Cosmetics

Manufacturing lipstick masses

Lipstick masses consist mainly of waxes, oils, fats and colour and effect pigments. In addition to hygiene, the safe handling of very different viscosities is what matters. We design and supply process plants that handle these tasks flexibly and efficiently. More on this under Cosmetics.

Exact temperature controlVessels and pipework are precisely temperature-controlled.
High shearPigments often no longer need to be pre-ground.
Low-dustIncorporate volatile powders and pigments cleanly.

Raw materials of a lipstick mass

Waxes

For example, beeswax, candelilla wax or carnauba wax give the stick its shape.

Oils and fats

Castor oil and other fats provide shine and care. Depending on the recipe, this produces emulsions, suspensions or solutions.

Colour and effect pigments

The insoluble pigments must be distributed evenly so that the colour is right.

All steps in one plant

For short batch times, the agitators should carry out all production steps simultaneously. These include temperature control and melting of the fats, homogenising and incorporating the colour pigments. Suitable fittings for the homogeniser chamber, circulation line and lid are also important.

  • Pressure- and vacuum-resistant design for hygienic working in one homogenising step
  • Very good radial and vertical mixing of the viscous mass
  • Convenient drawing-in and dispersing of powders and pigments
  • Rotor-stator system with high shear rate
  • Wear protection of the rotor-stator teeth when processing pigments
  • Integrated GMP-compliant CIP cleaning with suitable cleaning agents

Finally, the lipstick mass is discharged and filled while still free-flowing. Are you planning such a plant? We will be happy to advise you, including on used homogenising mixers. Related topics: Colour pigments and Lip gloss.

FAQ: Manufacturing lipstick masses

What is a lipstick mass made of?

A wax-oil base (e.g. beeswax, candelilla or carnauba wax, castor oil), fats, colour and effect pigments as well as care substances, antioxidants and flavourings.

How is the mass produced?

Waxes and oils are melted, pigments are drawn in with little dust and dispersed with high shear, and the mass is deaerated and poured into moulds or filled while still free-flowing.

Do pigments have to be pre-ground?

Not always. Many pigments can be incorporated directly with powerful rotor-stator homogenisers. Where fineness requirements are high, additional grinding is carried out on roller mills or bead mills.

What should be considered with the plant?

Exact temperature control of all product-contact areas including pipework, vacuum, a scraper agitator and wear-resistant homogeniser teeth.

Does SEEFRIED supply plants for decorative cosmetics?

Yes, we design plants for lipstick, lip gloss and make-up and offer suitable used homogenising mixers.