FORMULATIO N AND CHARACTERIZATION OF PLANT PIGMENT ENRICHED HERBAL LIPSTICKS

Priyanka P., Nethaji Ramalingam ?, Abhirami P. P., Anagha U. V., Haritha K. K., Vimal K. R.

ABSTRACT

Cosmetics have been widely used since ancient times, with lipsticks remaining one of the most popular products for enhancing the beauty and protection of the lips. Conventional lipsticks generally contain pigments, oils, waxes, and emollients that provide color and texture, but their use may be limited on dry, chapped, or cracked lips. Moreover, many synthetic formulations incorporate dyes and heavy metals, which may pose adverse health effects. In recent years, natural colorants have gained significance due to their non-toxic, biocompatible, and eco-friendly properties. Herbal lipsticks not only provide aesthetic enhancement but may also confer therapeutic benefits for common lip conditions. In the present study, herbal lipsticks were formulated using three natural colorants—Curcuma longa (turmeric), Beta vulgaris (beetroot), and Carica papaya (papaya)—along with natural excipients such as olive oil, ripe fruit powder of Acacia concinna (shikakai), castor oil, coconut oil, and paraffin wax. The prepared formulations were evaluated for organoleptic and functional parameters, including spreading ability, covering capacity, hardness, shine, and gloss. Manual skin irritation testing indicated no signs of irritation, although no formal certification was obtained. All lipsticks exhibited satisfactory performance, with the Beta vulgaris-based formulation showing superior color intensity and stability. Overall, the results suggest that herbal lipsticks are a safe and effective alternative to synthetic variants, offering both cosmetic appeal and therapeutic benefits, with minimal or no side effects.

Keywords: Curcuma longa, Beta vulgaris, Carica papaya, Herbal Lipsticks, Natural Ingredients, Pigments, Cosmetics.