Difference between Organic Pigments and Inorganic Pigments

Colours play a significant role in our lives. Organic pigments and inorganic pigments are colorants extremely important for cosmetic manufacturers. India is a leading producer of pigment colours for cosmetics. These colours are supplied by pigment manufacturers in India to the domestic markets as well as imported to international markets.

Let’s take a look at the key differences between organic pigments and inorganic pigments.

Composition of pigments

Pigments colours can be used to give colour to other objects by coating them or blending them with the product ingredients. Organic and inorganic pigments are types of pigments based on their method of formulation. Organic pigments are generally derived from plants. Inorganic pigments use chemical formulations to get the desired product properties for various applications.

Compounds obtained from inorganic metallic compounds and salts such as chromates, metallic oxides, sulphates etc. are used in inorganic pigments. Organic pigments are made up of carbon rings and carbon chains. Chemical compounds can be used during colour production to stabilise the organic pigments. Inorganic compounds primarily use chemical compounds based on a specific chemical composition to create colours.

Based on the properties, the following characteristics make organic pigments different from inorganic pigments:

• Particle Size

Organic pigments have smaller particle size compared to inorganic pigment colours.

• Brightness

Organic pigments are brighter compared to inorganic pigments. But for long-lasting products, inorganic pigments are preferred because fading and exposure to sunlight or chemicals can take away the bright colour of organic pigments.

• Colours

The variety of colours available in inorganic pigments is greater than the variety available in organic pigment colours. Titanium dioxide; Iron oxide, etc. are examples of inorganic pigments. Lake colours are examples of organic pigments.

Ultramarine Blue, Iron Oxide Yellow, Chromium Oxide Green, Manganese Violet, Titanium Dioxide etc. are the colours available in inorganic pigments. India also exports the blended inorganic colourants such as Iron Oxide Burgundy, Iron Oxide Sienna, Iron Oxide Amber etc. Inorganic pigments also comes in Lo Micron Iron Oxide variants such as red, yellow and black.

Organic Pigment colours consist of lake colours such as Lake of Allura Red, Lake Patent Blue, Lake of Indigo Carmine etc. Since organic pigments are derived from minerals, the colours can also be classified on the basis of mineral lakes such as Aluminium (Al) Lakes, Calcium (Ca) Lakes, Barium (Ba) Lakes, and so on.

• Cost

Inorganic pigment colours are more economical and cost-effective than organic colorants.

• Dispersion

Compared to organic pigments, inorganic pigments are easier to disperse and therefore used for various applications. Particle size and surface chemistries of the compounds used for making pigments are different. Stabilization of the particles poses a challenge in the pigment dispersion process. Incorrect processes can lead to improper dispersion.

The dispersion process affects the economics and quality of the finished pigment colours. So, pigments needing minimum dispersion are frequently chosen to boost the output quantities in manufacturing units.

As per a recent market research report by Technavio, the inorganic pigments industry will progress at a CAGR of 4% by the year 2021. High stability of inorganic pigment colours and high particle dispersion makes it a popular choice for the manufacture of cosmetics and pharma products. Industry researchers feel that the dispersion benefits of the inorganic pigment will push the industry growth and development of the worldwide inorganic pigment market in the coming years.

Pigment colours for Cosmetics and Personal Care Products

When it comes to pigment colours, leading pigment manufacturers in India have to follow certain standards and guidelines. For each market, the common industry best practices may be similar but the regulatory guidelines for specific colours that have be followed, varies from one country to another.

Also, there are stringent regulations for different types of pigments. India is home to some of the leading pigment suppliers for cosmetic and personal care products. Depending on the product composition, pigment colours are used for making products such as soaps, face wash, creams etc.

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Variety of Pigments Colours

A wide range of inorganic colour pigments consisting of Inorganic Colourants, Blended Inorganic and Lo Micron colours, are formulated for colour cosmetic product manufacturers. India exports these pigments as well as caters to the pigment needs of locally produced cosmetic products with the help of reputed cosmetic color companies.

On the basis of regulatory requirements, organic colour pigments are classified as D&C Lake Colours (Drug and Cosmetics Lake Colours), FD&C Lake Colours (Food Drug and Cosmetics Lake Colours), Non D&C and FD&C Pigments, and EEC Lake Colours.

FD&C colour guidelines are followed by pigment manufacturers in India to create cosmetics colour solutions for the US market. EEC Lake colours are prepared in accordance with the directive by the European Economic Community (EEC) for pigment colours used in cosmetics for the European markets.

Popular Inorganic Pigments

• Titanium Dioxide or Zinc Oxide is used for manufacturing white colour cosmetic products such as nail colours, lip balms, etc. Titanium dioxide is a key ingredient in most of the sunscreen cream formulations.
• To add dark blue colouring to cosmetics, Iron Blue or Ferric Ferrocyanide is used.
• Mica is used mainly in powder-based cosmetics such as makeup foundation, blush powder etc.
• Iron oxide is added to achieve red, yellow and black colours for cosmetics.
• Chromium dioxide is widely used for making green-coloured cosmetics.
• Ultramarines lend brighter cosmetic colours such as bright violet, bright blue, green and pink.
• Manganese Violet is utilised in cosmetics such as nail paints, hair colours, lip sticks etc. and a number of personal care products such as skin creams, shower gels etc.

Other pigment colours

Blended Inorganic pigments are used for creating Amber, Sienna, Tan and Burgundy shades. Organic pigments are generally available in the form of colour lakes made using minerals such as calcium, barium, etc. Red, Yellow, Orange, Blue and a number of other shades can be developed using organic pigments.

Why are ingredients important for cosmetics colour composition?

To create the vibrant colours, pigment colours are made using chromium dioxide, iron oxides, ultramarines, and so on. But as per region-specific laws and regulations, use of some of the pigments is restricted or limited for manufacturing of certain products in specific nations.

For every colour that is manufactured, extensive research is required with rigorous testing procedures. Also, additional certifications may be required for conforming to regulatory standards. These regulations are in place to ensure safer use of colours for its various applications.

Bright and luscious cosmetics receive their colours and sometimes, even functional attributes with pigment colours. But pigment manufacturers in India have to pay attention to the quality control, regulatory guidelines and other specifications which varies from client to client.

Finally, with great quality pigment colourants, product manufacturers are able to deliver great cosmetics and personal care products to users.

Top Trends in the Global Pigments Market for 2018

The pigments market is poised for continued growth and advancement globally in 2018. According to a report released by Ceresana, a leading market consultancy and research firm, the global market for pigments would generate approximately $34.2 billion in 2020. The report further indicated that the inorganic and organic pigments markets will witness massive growth, since they’re majorly linked to the construction industry’s growth and success. Thus, it goes without saying that the pigments market will continue to grow and expand in the years to come. Here, discover the top trends for global pigments market in 2018.

Trends to Watch Out for in 2018

Pigment manufacturers can look forward to sustained growth and development in the global pigments market in 2018. According to market experts, the manufacturers of pigments India-wide will witness an increased demand for biopigments, sustainable paints as well as pigments colours that offer functional advantages.

Increased Demand for Biopigments: Pigment manufacturers will witness a surge in demand for organic or biopigments in 2018. Both, cosmetic manufactures India-wide as well as consumers who’re deeply concerned about their safety and health will look forward to invest in organic pigments in 2018, despite its high price. The inorganic pigment colours contain chromium, lead as well as cadmium and are excellent for users who’re searching for colorfast pigments. However, they affect the environment negatively. As a result an increased number of manufacturers are focusing on manufacturing biopigments to minimize the emission of Volatile Organic Compounds. In fact, experts suggest that the manufacturers are consciously using bio based substances to protect themselves against the volatile prices of oil as well as to minimize carbon emission.

Growth of Sustainable and Premium Quality Paints: Coatings and paints require pigments in large quantities, as it further imparts them with the desired level of finish and color. Additionally, pigments also enable paints as well as coats to safeguard different surfaces against harmful weather and corrosion. As a result, pigment manufacturers are witnessing the growth of sustainable and premium quality paints. Consumers are increasingly searching for industrial quality paints with reduced level of lead components and compounds. In fact, there’s any increased demand for coatings and paints with low Volatile Organic Compounds since hydrocarbons cause massive environment pollution. A good number of manufacturers are now emphasizing on meeting the compliance and regulatory standards for producing sustainable paints with ecological and appropriate labels. This is further helping consumers in making an informed choice. This trend will continue in 2018 as well, as more and more consumers will look forward to using high quality, affordable and sustainable paints to meet their requirements.

Demand for Pigment Colours with Functional Advantages: There’s a surge in demand for inorganic pigment colours for enhancing the aesthetics as well as the functional value of paints and plastic-based products. Such pigment colours help in safeguarding against dampness, fungi, harsh weather conditions, corrosion as well as other harmful effects on the walls of a building. This is precisely why pigment manufacturing companies are witnessing an increase in demand for pigment colours that offer functional advantages.

What is an Inorganic Pigment? Advantages of Inorganic Pigments

When it comes to coloring compounds, there are two types of pigments that are normally used; organic and inorganic pigments. But, the question is, which one is better? Well, if you have to judge by coloring compounds, then inorganic pigments are way ahead of others. The main reason why inorganic pigments are so much in demand is because they are made from sulphides and oxides and also have essential mineral compounds. All these help in keeping the color stability perfect in every stage. So, if you have to choose from a range of pigment colors, try to pick from the inorganic section. This will have a better effect overall. Apart from the composition of the color, there are various other advantages of using inorganic pigments. Given below are some of them:

• More durable – one of the biggest drawbacks of pigmented colors is their inability to hold the color for a long time. However inorganic pigments are well known for their color stability. If you see the pigments for cosmetics, you will understand how durable the pigments can be. Most of the pigment manufacturers in India will agree to the fact that there is nothing better than inorganic pigments when it comes to durability.
• Ability to withstand external elements – a crucial deciding factor of any pigment is their ability to withstand chemical and sunlight exposure. On using inorganic pigments, you can be rest assured that they will withstand both sunlight and chemical exposure without a second thought. The presence of mineral compounds make the pigments anti to sunlight and chemicals.
• No abrasion – there is a tendency for pigmented colors to be less rigid to molecules and more prone to abrasion. However, this is where inorganic pigments are different. Their unique abrasion resistance capability make them highly demandable in the market. In addition to being abrasion resistant, inorganic pigments are also known to increase the rigidity of the molecules and rash inhibition. Since they can increase the molecule rigidity, they automatically become opaque. This helps in preventing light from entering the object. There are very few pigments that are able to prevent light because their ability to make the molecules rigid is quite low. The most that can happen with other pigments is they will make the object translucent, but not more than that.
• Much cheaper compared to other pigments – if you check the prices of pigments from color manufacturers, you will notice that inorganic pigments are way cheaper than other pigments. Although, inorganic pigments have uncountable benefits and are used in almost every other industry, their price is definitely something noteworthy. When compared to organic pigments, the inorganic ones take less time to manufacture and their overall cost is also quite low. A reason why they are so pocket-friendly is because they are obtained from natural sources of minerals. There are times when the minerals are manufactured synthetically as well, but their low cost is mainly due to the naturally obtained minerals. This ultimately brings down the final cost of the product that is being made.

What is Difference Between Lake Colours & Pigments?

A wide variety of colorants are used for manufacturing cosmetics, drugs, foods and other products. As a result pigment manufacturers in India are emphasizing on producing high quality pigment and lake colours to meet the ever growing demands of the food, pharmaceutical, clothing, plastic, cosmetic and other industries. Read on to find out some of the prominent differences between lake colours and pigments.

Lake Colours Defined

A lake color or lake pigment is basically insoluble in nature and colors through dispersion. Lakes are produced through precipitation of soluble dyes with some metallic salt. Thus, lake colors are manufactured with the help of FD&C dyes and can thus be easily mixed with fats, sugars and oils. Lake colours are also used for dispersing in glycerin, sucrose and propylene glycol. Today, an increasing number of companies use aluminum lake colours, which is essentially a blue colored additive used for coating drugs, foods, eye makeup items and products in blue colour. Aluminum lake colours are extensively used for coating cosmetics and tablets, as they’re very stable by nature. Lake colours are available in powder and liquid forms and are used for coloring edible items and products such as lipsticks, lips balms, cupcakes, chocolates, frosting.

Advantages of Lake Colors

• Lake colors are stable and do not bleed easily, especially when compared to the dye colours the easily dissolve in water.
• Lakes are extremely versatile and adapt easily.
• They are used for coloring a wide variety of items and products including pharmaceutical and cosmetic products.
• They can be easily combined and mixed with fats, vegetable oils, cosmetic oils and other products.
• Lake colours can be found in different colour concentrations.

Pigments

Pigments, on the other hand are essentially those substances that are used for coloring different types of materials including bath and body products. Pigment colours are usually Ultra-Violet stable and aren’t soluble. They can further be classified as organic and inorganic pigment colours. In fact, soap pigments are basically oxides and were once extracted naturally for safety and consistency but are now being synthetically replicated in the labs, after the FDA’s enforcement. The FDA found that most of the pigments that were gathered naturally consisted of toxic or harmful materials and were extremely unsafe. Pigments are widely used for manufacturing soaps and are also inexpensive as well as available in a wide range of colours. They are ideal for coloring melt and pour soaps, cold processed soaps and hot processed soaps. In fact, pigment colours are also used for producing bathing crystals, liquid soaps and bath fizzies.

Benefits of Pigment Colours

• Pigment colours are used for producing a wide varitey of textiles, fashion products and other special or specific applications.
• Pigment colours when used for dyeing are extremely cheap and inexpensive.
• Pigment colours when synthetically produced are not only environment friendly 1`but also safe, less toxic and cause minimal pollution.
• Pigments are better in comparison to dyes as they can easily retain colour for several years and are also capable of withstanding intense heat, light and different weather conditions.

Heavy Metals & Its Growing Significance in Cosmetic Industry

The need for women to appear beautiful and desirable is universal and it has been the case since dawn of civilization. However, it is just not enough to buy and use various skincare and cosmetics products for that need. It is equally important for users of color cosmetics products to ensure stuffs they are using are made with skin friendly and safe ingredients. Along with companies making such grooming and skincare products, the buyers also need to be aware of importance of using skin friendly ingredient based products. This is applicable for literally any colors cosmetics stuffs that you use on your skin and hair, including makeup powder, hair color or lipsticks and eyeliner.

The Risk Factors You Need to Understand

Using OTC skincare and cosmetic products randomly is quite risky for you and the long term repercussion cannot be overlooked. Presence of heavy metals used in pigments in the colours cosmetics products can pose serious health risk to you in long run. While the damages to health may not be visible initially when they are detected it can be too late. Studies have revealed continuous usage of cosmetic dye and other cosmetic products laden with specific heavy metals can cause major diseases. Apart from dermatological disorders, you can get afflicted with ailments affecting eyes, scalp and internal organs of body. Some of these ingredients have proven carcinogenic properties.

Rise of Cosmetic and skincare products with safer ingredients

Owing to the risk posed by color cosmetics products containing heavy metals, consumer safety groups have become vocal about the need for using safer ingredients in such products. The role played by entities like FDA deserve applauds in this context. Ingredients like mercury,cadmiumand lead which were used a lot in making grooming products are no longer used by major companies belonging to this sector. The companies serving as suppliers of pigments for use in cosmetic dye and related products have taken note of this development. KoelColours has taken major initiatives in this regard.

The countries like Canada, Japan and China have deployed stringent legal measures for limiting usage of such heavy metals in making skincare and cosmetic products. The same is true of the USA where the FDA has made it near impossible for skincare giants to use such heavy metals in their product range. While Indian government is yet to adopt similar strict measures on usage of these substances in cosmetic stuffs, the cosmetics manufacturers in India have become aware. Contenders like KoelColours have already started using safer and organic pigments for use in their products.

What you should do as a consumer?

To be on safe side, you should be careful when shopping for color cosmetics products. Before buying any such product, spend some time in reading the product label and find out type and amount of pigments and chemical ingredients present in the product. You should also look out for any warning published on any of the ingredients. It would be better if you buy and use the cosmetic products made with safer natural pigments and herbal ingredients.

What is an Organic Pigment for Cosmetics?

Cosmetics are an integral part of both male and female lifestyle. Hence, it is important to know the ingredients used in the products. In the makeup items, two types of pigments are used, organic and inorganic. Both the types of pigments are used in the makeup as it doesn’t cause allergy and are available in different colors. The color of the makeup carries a high importance as it is the prime activity of the makeup. Iron oxide is a type of inorganic pigment and is available in black iron oxide, yellow iron oxide and much more. Whereas lakes, which is the organic pigment, is obtained from the reaction of soluble dye and metallic salts. These are certified pigment colors that are safe for cosmetics.

The Properties of Organic & Inorganic Pigments

Let’s have a look at the various properties of the organic and inorganic pigments:

• Organic pigments are derived from carbon rings and chains. But might also contain traces of metallic elements, which are inorganic in nature, in order to stabilize the component. Inorganic pigments can be readily used in the manufacturing process of the makeup as it is a dry form of aprecipitated pigment.
• Organic pigments for cosmetics are transparent whereas the inorganic pigments are opaque as the approximate particle size of the inorganic color is larger than the organic one.
• The viscosity of the products completely depends on the personnel who mix the makeup. The cosmetic pigments can be divided into oil painting makeup and sumi painting makeup. The oil painting is used mainly for the purpose of permanent makeup whereas the sumi painting is meant for the people who don’t require permanent makeup.
• Due to the chemical composition, the inorganic pigments remain stable even in the presence of the organic solvents whereas various organic pigments tend to dissolve and have the tendency to resist from pigment migration and bleeding.

Dyes Used in Cosmetics

The most commonly used synthetic colors in hair dyes and cosmetics are known as FD&C colors. It is obtained from coal tar that is also a byproduct of petroleum. Dyes in cosmetics are safe on the skin and can be used without any hindrance. The basic difference between the dyes and pigments is that the dyes are soluble in any media they are introduced in whereas pigments are not.

Cosmetic Colors

Cosmetic color is a fantastic way to fill the life with colors and positivity. The cosmetics include eye shadows, lipsticks, nail paints and much more. The cosmetic colorants are produced from the cosmetic pigments and dyes. The renowned companies abide all the safety rules in the process of production of the cosmetics in India. The personal care products are prepared with utmost care to offer the customer safety along with style.

Conclusion

The high-quality pigment manufacturers are in high demand as they are the key to safe fashion. The safe and high-quality colors and pigments used in any product increases the value of the brand, which accentuates the business in a great way.