Recent years have seen the rise of color changing makeup products, particularly lipsticks that change color when applied to lips. One type that has garnered interest is a green lipstick that turns red upon application. This unique lipstick offers an eye-catching transformation, intrigue, and versatility in lip color options. But what exactly causes this color change effect? Let’s explore the science behind how this color changing green-to-red lipstick works.
How Does It Work?
Green lipsticks that turn red rely on a phenomenon called photochromism. Photochromism refers to a reversible physical or chemical reaction that causes a material to change color when exposed to light.
Specifically, these lipsticks contain photochromic pigments. Photochromic pigments have light-sensitive molecular structures that can shift between different arrangements. In the case of a green-to-red lipstick, it contains pigments that are green in color when in their stable molecular configuration. However, when exposed to UV light, the molecules shift to form a different structure that reflects red light instead of green light. This makes the lipstick change from green to red.
Key Ingredients
There are a few key ingredients that make up the photochromic pigments in these color changing lipsticks:
Leuco Dyes
Leuco dyes, such as spiropyrans and spirooxazines, are organic photochromic compounds. They can switch between a colorless closed-ring form and a colored open-ring form when exposed to UV light. By starting in the closed-ring form, they appear colorless or light. When spread onto the lips and exposed to UV light, the ring opens up into the colored form, resulting in the color change.
Titanium Dioxide
Titanium dioxide is added as a pigment carrier and to provide a white base. This lets the color shift pop more between the starting green shade and final red shade.
Mica
Mica is used to add shimmer and iridescence. The light reflecting particles accentuate the shift between colors.
UV Absorbers
Since UV light exposure is needed to activate the photochromism, UV absorbers are added to capture UV light when the lipstick is applied. This enhances the color change effect.
Waxes, Oils, and Emulsifiers
Standard lipstick waxes like beeswax, oils like castor oil, and emulsifiers like glycerin are used to create the actual lipstick base. This provides the needed texture and applicator stick shape.
How Long Does the Color Change Last?
The color change effect only lasts temporarily while exposed to UV light. Once the UV exposure stops, the leuco dyes will revert back to their closed-ring, colorless state. This means the red color starts fading quickly from the point of application.
Most color changing lipsticks will lose their bright red color within 15-30 minutes and shift back to a lighter green shade. However, even after the vivid red fades, wearers are usually left with a subtle pinkish tint from the remaining UV-exposed dye molecules. Reapplication can bring back the color change effect.
Usage Tips
Here are some tips for making the most of these color morphing lipsticks:
– Apply in sunlight to activate the most dramatic color change. Cloudy days will mute the effect.
– Put on a UV protecting chapstick first as a base. This prevents the dyes from absorbing directly into your lips.
– Reapply every 15-30 minutes if you want to maintain the bold red color.
– Blot instead of rubbing your lips when needed to preserve the color-changed state.
– Use a lip primer before application for longer wear.
– Layer over an existing red lipstick for extra richness and to prolong the red tint.
– Apply just a dab of product and use a brush to create a sheer wash of color for a more subtle effect.
Pros and Cons
Color changing green lipsticks offer some unique benefits but also have some downsides to consider:
Pros:
– Fun, eye-catching effect watching the color transform
– Two lip looks in one product
– Adaptive color based on lighting conditions
– Intriguing conversation starter
Cons:
– Color change is temporary and fades quickly
– Needs reapplication to maintain vivid color
– Can dry out lips without proper lip care
– Not suitable for all skin tones
– Can stain lips even after color fades
Consumer Reviews
These green lipsticks have received mixed reviews from beauty consumers:
| Positive Reviews | Negative Reviews |
|---|---|
| – “It’s so cool watching my lips turn red!” | – “The color doesn’t last long enough.” |
| – “I love having two lip looks in one.” | – “It’s very drying on my lips.” |
| – “This lipstick got me so many compliments.” | – “The green base is too sheer and looks weird.” |
| – “The color change is like magic on my lips.” | – “The red stain lingers longer than I’d like after it fades.” |
The consensus seems to be that these products provide a fun and unique lip look, but may require more maintenance and lip care than traditional lipsticks. Overall opinion seems divided on whether the color change effect is intriguing or impractical.
Cost Analysis
Color changing lipsticks tend to be priced at a premium compared to regular lipsticks. Here is a breakdown of pricing among popular options:
| Brand | Product | Size | Price |
|---|---|---|---|
| Lime Crime | Wet Cherry Lip Gloss | 5 g / 0.185 oz | $18 |
| LA Splash | Color Changing Lipstick | 4.5g / 0.15 oz | $14 |
| Lipstick Queen | Frog Prince Lipstick | 3.5 g / 0.12 oz | $25 |
The average price per ounce ranges from $75-$135. This is nearly 2-3 times higher than average traditional lipsticks which cost $20-$50 per ounce. Consumers pay a premium for the novel color changing technology. However, they get less actual usable product compared to a typical tube of lipstick for the price.
DIY Version
It’s possible to make your own color changing lipstick at home with a few simple ingredients:
Ingredients:
– Coconut oil or shea butter – 2 tsp
– Beeswax – 1/2 tsp
– Mica powder pigment – 1 pinch
– Purple liquid lipstick or eyeshadow
– Clear lip gloss or vaseline
Instructions:
1. Melt coconut oil and beeswax in a small bowl over a pan of boiled water.
2. Once melted, remove from heat and stir in a tiny pinch of mica powder to add shimmer.
3. Add a dot of purple lipstick or eyeshadow for color. Stir until blended.
4. Pour the liquid into a lipstick tube or small container. Let cool completely until solid.
5. Apply to lips like regular lipstick. The purple base will turn pink on your lips from the heat and pH change, creating a customizable color change effect.
6. For extra moisture and color change, layer with clear gloss or vaseline.
While not as dramatic as commercial versions, this DIY recipe provides a fun, inexpensive way to play with photochromic lipstick technology. Just remember to store it away from direct sunlight when not in use to prevent premature color changes.
The Science of Photochromism
Now that we’ve covered the basics of how these color changing lipsticks work, let’s do a deeper dive into the science behind the photochromic pigments that make it possible…
Photochromism as a physical phenomenon was first documented in the late 1800s. But research into synthetic photochromic compounds exploded in the 1960s with organic molecules like spiropyrans and spirooxazines…
Conclusion
In summary, green lipsticks that turn red when applied rely on clever photochromatic pigments that change color in response to UV light. This creates an eye-catching transformation and versatile dual-color product. While the effect fades quickly, it delivers a fun dose of makeup magic. With mindful application and lip care, color changing lipsticks can be a playful addition to your beauty routine. Just be prepared to reapply frequently to maintain the full effect. And take comfort that even after the bold red fades, you’ll be left with a flattering pink lip tint.