Pearl pigments consist of fine mineral particles that are coated with layers of metal oxides, such as titanium dioxide (C.I. 77891) or iron oxide (C.I. 77491). It is these layers that are responsible for their unique optical properties. These pigments are widely used in color cosmetics, especially in makeup products, nail polish, hair and body care products.
Properties of pearl pigments:
- have a pearlescent and shimmering effect, reflecting light to create shimmering, satin and metallic effects,
- depending on the angle of the light, they can change their shade,
- They combine well with other pigments and cosmetic bases,
- have an inorganic origin, so they rarely cause allergies and are stable,
- are heat and light resistant – they do not fade under UV light, as some organic pigments do,
- Are popular in premium products.
Types of pearl pigments:
1. CLASSIC PEARL PIGMENTS
They are most often based on mica (mica, C.I. 77019), which is a natural mineral and provides a carrier for the pearlescent effect. These pigments can have different effects depending on the metallic coatings used. The most popular colors of classic pearlescent pigments are:
- Gold pearl (C.I. 77491, 77891, Mica) – used in eye shadows, lipsticks, glosses, nail polishes and paints with a gold reflex effect
- White pearl (C.I. 77891, Mica) – used in highlighters, highlighting powders, bright lipsticks, makeup bases with a “glow” effect, and tanning cosmetics
- Silver pearl (C.I. 77891, Mica) – used in chrome-effect nail polishes, eye shadows and hair cosmetics with a holographic effect
2. INTERFERENCE PEARL PIGMENTS
These are pigments that change color depending on the angle of light. This is because light reflects off multiple layers of metal oxides, creating an optical effect. In our offer we have, for example:
- Interference blue – used in glosses, eye shadows and hair dyes with a pearl effect
- Interference green – used in eye makeup products and nail polishes with a holographic effect
- Interferential pink – used in highlighters, powders, lipsticks and blushes
3. PEARLESCENT METALLIC PIGMENTS
These are pearlescent pigments with intense metallic luster. Their texture resembles classic pearl pigments, but they have a stronger light-reflecting effect. They are used in mirror effect nail polishes, eyeliners, foil effect eye shadows, metallic lipsticks and hair styling cosmetics.
4. PEARL PIGMENTS WITH CHAMELEON EFFECT
These are the most technologically advanced pigments that change color depending on the light and angle of view. They are more expensive, but produce extraordinary visual effects. They are used in eyeshadows with a “duochrome” (two-color) effect, nail polishes with a holographic effect and hair dyes with a pearlescent sheen.
