How Much Color? Making Lipstick with Oil Soluble Lip Colors

Last week, I took a Technical Support phone call from a gal who wanted to know how much color she needed to use to get a lipstick instead of a lip balm or a lip tint. She said, “You always mention Q.S. on your blog for lip tints like the Deep Plum Lip Tint, but you never share how much color you really use!” I had to laugh and explain that Q.S. was used to note that we had an idea of how much color, but not the exact amount that we used.

Finished jar of Andee’s first lipstick.

When my caller asked how much more color was needed to make a lipstick, I had to tell there was a lot more color used to make a lipstick than I’d ever considered. I told her that in my experience and from my reading of cosmetic formulas, a lipstick is anywhere from 3% to 20% of coloring pigments and/or pearlescent and luster agents. Can you say wowza? That’s a lot of color! Today, I want to show you the exact minimum amount of our Oil Soluble Lip Balm Colors that I needed to turn a jar of our Lanolin Lip Solutions into a lipstick.

I only used just over 5.5% for this test batch, but you can definitely use more! I recommend using the Plate Test to check the color and firmness of your lipstick before you pour it into your containers.

Recipe:

To make this lipstick, the first step is to microwave your jar of Lip Solutions until it is completely melted. Once it is melted, the next step is to add the colors and mix well. Now the flavors can be added and mixed in. Make sure to use the Plate Test to test this lipstick on your lips and decide the color is right before you fill the containers! Once the color is perfect for you, then you can pour it into the container of your choice. Label and enjoy.

Notes:

While this lipstick does have excellent color, it does not have long-term staying power due to Lanolin Lip Solutions being a better moisturizer than color applicator. I hope that you take today’s post as inspiration for your own lipsticks and feel free to make a whole lipstick recipe that works for you and your target wearers!

Would you make lipsticks?