URGENT UPDATE: A viral claim about a supposed “blue pigment shortage” in the beauty industry has been debunked by renowned cosmetic chemist Javon Ford. In a new TikTok video, Ford, based in Los Angeles, clarifies that the trend towards warmer makeup tones is not due to a lack of blue pigments as previously suggested.
In the eye-opening clip, which has racked up over 162,900 views, Ford states emphatically, “No, there’s not a blue pigment shortage.” Instead, he explains that many beauty brands simply opt not to incorporate blue pigments into their foundation products. He cites L’Oréal and a few other brands as exceptions that do use blue pigments to enhance their formulations.
Ford takes his assertion a step further by reaching out to two global pigment suppliers, both of whom confirmed there is no ongoing shortage of blue pigments. The pigment commonly used in complexion makeup, ultramarine blue, is created from readily available materials like sulfur and kaolin clay, which are not in short supply.
For consumers seeking the right undertones in their makeup, Ford recommends options from L’Oréal-owned brands including Urban Decay. In his video, he highlights the significant contributions of Balanda Atis, L’Oréal’s former lead chemist, who played a pivotal role in advancing the makeup industry’s approach to deeper, more inclusive shades. Atis’s innovative use of ultramarine blue has transformed how brands create foundation shades, particularly for women of color, offering depth and dimension that traditional formulations lacked.
Atis’s groundbreaking work has led to the launch of over a dozen new foundation shades across major brands like Lancôme, Maybelline, and Giorgio Armani. Her efforts have pushed the beauty industry to expand shade ranges, reflecting a more accurate representation of diverse skin tones.
Viewers have been quick to engage with Ford’s video, sharing their thoughts on other brands that excel in inclusion. Comments include, “Dior and Armani add blue,” while others pointed out that some brands, like Pat McGrath, fall short in this area. Many users expressed their appreciation for Ford’s expertise, with one remarking, “I just love how educated and knowledgeable you are about this topic.”
This revelation comes at a critical time for the beauty industry, as consumers increasingly demand transparency and inclusivity in product formulations. The discussion surrounding blue pigment usage highlights a larger movement towards acknowledging the complexities of diverse skin tones.
As the beauty community continues to react, consumers are encouraged to explore brands that prioritize inclusivity. Ford’s insights may shift how brands formulate their products, encouraging a broader acceptance of blue pigments to achieve more realistic skin tones.
Stay tuned for more updates on this developing story as it unfolds across social media platforms and the beauty industry.
