What's In Lipstick And How Is It Made?
The media is perpetually bombarding consumers with new cosmetic advertisements and revolutionary lipstick formulas. Though these ploys are always tempting, it is important to know exactly what ingredients are used in the process of making that bold lipstick, as well as the manufacturing process that allowed that tube of lipstick come to fruition. It may look shiny and pretty from a distance, but have you ever stopped and taken a glance at the list of ingredients?
Structure
Some of the most vital components of a lipstick are the waxes it contains. Waxes such as beeswax, carnauba wax, candelilla wax, and ozokerite provide stability and give structure to the lipstick. Carnauba wax is a particularly important part of many lipsticks as it acts as a strengthening agent due to its high melting point.
Durability
Lipstains and other products that claim to be long-wearing contain emollients like shea butter, cocoa butter, and aloe vera. These lightweight ingredients are not only responsible for keeping the lips soft and moisturized but also form a water resistant layer on the surface of the lips. As the emollients evaporate, only the pigment of the product is left behind, making it easier for it to adhere to the lips.
Smooth Application
Oils and fats such as petrolatum, mineral and vegetable oils, and lanolin maintain the softness of the product and ensure the application of the lipstick is smooth.
High Shine
Lipsticks that have a frosty or shimmery finish often contain synthetic pearl particles, mica, or silica. These microscopic materials reflect the light, thus giving the lips a shimmering finish. Lipsticks that appear more glossy simply contain more oil than others in order to give them a higher shine.
Matte Finish
Matte lipsticks, which are designed to appear flat on the lips, contain fewer oils and emollients and more sealing agents such as silica.
Pigment
The pigment is probably the most vital component of a lipstick- and the most fun since it's what gives it the color. Pigments can either be synthetic or natural (derived from plant and mineral sources).
Manufacturing Process
The actual production of lipstick involves melting and mixing the ingredients, pouring the mixture into molds, and packing/labeling the finished tubes. Lipsticks are generally mixed and processed in a regulated environment so that the risk of contamination is low. Due to the fact that lipsticks are virtually the only cosmetic product that can be consumed, there are strict guidelines imposed to ensure that only safe ingredients are being used.
Quick Tips
When applying any lipstick, it is helpful to keep your lips free of dry skin by exfoliating and moisturizing on a regular basis. To prevent the color from fading and feathering, concealer can be blended around the lips and set with a loose powder. This technique is used to fill in the lines around the mouth and prevent the lipstick from transferring onto the skin.