Formulating cosmetics can be a lot like cooking. And just like when you are making lunch or dinner, some dishes and cosmetic formulas must be heated and others can be mixed at room temperature. Here are some reasons there is a difference.

I always suggest a review of regulations as the first step in selecting color additives for use in making cosmetics. Colorant regulations can limit the use to certain cosmetic applications and percentages and can also vary by the country in which the product is sold. I recently watched a formulator scramble to replace D&C Red 7 Lake in an eye shadow color at the last minute after realizing it’s not permitted for eye area use in the United States.