How We Create Color

We believe that beauty should never come at the cost of safety—especially when it comes to products for kids. That’s why our Brand Partners use natural pigments like iron oxides and tin oxides to create vibrant, safe colors in our makeup. But what exactly are these oxides, how are they made, and why are they a safer alternative to synthetic dyes like FD&C colors? 

What Are Iron Oxides and Tin Oxides?

Iron oxides are naturally occurring minerals that have been used as pigments for thousands of years. You’ve probably seen their rich, earthy tones in everything from cosmetics to paints. Iron oxides come in a range of colors—reds, yellows, browns, and blacks—depending on the specific iron compound.

Tin oxides, on the other hand, are white or opaque pigments derived from tin. They are often used to add shimmer or lighten color in cosmetic formulations. Like iron oxides, tin oxides are naturally derived and safe for use on the skin.

How Are Iron and Tin Oxides Made?

Iron and tin oxides used in cosmetics are often created through a purification process that ensures their safety and consistency. Here’s how it works:

1. Purification of Raw Materials

For iron oxides, raw iron is mined from natural sources and then purified to remove impurities. For tin oxides, tin ore is extracted and processed in a controlled environment to produce the oxide form. This purification process helps ensure that the pigments are free from harmful contaminants like heavy metals, which can pose health risks.

3. Oxidation Process

To create color, iron and tin undergo an oxidation process. For iron oxides, iron is exposed to oxygen, which causes it to rust. This controlled oxidation creates different pigments depending on the degree of exposure—red iron oxide, for example, is formed when iron is fully oxidized, while yellow iron oxide comes from partial oxidation.

Tin oxides are produced by heating tin in the presence of oxygen, which results in a fine white powder that is safe for use in cosmetics.

3. Refining and Grinding

Once the oxides are formed, they are further refined and ground into fine powders that can be used in makeup formulations. This process ensures that the pigments are smooth and easy to apply.

Are Iron Oxides, Tin Oxides, and Titanium Dioxide Heavy Metals?

One of the biggest concerns in makeup and personal care products is the presence of heavy metals, which are toxic substances like lead, mercury, arsenic, and cadmium. These metals can accumulate in the body over time and pose serious health risks, such as neurological damage, cancer, and hormone disruption.

To clarify: iron oxides, tin oxides, and titanium dioxide are NOT considered heavy metals. These ingredients are minerals and are used as safe, non-toxic pigments in cosmetics. Heavy metals, on the other hand, are elements that, even in small amounts, can be harmful when absorbed by the skin or ingested.

• Iron oxides and tin oxides are naturally occurring and undergo purification processes to remove any traces of harmful contaminants, ensuring they are safe for cosmetic use.
  

• Titanium dioxide, another mineral often used in cosmetics, sunscreens, and skincare products, is also not a heavy metal. It is widely used to provide color and UV protection in a variety of products. While there has been some debate about titanium dioxide when used in nanoparticle form, it is generally considered safe when used as a pigment and in non-nano forms.

In contrast, heavy metals like lead and mercury can sometimes sneak into cosmetics through contamination during the production process, especially in poorly regulated or synthetic products. This is why choosing products made with naturally derived ingredients like iron oxides, tin oxides, and titanium dioxide can significantly reduce the risk of exposure to toxic heavy metals.

Why Iron and Tin Oxides Are Safe

Unlike synthetic dyes, which can contain harmful chemicals and heavy metals, iron and tin oxides are natural, non-toxic alternatives that are widely recognized as safe for use on the skin.

1. Non-Toxic and Hypoallergenic

Iron and tin oxides are gentle on the skin, making them ideal for use in products for children. They don’t contain harsh chemicals or irritants that can cause allergic reactions or long-term health risks.

2. Stable and Long-Lasting

One of the reasons we love using oxides is that they are incredibly stable. They don’t degrade or break down over time, meaning your child’s makeup will stay vibrant and safe, even with repeated use.

3. Free from Harmful Contaminants

The rigorous purification and refining process for iron and tin oxides ensures that these pigments are free from dangerous contaminants like lead, mercury, and arsenic. This makes them a much safer alternative to synthetic dyes, which often carry the risk of contamination.

4. Approved for Cosmetic Use

Iron and tin oxides are approved for use in cosmetics by multiple regulatory agencies worldwide, including the European Union (EU), which enforces some of the strictest safety standards in the industry. These pigments have undergone extensive testing and are considered safe for skin contact, meeting high safety requirements not just in the U.S. but also in the EU and other regions where regulations are more rigorous than those of the FDA. You can feel confident knowing these naturally-derived pigments are held to the highest global safety standards.

A Safer, Cleaner Way to Play

Here at Popsicle Beauty Club, we’re committed to creating products that are not only fun but also safe for your little ones. By using natural pigments like iron and tin oxides, we’re able to offer clean beauty options that are free from toxic chemicals and synthetic dyes. So when your child plays with our makeup, you can feel confident knowing that their skin is protected.

What to see these natural pigments in action? Explore our high performance, playful palettes and [literally] see how we create safe, vibrant colors for kids! 

Xo,
Rebecca