all your measurements and results to further ensure accuracy: base product, pigments, additives, etc.
  • Start with very small samples (e.g. 10g) to present options, which will help conserve materials and determine the course of further development.
  • When testing samples on skin, apply across the arm, so differences in skin tone don’t impact visualization.
  • Keep comparison samples so when a choice is finalized, you can use it to scale up production.
  • Be patient – colour matching often takes multiple samples to get the desired colour.

Interested in more colour matching information? See the second video in the series here.

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The views, opinions and technical analyses presented here are those of the author, and are not necessarily those of UL, ULProspector.com or Knowledge.ULProspector.com. While the editors of this site make every effort to verify the accuracy of its content, we assume no responsibility for errors made by the author, editorial staff or any other contributor. All content is subject to copyright and may not be reproduced without prior authorization from Prospector.

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Filed Under: Personal Care, Personal Care & Cosmetics Tagged With: formulation challenge

Belinda Carli

About Belinda Carli

Belinda Carli is the Director of the Institute of Personal Care Science, an International Training Organisation providing Certificate and Diplomas via distance education in the formulation, development, brand management and regulatory affairs for personal care and cosmetics.

She is a regular presenter at major International events and her work can be found in many national and international publications and Special Chem formulators site. She is the Official Technical Advisor to the in-cosmetics Group internationally; and has written five books on Beginners and Advanced Cosmetic Formulation, Organic and Colour Cosmetic Formulation and Brand Management.

She has a Bachelor of Natural Therapies, a Diploma of Cosmetic Science and Certificate IV in Training and Assessment. She is a member of the Australian Society of Cosmetic Chemists (ASCC). She was the winner of the 2013 Annual Industry Award from CHC Australia for her contribution to research and training and was a finalist in the Australian 2010 Telstra Business Women’s Awards in three categories.

2 Responses to “Colour Me Happy: How to Colour Match Cosmetics”

  1. Dan Bosmann says:
    November 5, 2017 at 12:16 pm

    I’ve been color matching cosmetics for 37 years and these tips at most are basic.

    Direct Reply
    • Angie Pedersen says:
      November 6, 2017 at 10:14 am

      Thank you for your feedback, Dan. Our audience varies in background and experience, so we try to provide a variety of topics and education. Is there more in-depth content you were looking for?

      Thanks!
      Angie
      Content Manager, Prospector Knowledge Center

      Direct Reply

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