All You Need To Know About Dyes and Lakes

Food colour is divided into two broad categories, artificial and natural. The former is also known as certified colour and each batch of this colour when manufactured is tested by the FDA (Food and Drug Organization). When this institute approve of the sample tested, the product obtains certification which declares it fit for consumption according to the predefined standards set by the government. Therefore, it is known as certified colour; however, there are some colours which can be used for drugs and cosmetics dyes but not for food products.

There are numerous groups which are interested in natural colours however; most food and confectionery products are now created using artificial colours. Listed below are the seven dyes commonly used for food products.

• FD&C Red 3 – It offers a pink shade when dissolved in water.
• FD&C Red 40 – It provides a red shade when dissolved in water.
• FD&C Yellow 5 – This dye offers a yellow shade after being dissolved in water.
• FD&C Yellow 6 – This dye on being dissolved in water offers orange shade.
• FD&C Blue 1 – This dye offers sky blue shade on being dissolved.
• FD&C Blue 2 – This dye creates dark blue shade on being dissolved in water.
• FD&C Green 3 – With this dye one can get a bluish green shade on dissolving it in water and it is one of the most rarely used food colours. It is also the most expensive dye and is not exactly a green shade. It is much closer to aqua and can be created using Yellow 5 and Blue 1, without having to such a high price for the original dye. By adding the above mentioned colours in combinations one can create almost any shade of cosmetic lake colours.

All the FD&C colours are created by using dyes or aluminium lakes. Listed below are some prominent differences between Dyes and Lakes.

Dyes are distinct chemicals which on being dissolved in water display their colouring power. They are water soluble, do not mix with oils and can be purchased as power format granular form which is comparatively less dusty.

Aluminium lake colours are insoluble substances which offer tints on being dispersed. Lakes are created using dyes and can be dispersed in oil. However, they are not soluble in oil and therefore are often mixed with oils and fats. These substances can also be dissolved in other carriers including sugar solution and glycerine.

Application of Lakes

• Colouring a fat based product – Chocolate and other compound coatings are some of the products used, and for creating the colour, lakes are dispersed in highly stable and premium quality vegetable oil. This dispersion is then added directly to the chocolate to dye it according to the colour one requires.
• Resistance in bleeding – Dyes are soluble and therefore bleed, and move from part of the product to another. This is problematic in case of products with multiple colours and well defined boundaries. If bleeding is an issue lakes might be substituted instead of dyes.
• Hard panning – This is the technique used for dyeing the outside layer of pills or gum balls. For this purpose a sugar and water dispersion is created.

Why Are Colouring Agents Added To Medicines?

From the times of Ancient Egyptians up to the 20th century medicinal pills were generally rounds and white. All over the counter medications were available is pasty pastel or ghostly white hues, and prescription medicines were simple colourless pills in transparent vials.Now, pills and even liquid medicines are available in a wide array of colours, so the question that rises is whether colour has any significance. Many might think colour only makes the pills attractive to the eyes, but it has several other reasons and has become necessary now.

These colours for pharmaceutical products are beneficial for both pharmaceutical companies as well as consumers.

• The primary function ofcolour is that it allows customers to recognize one pill from another and also between prescription/non-prescription drugs and other capsules or tablets. Elderly patients often get confused when all pills are of the same size, colour and shape. Also, the bright coloured medicines make individuals suffering for longer duration feel happier with the addition of colours to their life, even if the colourful objects are tablets. Therefore, colour combinations and colours appeal to emotions and also significantly lower the chances of medical errors.
• Another important fact is that patients often respond to the colour of the medication, as blue signifies deep sleep at night, while dynamic red is for speedy recovery from any ailment. Even though we do not eat pills, it is an old belief that humans eat with eyes as well as palates. This is the reason why butter has been yellow coloured ever since the 1300s. We swallow pills however; some of them leave behind their taste, which makes them difficult to swallow. Therefore, by associating it with colour, the process of associating it with a positive image becomes easier.

Other than these functional benefits for customers, colour is now being used for creating brand images instead of just simple white pills. Pharmaceutical companies are now conducting thorough research on colours and making pharmaceutical dyes accordingly as colour is now being considered a powerhouse. Colour now signifies the personality of the drug, and offers feedback not only about the how a customer might feel when consuming it, but also as a mark of the brand which is creating it. It also differentiates it from other brands therefore, displaying its benefits of belonging to a reputable brand.

Today, most consumers purchase over the counter drugs rather than prescription drugs, which is why most pharmaceutical colours manufacturers are making the drugs more and more colourful. As these colours appeal to customers and also assist in recognizing a particular brand which they trust.

In some cases the colour of the drug does not signify its effect, like Viagra, as it is blue in colour. Colour might not play a significant role in future as in case of individuals with lengthy durations of illness they might have micro-dispensers planted inside the body. Through this dispenser the quantity of drug present in one’s body will be tested and then the required quality will be released.

Use cosmetic lake colors to expand your product line

Today, we live in a world that mesmerizes our senses with the impressive effects of a wide colour spectrum. Among these are the cosmetics that promote ravishing lip shades and attractive eye shadows. Cosmetic colours are used to add those catchy colours in cosmetic products. These colours are made using dyes and pigments. Lake pigments are primarily used in cosmetics.

Why use Lake colors?

The Britannica encyclopaedia defines lake pigments as ‘any of a class of pigments composed of organic dyes that have been rendered insoluble by interaction with a compound of a metal.’ The purity of the dye content determines the hue and shade of the lake colour. Lake colours are widely used because they are insoluble in water.

Food, Pharma and Cosmetic industries use lake colours in their various products. Extensive choice of cosmetic colours is the reason behind the variety of cosmetic products in the market today. Leading manufacturers of lake colours in India follow global standards to create export-quality products. The characteristics of lake colours such as particle size, moisture content, oil adsorption, pH stability and gravity ensure the right level of consistency while creating batches of colours for use in products.

There are natural as well as synthetic lake colours. In cosmetic colours, aluminium lake colours are widely used. Aluminium lake colours are responsible for some of the stunning cosmetics in the market today. Brilliant blue lake, Amaranth lake, Sunset yellow lake, Indigo carmine lake, Quinoline yellow lake, Allura red lake, etc. are some commonly used aluminium lake colours. Calcium and Zirconium lakes can also be used in cosmetics.

Listed below are four popular uses of cosmetic lake colors:

1. Eye Makeup – Cosmetics lake colors for eyes are to be created strictly as per the guidelines of the relevant authorities and law of the country. Manufacturers have to give special attention to cosmetic colour ingredients for eyes as any lapse can lead to loss of eyesight.
2. Lip care – Lips just like eyes are sensitive and therefore, only the prescribed colours are to be used in lipsticks. Due to their insoluble nature, lake colours prevent bleeding of colours which helps in making the best lipsticks.
3. Nail care – Nail art is all about beautiful colours. For a consistent spread of colours, cosmetic lakes are used in the manufacture of colours for nail paint and nail lacquers.
4. Blush and Compact Powder – Cosmetic lake colors are used in a dry mix form to render bright and beautiful shades in blush and compact powder product lines.

To conclude, cosmetic lakes are chosen because of their physical characteristics of brightness and consistency. Reputed manufacturers who understand the legalities and have the expertise of utilising colour characteristics produce high-quality lake colours in India. We are experts in producing lake colours. We can guide you to choose the right palette of cosmetic lakes to expand your cosmetic products line.

Which colours would you like to use in your products? What are your concerns about cosmetic lakes?

How do colors transform Pharma Products?

Medicines have the power to cure ailments. But did you know that the colour of medicines play a transformational role in the effectiveness of the medicine.They expedite the time taken to cure the ailments. Research has proved that there is an impact of colourful medicines on the mind of the patients.

Once upon a time, medicines were available only in shades of white. With new technologies and scientific developments, colours such as pink, yellow, green, red, blue and more are made available by pharmaceutical colors manufacturers. Today, pharmaceutical colors share a colour palette of thousands of shades

“I have so many colourful tablets,” you must have heard someone under medication saying so in excitement. Colours for pharmaceutical products attract the feeling of excitement in an otherwise unpleasant experience of consuming a plain white tablet. For others, the coloured tablet may not be exciting but a medium to feel better.

Below are some of significant roles played by colours for pharmaceutical products.

Delivering a cure through colours

It goes without saying that colours used in consumable drugs are edible. Pharmaceutical colors manufacturers have to follow strict guidelines to ensure that colours are used as per the set international standards. Pharmaceutical dyes and pigments are used for adding colours to products based on the application requirements. Pharmaceutical colors manufacturers, therefore, invest a lot of time and money on research for finding the right colour and consistency of colours for drugs. Based on the analysis and testing performed by their research labs, the drugs are given the ideal quality, accuracy and intensity.

Distributing the right medicine

The functional value of colours helps in the distribution of drugs too. Light-sensitive products remain stable with the opacity of colour. Colour coding is utilized by pharmaceutical drug manufacturers. This prevents mixing of drugs during the production process and while packaging.Colours are perceived differently in countries across the world. A yellow may mean something in one country or something else in another. Religious beliefs or local cultural influence can change the way a person perceives colour. Therefore, colour/s of medicines are chosen based on the country where it will be distributes.

What you see is what you feel

Visuals appeal to human beings. And so does pharmaceutical colors. A red may invigorate or blue may calm a medicine user. Research has proved that colour has an impact on patients. The distinctive colour of medicine further benefits patients who consume a number of prescription drugs. Over time, the patient begins to identify the drug colour with a cure for the ailment. To further differentiate pharmaceutical drugs, the medicines are given distinct shapes and flavour coating.

Everyone, right from the workers at the manufacturer’s production line and healthcare workers to physicians and patients, benefit from the colour of medicines. Additionally, the aesthetic appeal of the drug colour helps branding and marketing teams to promote the drug. Learn more about pharmaceutical dyes and pigments. Explore the fascinating world of pharmaceutical colors.

What are Artificial Colors?

Artificial colors are widely used in different types of products and items available in the market today. Right from nail polish, medications, toothpaste, food products and almost every other item today consists of artificial colors. In fact, our clothes, shoes, bed linens and carpets also consist of artificial colors or cosmetic colors that make them look more attractive and appealing. Read on to find out more about artificial colors and their usage.

Artificial Colors Defined

Artificial colors are basically a combination of seven artificial dyes that have been approved by the food authorities. These colors include Blue 1, Green 3, Blue 2, Red 3, Red 40, Yellow 6 and Yellow 6. Thus, the manufacturers can use certain combination of colors for creating cosmetic pigments depending upon their choice and preference. The artificial colors are basically sourced from a combination of different food dyes.

Reasons for Avoiding Artificial Colors in Food

It is no hidden secret that artificial colors consist of different types of chemicals that are usually extracted from petroleum based products. Thus, they can cause numerous health problems such as allergy problems, cancer and other behavioral changes. Some of the common problems caused by artificial colors include ADHD, Confusion, Eczema, Frustration, Hyperactivity, Itchiness, Mood Swings and Sleep Disturbances and Violent outbursts among other health issues. As a result, a number of European food manufacturing companies are not using artificial or cosmetic colors in their products.

• Hyperactive Children: Artificial colors often make children more hyperactive and impact their learning ability negatively. According to the washingtonpost, artificial food colors can cause children with no behavioral issues inattentive and hyperactive.
• Do Not Add Any Value: Artificial colors do not add any value to our food items. The truth is that artificial colors are only used for making food and beverages attractive and appealing. Hence, the food and drug authorities are now banning the use of artificial colors in food products.However, they have permitted the use of cosmetic colors or artificial colors in production of cosmetic products. A growing number of cosmetic companies use cosmetic lakes, consisting of iron oxide, titanium dioxide and ultramarines, at the time of manufacturing their beauty products and items.
• Cause Obesity Problems: Another reason why artificial colors must not be included in food products is because they cause obesity problems. Both adults and children are easily attracted to junk food items simply because they are more colorful and appealing. This often causes obesity in them and many of them tend to gain unnecessary weight.

Given the above scenario, an increasing number of food products manufacturing companies are now replacing artificial colors with natural or organic colors. In fact, in the U.S. alone around 40 percent of food and beverage manufacturers have replaced artificial colors with natural colors. These natural colors are extracted from organic or natural sources and are undoubtedly good for health. Consumers must therefore go through the labels on their food packets and products and find out whether the ingredients and colors used for making them are natural or artificial.

5 Myths of Organic Colors

Organic colors are increasingly preferred by consumers in their food, cosmetics as well as beverages. In fact, a growing number of consumers want colors to have organic pigments derived from natural and quality sources. According to a recent study, around 66 percent of consumers demand organic colors instead of synthetic colors in their food, beverages and other products. Needless to mention, color is one of the main things that people use for recalling the quality and taste of their favorite food items. This is precisely why almost every company and brand is now using natural color pigments at the time of designing and creating of their products. However, there are several myths and misconceptions about organic colors. Here, find top 5 myths about organic colors.

• Myth One: The Shade Vibrancy must be Sacrificed: The truth is that based on the type of the application, one can achieve vivid and bright shades. A number of food items from Europe lack the vibrancy that is usually found in food products from North as well as South America. However, the fact is the food manufacturing companies in Europe started using colored natural pigments much before the companies in North or South America. Apart from this, Europe’s food manufacturing companies use coloring food that offers minimal vibrancy. On the other hand, consumers in North America always prefer using natural color obtained from natural sources.
• Myth Two: Shade Should Be Variable: It is not necessary for food manufacturing companies to maintain variability at the time of using organic colors. Companies that manufacture natural colors maintain the requisite standards, quality and consistency during the production of organic colors.
• Myth Three: Organic colors leave Behind Unwanted Off- Flavors: While, it is true that there are plenty of organic colors sources that leave off-flavors behind, however, with the advanced purification and filtration technologies available today, one can easily get rid of the undesirable flavors obtained via natural sources. Thus, organic color products and solutions can be easily customized to achieve the desired shade without leaving any undesired flavor behind.
• Myth Four: Organic Colors are Not Very Stable: This is a very common misconception among consumers. However, this isn’t really true. In a recent study conducted on panned chocolate, the organic color was much more stable in comparison to the synthetic color.
• Myth Five: Organic Colors Are Very Expensive: This is yet another common myth and one that certainly needs to be clarified. When it comes to buying any food item, consumers usually pay heed to both color and flavor. Thus, organic colors are not always expensive. In fact, synthetic colors are much more efficient.

To sum up, organic colors are absolutely safe and can be conveniently included in the different types of food products, beverages and other items. In fact, many consumers in North America are now demanding organic colors in their products. As a result, organic color manufacturing companies are now using technologies and tools to improve the quality, performance and cost of the organic colors.

How Are Pigment Colours Made?

Pigments are generally coloured, solid powders that are usually insoluble. All paints are made from the ingredient known as pigment. Pigments are not soluble and are not applied as solutions but as solid particles mixed with a liquid. Generally the same pigments are employed in water and oil based paints, printed inks and plastics. They were first extracted from clay or earth. Even though most of the pigment manufacturers use age old process of preparing pigments and then convert them into clay, modern pigments are synthesized in laboratories.

Cosmetic pigments are divided into inorganic pigments and organic pigments. Most of the inorganic pigments lasts longer and are brighter than the organic ones. Organic pigments have been used for centuries for various purposes. However, most of the pigments used today are either synthetic organic ones or inorganic. Synthetic organic pigments are manufactured from coal tars and other petrochemicals. Inorganic pigments are made with the help of simple chemical reactions such as oxidation. When in requirement of bright shades organic pigments are used and they have high colour strength. When manufacturing dull shades inorganic pigments are used. Inorganic pigments have weak colour strength.

Apart from other uses, pigments are also used in cosmetics. Both organic pigments, inorganic pigments are used in the manufacture of cosmetics. Organic pigments manufacturer makes lakes, inorganic pigment manufacturer makes iron oxides. Organic and inorganic colours are used by the cosmetic pigment manufacturer in their cosmetic manufacturing. Both iron oxide and lakes are non toxic in nature and don’t create any reaction on the skin. Most of the cosmetic manufacturer uses these in their makeup since there is no chance of skin allergies.

Iron oxides come in a range of colours such as black iron oxide, yellow iron oxide and so on. The colour tone depends on factors such s pH, temperature, concentration and so on. Lakes are produced by soluble dye with metallic salts. While organic colours are certified, Iron oxides are none certifies but are widely used in makeup products such as foundations, lipsticks, eye shadows etc.

Inorganic pigments include white opaque pigments that are used to lighten other colours and also to provide opacity. The most significant member of the class is titanium dioxide. White extender pigments are added to the paints so as to improve their properties as well as lower their cost. This class includes calcium sulfate, calcium carbonate, china clays and diatomaceous silica. Black pigments are mostly created from particles of carbon. Iron oxide earth pigments create yellow-browns, browns and orange-browns. Certain compounds of chromium create oranges, chrome yellows and greens. Various compounds of cadmium results in oranges, bright yellows and reds.

Organic pigments are synthesized from aromatic hydrocarbons. Organic pigments include azo pigments. They account for most of the organic orange, red and yellow pigments. Copper phthalocyanines provide strong greens and blues. Some pigments like fluorescent ones are dyes that have been rendered insoluble by chemical reaction. In terms of usage both lakes and oxides are good option as they don’t have any side effects. Bothe organic and inorganic pigments can be used irrespective of age or skin types. With regard to cosmetic paints, lakes and oxides are better than industrial paints or ink

5 Things to Know Before Choosing Cosmetic Dyes

Cosmetic colours are widely used to create variety of cosmetics ranging from eye colour, lipsticks, nail elements and much more. They do not pose any harmful effects on the skin and does not result in skin allergies. Cosmetic manufacturers use synthetic as well as organic colours based on customers’ requirements. In the production of such cosmetic colours, cosmetic pigments and cosmetic dyes are used. However, such manufacturers adhere to the rules and regulations strictly while producing cosmetic dyes in India. With each passing day, the cosmetic manufacturers are adding more colour to the cosmetics and customers are looking for buying such products and increase their cosmetic collection.

There are certain things that should be taken into account while choosing cosmetic dyes in India. Some of the factors that are taken into account have been discussed below:

• Organic pigments for personal care and cosmetics:Carbons and other molecules are used to make organic pigments. Usually organic pigments used for personal care and cosmetics are cosmetic colours that are classified as toners, lake dyes and true pigments. The pigments that are used are certified and are of high quality so that there is no reaction the skin. Usually organic pigment colours are much brighter than inorganic pigments.
• Inorganic pigments for cosmetics and personal care:Chromium, ultramarine, iron oxides and so on are very popular among cosmetic manufacturers. These are inorganic pigments that are largely used in cosmetic manufacturing along with other pigments such as titanium dioxide and zinc oxide. Such pigments are more opaque and resistant to solvents.
• Oil soluble colours for personal care and cosmetics:Cosmetic dyes are also available in oil soluble colours for personal care and cosmetics. Depending upon the formulation of the product there are various application for oil soluble cosmetic colours. Some of the oil soluble cosmetic colours include ultramarines and oxides.
• Water soluble colours for personal care and cosmetics:Cosmetic dyes are available in water soluble colours. Such water soluble colours are of high quality and is ideal for personal care products as well as cosmetics. In case of clear products water soluble cosmetic colours give good transparent colours. In case of opaque cosmetic products water soluble cosmetic colours are used to give them a light tint. These are also perfect for soaps, lotion, powders etc.
• Colour solution and colour mud for nail care and lip care respectively:Nail paints and cosmetics for lip care are in high demand and fall under the highest selling categories in cosmetics. Cosmetic colours such as Titanium Dioxide, Mica, iron oxides and organic pigments are used in nail paints. For making nail paints pigments are used. To produce high quality nail care products, the colours need good solubility properties.

In case of cosmetic colours for lip care it is available in the form of inorganic and organic pigments. Since high quality colours are used application of such cosmetics on sensitive skin does not result in any side effects. Colour mud is available in wide range of colours such as green, yellow, purple and more.

Significance of Color Quality of Pharmaceuticals & Food Products

Color is one of the primary things through which you remember the taste and quality of the food. Not just appearance, color also signifies the quality of the food and the ingredients used in it. For the pharmaceutical and food manufacturers, you need to know that in order to make the food appealing you must use the right colors. Apart from this, to maintain the psychological reason you must understand the relation between food colors and the client’s taste. To help you understand this better and to make this simpler, the food color measurement equipment's come to the rescue. If you want to know more about the significance of color quality of pharmaceuticals and food products read out here:

Role of color quality
Each color has its own importance and role play in food. For instance, colors such as yellow and red appeal a lot of people and compel them to grab the food. This is because both these colors are associated with hunger and provokes it. If you have seen carefully, most food chains or outlets use these two colors or either one of these in their logos to draw your attention. As such the pharmaceutical colors manufacturers make colors, keeping many things in their minds. However, if the color manufactured is meant for food coloring, then several things are strictly taken into consideration. When you measure the color quality as well as the food significance it gives you the batch concentration. This helps you maintain the best quality of the color to be used. Now, when you are able to verify the batch concentration, the rejection level also drops down. This in return helps you avoid rejection of a large quantity of product and save money. Next, when it comes to the pharmaceutical ones, the safety and quality of the colors become a primary concern. Some factors include color temperature like warm colors, neutral colors and many more.

The effect on pharmaceutical and food products
When it comes to pharmaceutical packaging, color choice is based on visual appearance. Just like the color of a medication is believed to have an impact on the consumer’s mind, similarly the pharmaceutical dyes used in packaging it has an effect that shapes the consumer’s expectations. There is no doubt, this is one of the reasons as why most companies use eye catching colors in their food products and pharmaceutical products. Packaging colors such as brown, red and gray are used to mark serious illness medicines.

How does it help?
The food color is one of the most important factors in determining the acceptance. Usually every person wants to see their food in natural color. There are many people who associate natural color with high quality pharmaceuticals and food products. The quality of pharmaceutical colors is also important for the manufacturers as it matters to the customers a lot.

Importance of color quality
Be it food products or pharmaceutical product color quality is always one of the primary concerns of the manufacturers and the consumers as well. These products also have a significant effect on the people’s health. For instance, a quality color can have a calming effect on your mind while others might not. Above all, no matter what color the manufacturers choose, it all depends on the consumer how they take it and what impact it has on them.

How to measure consistency?
As earlier said, to have a proper impact on the customers, it is important to have a proper level of intensity of these pharmaceutical colors. Accurate measurement of these colors not only help you enhance the look of the product, but also help you identify the quality and quantity of the ingredients used. When it comes to measuring the pharmaceutical dyes and its consistency, the manufacturers use pharmaceutical measurement devices to get the accurate result. These devices help you analyze the color consistency of the product which again help in verifying batch consistency of product. Coming to color measurement, there is a significant device available for use which is known as the color measurement instrument. Almost all of these color measurement devices are portable and gives the most accurate result possible. Due to this reason, many leading industries use the device to check color quantity and quality used in their products.

With that being said, there are several factors that contribute to the importance of color quality in both food products and pharmaceutical products. The importance of color quality of pharmaceuticals are many and hard to ignore when it comes to the quality of the food.

Organic Pigments vs Inorganic Pigments for Cosmetic Makeup

Cosmetics are both loved by men and women these days. But often people have a confusion between organic and inorganic pigments that are used in makeup items. However, there are only two types of pigments such as the iron oxides which are inorganic and the lakes which are organic. Interestingly, the cosmetic pigment manufacturer uses both inorganic and organic colors in their pigments. If you want to more about these two types of pigments go through this page and get enlightened:

Why use the pigments?

There are several reasons for using the cosmetic pigments in makeups. For instance, iron oxides are used since it is the most common and stable form of elements. Also, these are non toxic and available in different colors for use. Coming to organic ones, these are similar to the inorganic ones as they don’t react on the skin. In fact, most cosmetic manufacturers use these straight away in their makeup since there are no chances of skin allergies.

Color ingredients

Coming to the color ingredients, iron oxides are available in a range of various colors such as yellow iron oxide, black iron oxide and many more. The color tone also depends on several factors such as the temperature, pH, radius, concentration,etc. In case of lakes, these are produced by soluble dye with metallic salts. These are known as the metal salts and these are certified colors. Organic colors are also certified and safe to use.

Iron oxides are non certified colors and are widely used in coverup makeup products.Presently, iron oxides are being used in makeup items such as lipsticks, foundations, eye shadows, etc. Interestingly, various skin colors are being produced using the iron oxides under different conditions.

Product viscosity

This depends entirely on the technician and they choose the viscosity according to their need. For instance, when it comes to cosmetic pigments there is the oil painting makeup as well the sumi painting makeup. The former involves a permanent makeup style, whereas the latter is given to those who aren’t sure if they want a permanent makeup.

Which is a better option?

In terms of use both oxides and lakes are a good option. Both of these don’t have any side effects or cause skin allergies, so are safe to be used on your skin. In fact, both organic and inorganic pigments are a good choice, irrespective of your age since it suits all skin types. Also, when it comes to cosmetic pigments oxides and lakes are better than inks or industrial paints. Even though oxides fade over time, but it doesn’t make you look old as in the case of ink.

With that being said, both the pigments are equally popular and widely used in cosmetic makeup. One of the primary reasons for this is because they are safe on your skin. So, now as you know all the details about these pigments used in cosmetic makeup choose your preferable one and give yourself the desirable look.

Why pharmaceutical colours are so important?

Every colour has an influence on the human mind. No wonder, colour science remains significant in the consumption behaviour of medicines by patients. Colour is not merely selected by pharma companies but it is carefully chosen after extensive research. Pharmaceutical colors manufacturers follow certain standards to create the suitable colours for various medicines because colour properties can expedite the wellness of patients and provide other benefits.

Colour – The Healer

Every colour signifies something. If blue is for calmness then red is for vitality. The colour itself starts the healing process even before the medicine is consumed. Colour enhances the effect of medicine on different illnesses.

Identify better with colour

Apart from the visual appeal, colours are used in medicine to differentiate them and thus, avoid confusion. Elderly patients will find it easier to find the right medicine based on colour codes. Pharmaceutical Colour Measurement devices help to select the right consistency and attain accuracy in colours. The exact proportion of colour should be used as per the guidelines of regulatory authorities for appropriate usage of colours in pharma products.

Follow standards for wellness

Pharmaceutical colours can be used in internal medicines such as tablets; capsules etc. or for external applications such as ointments, gel etc. These colours have to be prepared as per the methods and tests put forward by governing authorities. Any kind of lapse on following the guidelines can lead to low quality of products and sometimes lead to permanent problems for patients that can even prove fatal.

Better sales with colours

On the business side, colours affect sales figures too. For example, a tablet in yellow colour of a specific shape can be related to a brand which the patients can easily connect to. On the other hand, a white tablet in a commonly available shape gets lost among many other similar looking tablets in the market. The colour of the medicine gives it a distinct identity.

Certain colours such as natural colours are exempt from certification while other chemical-based colours need to be certified by pharmaceutical color manufacturers. Metal oxides, aluminium lakes and non-synthetics are pigments used in colours for pharmaceutical products. Water soluble colours are used in medicines for dispersion properties that help consume the medicine. Pharma colourants such as organic, inorganic or water-soluble are selected based on their properties.

Control of batch to batch colour variation is of utmost importance for pharmaceutical colors manufacturers. Any variation can lead to quality concerns in colour coating. Manufacturing of these colours depend on the uncompromising quality standards set by the governing authorities and varies from country to country.

Koel colour is a leading manufacturer of colours for pharmaceutical products. The company is a specialist in organic colourants, inorganic colourants and water-soluble colours for pharma. The high-quality and well-researched pharmaceutical colours including pharmaceutical dyes by Koel colours are widely used by leading pharma companies with stringent policies.

What’s your take on significance of colours? Any insights on pharmaceutical colours that you find fascinating?

What is the Difference? – Pigments vs Dyes

Ever wondered about the type of colours used in cosmetics. Based on the applications, cosmetic colours also known as colourant are classified into two types, dyes and pigments. Understanding the difference between cosmetic dyes and cosmetic pigments helps to choose the appropriate colourant for cosmetic manufacturers.

How different is the colouring process for cosmetic dyes and cosmetic pigments?

• The process of dyeing involves physical and chemical reactions. Pigments are colour particles that require a binding or dispersion agent to bind to the surface of the material to be coloured.
• Dyes have molecules that are smaller than pigment particles.
• Dyes are soluble in water and in certain types of solvents such as oil, alcohol, glycerine etc. Pigments are insoluble in water and many other solvents.
• Molecular study is required in choosing the dyes while it is not required in pigments. Crystal structure, particle properties, surface area & absorption, binder type and application are considered in the selection process of a pigment. Quantity of pigment to be used also makes a difference for products.

Key facts about Dyes

• Dyes can be organic or synthetic dyes. Organic dyes are obtained from natural resources.
• Brighter colours can be obtained through dyes.
• Dyes showcase poor fastness to light.
• Special-purpose Dyes can have properties such as heat-resistance, UV resistance, weather resistance etc.

Key facts about Cosmetic Pigments

• Cosmetic pigments are further divided into organic pigments and inorganic pigments. Organic pigments are of three types namely- Lakes, toners and true pigments. Inorganic pigments are made of different chemical types such as chromium dioxides, iron oxides, ultramarines etc.
• Organic pigments have high color strength while inorganic ones have weak colour strength.
• Bright shades can be obtained through organic pigments compared to dull shades by inorganic pigments.

Dyes are generally used for making hair dyes, lipsticks etc. Pigments such as oxides and more are used for giving vibrant shades to nail paints, blushes, face powders etc. In certain cases, it is possible to combine pigments and dyes for specific applications. Specific dyes and pigments are approved or restricted for use in cosmetics for application in certain body areas or cosmetic types. Dyes and Pigment manufacturers conduct tests and follow international standards with the prescribed amount of ingredients to ensure safe application of the colourants.

Natural colours derived from natural sources do not need to be certified in most places across the world. Synthetic organic colours have to be certified though. Reputed dyes and pigment manufacturers are aware of these certifications and laws for cosmetic colours that prevail in different parts of the world.

Koel Colours is a leading manufacturer of cosmetic colourants including cosmetic dyes, organic pigments and inorganic pigments. Since every cosmetic needs a specific colourant, Koel colours can lend their expertise to clients for choosing the compatible colours as per their needs.

Cosmetics are chosen based on colours most of the time. Any suggestions on selection of colours for cosmetics? Which cosmetic colour works well for you and why?

What is the Difference? – Pigments vs Dyes

Ever wondered about the type of colours used in cosmetics. Based on the applications, cosmetic colours also known as colourant are classified into two types, dyes and pigments. Understanding the difference between cosmetic dyes and cosmetic pigments helps to choose the appropriate colourant for cosmetic manufacturers.

How different is the colouring process for cosmetic dyes and cosmetic pigments?

• The process of dyeing involves physical and chemical reactions. Pigments are colour particles that require a binding or dispersion agent to bind to the surface of the material to be coloured.
• Dyes have molecules that are smaller than pigment particles.
• Dyes are soluble in water and in certain types of solvents such as oil, alcohol, glycerine etc. Pigments are insoluble in water and many other solvents.
• Molecular study is required in choosing the dyes while it is not required in pigments. Crystal structure, particle properties, surface area & absorption, binder type and application are considered in the selection process of a pigment. Quantity of pigment to be used also makes a difference for products.

Key facts about Dyes

• Dyes can be organic or synthetic dyes. Organic dyes are obtained from natural resources.
• Brighter colours can be obtained through dyes.
• Dyes showcase poor fastness to light.
• Special-purpose Dyes can have properties such as heat-resistance, UV resistance, weather resistance etc.

Key facts about Cosmetic Pigments

• Cosmetic pigments are further divided into organic pigments and inorganic pigments. Organic pigments are of three types namely- Lakes, toners and true pigments. Inorganic pigments are made of different chemical types such as chromium dioxides, iron oxides, ultramarines etc.
• Organic pigments have high color strength while inorganic ones have weak colour strength.
• Bright shades can be obtained through organic pigments compared to dull shades by inorganic pigments.

Dyes are generally used for making hair dyes, lipsticks etc. Pigments such as oxides and more are used for giving vibrant shades to nail paints, blushes, face powders etc. In certain cases, it is possible to combine pigments and dyes for specific applications. Specific dyes and pigments are approved or restricted for use in cosmetics for application in certain body areas or cosmetic types. Dyes and Pigment manufacturers conduct tests and follow international standards with the prescribed amount of ingredients to ensure safe application of the colourants.

Natural colours derived from natural sources do not need to be certified in most places across the world. Synthetic organic colours have to be certified though. Reputed dyes and pigment manufacturers are aware of these certifications and laws for cosmetic colours that prevail in different parts of the world.

Koel Colours is a leading manufacturer of cosmetic colourants including cosmetic dyes, organic pigments and inorganic pigments. Since every cosmetic needs a specific colourant, Koel colours can lend their expertise to clients for choosing the compatible colours as per their needs.

Cosmetics are chosen based on colours most of the time. Any suggestions on selection of colours for cosmetics? Which cosmetic colour works well for you and why?

Why use colours for pharmaceutical products?

Ever thought about pharmaceutical colours? Colours can be used in pharma for various reasons. Did you know, there is a variation in acceptance of pharma colours in different countries. Some of the widely used colours in pharma are white, blue, red, yellow, green and brown. Pharmaceutical colors manufacturers use colours made of natural or synthetic substances to achieve the right formulation.

Colours for pharmaceutical products are used to impart organoleptic properties or for technical purposes. Organoleptic properties are aspects of food or other substances that make it more appealing to the senses of consumers such as sight, smell, taste and touch. Colours are combined with flavours such as strawberry, mint etc. and matched with the formulation of the drugs to be created. Colour Measurement and control is necessary for achieving the consistency in application of pharmaceutical dyes.

Why colour is important in pharma?

• Therapeutic objectives can be easily achieved with the help of pharmaceutical colours. After all, colourful medicines are more comforting to patients, mainly children.
• Colour, shape and size of a drug eliminates the risk of counterfeiting.
• Colour coated drugs in various shapes and sizes help to differentiate the medicines, making it easier for end use and avoiding confusion.
• These days, colourful medicines help in advertising the product too.

Types of colours for pharmaceutical products

Dyes and pigments are two types of colorants used in various industries such as food, pharma etc. Pigments used in the pharmaceutical industry are oxides, lakes and non-synthetics.

Titanium and Iron Oxides

These pigments have wide acceptability, good chemical and light stability along with excellent opacity. But oxides have a limited colour range and mainly feature dull colours.

Aluminium Lake Colours

Lake colours are created using straight dyes with precipitants and salts through reactions. Usually, the blue-coloured aluminium lake colours are used as additives to coat tablets in the pharma industry due to their stability.  Lake colours are insoluble in water and therefore, are used in prescribed quantities to protect the contents of the pill from getting affected.

Aluminium lake colours have a wide range of bright colours and retain the brightness when mixed together with other substances. It has low opacity compared to other pigments and certain particle properties may affect its stability.

Non-synthetic colours

Non-synthetic colours have high acceptability but may not be feasible due to high cost. Also, the range of colours and poor properties in certain instances can be a disadvantage for these colour pigments.

Synthetic Pharmaceutical dyes are used as per the prescribed norms of the relevant authorities of the country where the product is to be consumed.  Strict compliance to the regulations is required by pharmaceutical colors manufacturers to ensure that the colours are safe for end use. Every country has a set of certified colours and detailed technical information that are followed only by reputed pharmaceutical colors manufacturers.

So, what your opinion about colour-coated pharma products like medicinal pills? Would you prefer Aluminium Lakes for brighter colours?

Explore more shades with Cosmetic Colours today!

Cherry Red or Pretty Purple, with more colours, the excited consumers get more product variants and the manufacturer earns more profits. Colours play a very important role in the cosmetics industry. A lot of effort goes into finalizing the right colours for the right product in the cosmetic industry.

Although, the cosmetics industry is perceived as glamourous, it is a very serious business. Manufacturers and users of cosmetic colours in India have to stricty follow certain stringent regulations and adhere to the BIS quality standards. This inturn, ensures a safe product for consumers too.

Types of cosmetic colours

Cosmetic colours or colour additives can be classified into two categories: Cosmetic Dyes and Cosmetic Pigments.

Pigments can be inorganic pigments or organic pigments. Inorganic pigments consist of iron oxides, chromium dioxides, ultramarines, pealescent pearls etc. Organic pigments consist of cosmetic lakes, toners or true pigments.

Lakes are pigments used in cosmetics for their suitable chemical properties and colour characteristics. Cosmetic Lakes are created by absorbing the dye on a substrate and the dye turns into a water-insoluble colour by adapting the property of the substrate.

Dyes Vs Pigments

Cosmetic pigments are insoluble in most liquids including water while cosmetic dyes are water-soluble and soluble in many solvents. Cosmetic dyes are used mainly to create natural colours because dyes are made of organic compounds. On the other hand, pigments are generally made of inorganic compounds, sometimes with highly toxic contents. Dyes are combustible in nature while pigments are non-combustible in nature. In terms of shelf-life, pigments last longer than dyes.

Selecting the right colours

Colour selection for cosmetics depends on various factors as given below:

• Be it natural light or sunlight, the source of light where the colour will be viewed makes a lot of difference in the way it will be seen.
• Certain ingredients are restricted in specific type of cosmetics such as eye pencil, lipstick etc.
• Who sees it or what medium views the final colour can also give different results as the colour is perceived differently by human eyes and by an external object such as a camera or others.
• Accuracy in shade values ensures consistency in cosmetic colours.

Regulations for using cosmetic colours

Appropriate care is to be taken while preparing the colours for cosmetics. Any small error in mixing the ingredients or inclusion of incorrect amount of toxic substances can lead to undesirable consequences and even stringent legal actions. Manufacturers of natural cosmetic dyes in India face lesser challenges compared to ones making synthetic pigment colours.

The business of cosmetic dyes in India is growing as always with great demand for natural colours. Certified colour providers do the necessary testing and follow industry standards to meet the demands of the cosmetic colour requirements of personal care product manufacturers.

So, add more glamour to the cosmetics industry with vibrant cosmetic colours.

Do you have any interesting new shades in mind? What kind of cosmetic colours would you prefer?