Revealing Colors of Concealers using the Cary 60 UV-Vis DRA

Significance of the Topic

Accurate measurement of cosmetic color is essential for ensuring consistency in product appearance and consumer satisfaction. UV-Vis diffuse reflectance spectroscopy enables precise characterization of pigments and dyes, supporting quality control, marketing differentiation, and new product design.

Objectives and Study Overview

This study aimed to determine the color coordinates of six powdered concealer samples using an Agilent Cary 60 UV-Vis spectrophotometer equipped with an internal diffuse reflectance accessory (DRA) and to evaluate the performance of the Agilent Cary WinUV Color software for color analysis.

Methodology and Instrumentation

Samples were prepared by spreading concealers on a textured plastic sheet using a Kimwipe. Reflectance spectra were recorded in diffuse reflection mode, referencing a blank plastic sheet baseline. Spectral data were collected from 360 to 830 nm at 1 nm intervals, and CIE A illuminant with a 2° observer angle was applied. Color spaces including Tristimulus, Chromaticity, and CIE L*a*b* were calculated automatically.

Instrumentation Used

• Agilent Cary 60 UV-Vis spectrophotometer
• Internal diffuse reflectance accessory (DRA)
• Agilent Cary WinUV Color software
• Solid film sample holder and transparent plastic sheets

Main Results and Discussion

Reflectance spectra clearly differentiated six concealer colors, with derived Tristimulus, Chromaticity, and CIE L*a*b* coordinates enabling precise color classification. Teal, yellow, salmon, purple, brown, and orange samples formed distinct coordinate clusters, facilitating objective comparison and quality assessment.

Benefits and Practical Applications

This method offers rapid, reliable color measurement for cosmetics, supporting:

• Quality control and batch consistency verification
• Color matching in product development
• Regulatory compliance for consumer safety

Future Trends and Potential Applications

Emerging directions include integration of automated sampling, inline color monitoring in production lines, use of machine learning for predictive color formulation, and expansion to other consumer products such as textiles and coatings.

Conclusion

The Cary 60 UV-Vis with internal DRA and WinUV Color software provides a robust, versatile platform for cosmetic color analysis. Its user-friendly operation and flexible data processing make it ideal for both research and industrial quality control.

Reference

• Worth C. Revealing Colors of Concealers using the Cary 60 UV-Vis DRA. Agilent Technologies Application Note, 2025.