From Woman's World · Samantha Agate · · 1m 30s
Color-Changing Lipstick Returns with pH Science
Color-changing lipsticks from childhood are back, using pH science to match skin tone.
In brief
Color-changing lipsticks from childhood are back, using pH science to match skin tone. Color-changing makeup has evolved from a nostalgic gimmick to a platform for skincare benefits. Originally reported by Woman's World.
Color-Changing Makeup Revival
Color-changing makeup, meaning pH-reactive lipsticks, balms, blushes and foundations that shift shade on contact with skin, is in full revival.
Tangee's Legacy
The category traces its lineage back to Tangee, a familiar tube from mothers' vanities and first makeup bags.
Price Range Expansion
Tom Ford sells pH-Adaptive Pink Stain lip balm for $24-karat gold-infused, hydrating lip balm at luxury prices, while Essence offers Aqua Jelly Colour Changing Lipstick for $4.99.
Beyond Lips
Color-changing technology now extends to cheeks with Sephora’s Color Twister and Tangee powder, and to full face with Prime Prometics’ Color Changing Foundation for Mature Skin.
pH Science Explained
Dermatologist Dr. Kiran Sethi explains pH-activated makeup uses dye or chemical that changes color based on skin’s unique pH.
“pH-activated makeup basically uses a dye or chemical that changes color according to the skin’s pH”
Red 27 Chemistry
Cosmetic chemist Ni’Kita Wilson explains Red 27 dye turns bright pink when in contact with moisture, changing solubility and pH.
“Red 27 is pH-driven”
TikTok Virality
Youthforia’s Color Changing Blush Oil went viral on TikTok before the brand shut down, showing how quickly products can capture attention.
“Youthforia BYO BLUSH Color Changing Blush Oil went viral on TikTok before the brand shut down”
Next Steps for Brands
Brands aim to migrate pH-adaptive technology to full face, pairing it with skincare benefits like SPF and hydration.
Long-Term Survival
The next competitive edge for color-changing makeup will be skincare benefits, not the color shift itself.
What matters most
Color-changing makeup has evolved from a nostalgic gimmick to a platform for skincare benefits.
