Dyes and Pigments
Dyes and Pigments
We ensure that all of our cosmetic colorants meet or exceed global standards for heavy metals. Our colorants comply with regulations set by the Germany Federal Office of Consumer Protection, US 21 Code of Federal Regulations, and the EU Cosmetic Directive. The color additives used in our products are rigorously tested for purity. Our products are compliant with German Federal Regulations (BVL). All colorants meet US FDA 21 CFR standards. We use talc that contains no asbestiform minerals, which is tested using X-ray diffraction (XRD) and Transmission Electron Microscopy (TEM).
Cosmetic Mineral Pigments: Overview
Many color cosmetics use mineral pigments that are synthetically manufactured for purity, consistency, and safety. Synthetic origin lowers the risk of contamination compared with mined minerals, but does not eliminate it; therefore, cosmetic regulations require batch testing and certification to strict heavy metal limits.
Iron Oxides
Iron oxides are compounds of iron (Fe) and oxygen (O).
In cosmetics, they are synthetically manufactured (not mined) to ensure purity, consistency, and safety. They are created through controlled chemical processes—often precipitation, oxidation, or thermal methods—that result in ultra-fine powders of red (Fe2O3), yellow (FeOOH), or black (Fe3O4) pigments.
Because they are lab-made, they avoid the higher contamination risks (such as lead, arsenic, and mercury) sometimes found in naturally mined iron oxides. However, all cosmetic-grade synthetic iron oxides are still tested and certified to meet strict FDA (21 CFR 73.2250) and EU limits on heavy metals, ensuring they are safe for use on the skin.
Cosmetic-Grade Iron Oxides: Synthetic pigments filtered to meet FDA (21 CFR 73.2250) and EU standards; free from lead, arsenic, and mercury.
Other Cosmetic Pigments
Ultramarines
Ultramarines are complex sodium alumino-silicate pigments that produce vivid blue and violet shades. In cosmetics, they are always synthetically manufactured; natural ultramarine (ground lapis lazuli) is not used. Synthetic production ensures color consistency and safety, though trace heavy metals can still occur as byproducts of manufacturing. Cosmetic-grade ultramarines are therefore tested to meet FDA and EU limits on lead, arsenic, and mercury.
Chromium Green (Chromium Oxide Green)
Chromium green is a stable pigment made of chromium(III) oxide (Cr2O3). It is manufactured under controlled synthetic processes. The main regulatory focus is verifying that only the safe trivalent chromium (Cr(III)) form is present and that no hexavalent chromium (Cr(VI)) is detectable. Cosmetic standards require strict testing to confirm compliance with heavy metal safety limits.
Manganese Violet
Manganese violet is manganese ammonium pyrophosphate, a synthetic pigment used for purple tones. Although lab-made, it can contain trace impurities if not carefully processed. Cosmetic regulations require testing to verify stability, approved manganese states, and compliance with FDA and EU limits on heavy metals.
Key distinctions
- Natural mineral pigments: historically mined; variable quality; higher risk of heavy metal contamination.
- Synthetic cosmetic pigments: standardized, manufactured under controlled conditions, and certified to comply with FDA (21 CFR) and EU cosmetic regulations.
Compliance and testing
All pigments used by Coastal Classic Creations® are cosmetic-grade and undergo independent testing to verify they meet applicable FDA and EU limits on heavy metals. This testing safeguards against trace contaminants that can arise during synthesis and confirms the pigments' suitability for use on the skin, including sensitive areas.
Henna
Henna is a natural, plant-based coloring derived from the powdered leaves of the Lawsonia inermis shrub. We use 100% organic, pesticide-free henna with no synthetic additives. Henna's hennotannic acid creates a beautiful red-orange tint, sealing in moisture and providing a natural shine to hair. Our henna is 100% natural and organic. It contains no synthetic additives or chemicals. Henna helps provide a healthy shine and seals hair cuticles.
Nanotechnology in Cosmetics
Nanoparticles are extremely small particles, typically less than 100 nanometers in size. In cosmetics, nanoparticles are used in various products like sunscreens, moisturizers, and makeup to enhance their properties. While nanoparticles offer benefits, we avoid them due to potential safety concerns. Nanoparticles may penetrate skin more easily, causing irritation or inflammation. There are concerns about the long-term environmental impact of nanoparticles.The long-term safety of nanoparticles is still under research.
Ecological Impact
We use iron oxide-based inorganic dyes that have minimal environmental impact. These dyes do not contribute to water pollution and do not accumulate in the soil.