Ingredients for Color Changing Lipstick

For lipsticks that change color when applied to the skin, pigments that react to pH changes are typically used. Two common examples are D&C Red 27 and D&C Red 21.

These pigments appear as a light color (often light orange or pink) in the product and change to a different color, usually pink or red shades, when they come into contact with the skin. This color change is triggered by the difference in pH between the product formula and the skin.

They are soluble in oils and are recommended for use in anhydrous (water-free) formulations, such as lipsticks or lip balms. The typical usage rate is between 0.1% and 3%, depending on the desired color intensity.

Other types of color-changing pigments exist, such as temperature-activated pigments or encapsulated pigments, but D&C Red 27 and D&C Red 21 are specifically known for their use in pH-reactive lip products.