How to Make Matte Liquid Lipstick

Making matte liquid lipstick involves combining a volatile solvent with film-forming polymers and pigments. The solvent evaporates after application, leaving behind a flexible, long-lasting film of the polymer and pigments on the lips, creating the matte, transfer-resistant finish.

Essential Ingredients:

To create a vivid, long-lasting, and waterproof matte liquid lipstick, the following types of ingredients are essential:

• Volatile Solvent: This acts as the base that dissolves other ingredients and evaporates quickly upon application. Isododecane is a common choice for its fast drying time and ability to create a matte finish.
• Film Former: These polymers create a flexible film on the lips after the solvent evaporates, providing longevity and transfer resistance. Examples include Hydrogenated Polycyclopentadiene (Oil Film) or various types of Silicone Film (such as those based in Isododecane).
• Wax: Waxes help to structure the formula, suspend pigments, and contribute to the texture. Microcrystalline Wax is often used in lipstick formulations.
• Powders/Fillers: Ingredients like Silk Mica Powder or other matte powders can improve texture, reduce stickiness, and enhance the matte appearance.
• Color Pigments: These provide the desired color. Using high-quality, cosmetic-grade pigments like Iron Oxides and Lake colors is crucial for vivid and stable color. Using pre-dispersed pigments (like EasyMix™ or ReadyMix™) can make the formulation process easier and ensure smooth color distribution.

Basic Formulation Principle:

The general principle involves creating an oil/solvent phase where the film former, solvent, and wax are combined and heated (if necessary to melt the wax). Pigments and powders are then added and thoroughly dispersed into this base. The mixture is then filled into appropriate packaging.

Color Mixing:

Color mixing for matte liquid lipstick involves accurately weighing and dispersing cosmetic pigments into the base formula. You can achieve various shades by combining primary pigments (red, yellow, black, white) and other colorants. It is recommended to start with small batches and adjust pigment ratios until the desired color is achieved. Using pre-dispersed pigments helps ensure uniform color without gritty texture.

For a specific example formula, you can refer to formulations that use ingredients like Hydrogenated Polycyclopentadiene (Oil Film), which often include example recipes for matte lip products on their detail pages.