Analysis of Liquid Lipstick Formula

Thank you for providing your liquid lipstick formula and questions.

Based on the formula provided and the staff's response:

1. Necessity of Ingredients: The staff confirms that this formula is complete and all 9 components are necessary for creating a stable and effective liquid lipstick with long-wearing properties.
2. Ingredient Functions for Long-Wear and Non-Drying Texture:
   • Isododecane acts as the primary solvent and carrier. It helps dissolve other ingredients and evaporates after application, leaving behind the film formers.
   • Trimethylsiloxysilicate is a key film-forming silicone resin. It creates a durable, flexible film on the lips that provides long-lasting wear and transfer resistance.
   • Dimethicone is a silicone fluid that provides slip for smooth application and acts as an emollient, helping to condition the lips and counteract potential dryness from the film formers and volatile solvent.
   • Bentone Gel and Fumed Silica (or its suggested alternative, Oil-Fix) act as thickeners and suspending agents, helping to stabilize the formula, prevent pigment settling (once color is added), and contribute to the texture.
   • Synthetic Beeswax provides structure and stability to the formula.
   • Synthetic Fluorphlogopite can improve texture or provide a visual effect.
   • Tocopheryl Acetate is an antioxidant.
   • The Preservative Blend (or the suggested alternative, Mild Preserved Eco) is essential to prevent microbial contamination.
     
     The combination of a volatile solvent (Isododecane), a strong film former (Trimethylsiloxysilicate), and conditioning agents (Dimethicone, waxes) is what helps achieve a long-lasting finish that is not overly dry.
3. Substitutions: While all components are recommended, the staff suggested specific products available from their shop as alternatives for two ingredients:
   • For Fumed Silica (2.5%), they recommend using Oil-Fix.
   • For the Preservative Blend (Caprylyl Glycol, Hexylene Glycol, Phenoxyethanol 0.2%), they recommend using Mild Preserved Eco at 1%.
4. Missing Component: The formula currently lacks colorants. You will need to add pigments or dispersed colors to achieve the desired shade. The staff recommends choosing between ReadyMix Color (if you don't have grinding equipment) or Pigment Color (if you have a grinder or high-shear homogenizer).

This formula provides a good base for a long-wearing liquid lipstick. Using the recommended ingredients from the shop, including the suggested alternatives, should help you achieve the desired texture and performance for your project.