Using Water-Soluble Cosmetic Color in Scalp Treatment with Ethanol and Distilled Water

Question

I would like to ask if the Water-Soluble Cosmetic Colors sold here can be mixed with compounds like ethanol and Distilled Water. I am planning to make a liquid product for scalp application and need to add color for aesthetic purposes, as the main ingredients are colorless. Therefore, I want to ask if the Water-Soluble colors sold here can be used for mixing, and if they will stain the scalp or skin when applied?

MySkinRecipes Expert · Accepted Answer

Water-Soluble Cosmetic Colors in Scalp Products

Regarding your question about using water-soluble cosmetic colors in a scalp product containing ethanol and distilled water:

Mixing with Distilled Water and Ethanol:
- Water-soluble colors are designed to dissolve in water and are suitable for use in water-based formulations like yours which contains distilled water.
- Compatibility with ethanol depends on the concentration of ethanol. While they dissolve in water, high concentrations of ethanol might affect their solubility or stability. It's best to test compatibility with your specific formulation.
Staining the Scalp or Skin:
- Whether the color stains depends on the specific type of water-soluble color you choose.
- Some standard water-soluble colors, such as Black Color Powder (Water-Soluble), may potentially stain the skin or scalp.
- Colors with the EasyWash™ designation, like Black Color EasyWash™ and Caramel Color EasyWash™, are specially designed not to stick to surfaces and are easy to wash off, making them less likely to stain.
- Conversely, colors with the HiStain™ designation, such as Black Color HiStain™ and Caramel Color HiStain™, are designed to adhere well to the skin for long-lasting color, and are therefore more likely to stain.