So, picture this: you’re swiping on your favourite red lipstick or blending that perfect blush, feeling fabulous, when a random thought hits you What makes this colour so stunningly red? Let me break it to you gently: that gorgeous hue might be courtesy of dead ants. Yep, you read that right. Don’t get scared and throw away your lipsticks right away, first read
Carmine, Ants And Red Lipsticks
Let me explain before you freak out and chuck your entire makeup bag. The red pigment in many lipsticks, blushes, and even some eyeshadows comes from a substance called carmine. And guess what? Carmine is made from crushed cochineal insects a type of tiny bug that looks like a miniature ant and thrives on cacti. Here’s the deal. Cochineal insects produce carminic acid to keep predators away, and that acid, when processed, turns into the vivid red pigment we see in makeup. This has been a thing for centuries ancient civilizations like the Aztecs and Mayans used these insects to dye their fabrics and create vibrant artworks. Who knew our modern glam obsession was so old-school?
But here’s where it gets complicated. While the idea of bugs in beauty products might sound like a nightmare, carmine is considered more natural compared to synthetic dyes, which are often petroleum-based. And yes, carmine is a go-to ingredient for many high-end and clean beauty brands because it’s less likely to cause allergic reactions compared to artificial red pigments. Now, if you’re vegan or the thought of crushed bugs in your makeup gives you the ick, don’t worry you’ve got options! Plenty of brands are now creating cruelty-free and vegan products using plant-based or lab-created pigments to replace carmine. Look for labels that explicitly say vegan or synthetic pigments if you’re on the hunt for bug-free beauty.
Honestly, though? This whole bug revelation makes me think twice about the things we use daily without questioning them. But at the same time, it’s fascinating to see how humans have been resourceful (or let’s say creative) in finding ways to make themselves feel beautiful throughout history.
Also Read: 5 Affordable Dupes For The Fenty MVP Red Lipstick Worn By Janhvi Kapoor At The Jio World Plaza!