Herbal Beauty: Lipstick and Blush from Red Cabbage

Red cabbage, which is frequently used in Turkish cuisine and a favorite ingredient in salads, will add ‘color’ to cosmetic products. Duygu Geçkin, a research assistant in the Department of Biomedical Engineering at Izmir University of Economics (IUE), has started a scientific study to use the natural pigments in red cabbage for coloring lipsticks and blushes. Stating that the project, supported by TUBITAK with 900,000 TL in funding, is expected to be completed within 12 months, Geçkin said, “We used red cabbage, which has a long shelf life and high pigment content, for this study. The natural pigment in red cabbage offers a wide range of color options, from purple to red. Currently, we aim to produce blush and lipstick products for cheek and lip coloring.”

Asst. Res. Geçkin noted that some cosmetic products, frequently used daily by women, might contain unnatural substances, including heavy metals, which can be toxic. With support from IUE Bioengineering graduate student Polen Nehir Ulaş, she emphasized that their work aims to color cosmetics entirely with natural ingredients, choosing red cabbage for its rich pigment content.

‘WIDE RANGE OF COLORS FROM PURPLE TO RED’

Stating that the natural pigment in red cabbage offers a wide range of color options, from purple to red Geçkin said, “We are working on making these pigments more durable for use in cosmetic products. Currently, we are obtaining shades of red, blue, and purple. To achieve and preserve these colors, we freeze red cabbage at -18 degrees Celsius and then extract its pigment. We are also conducting studies to enhance its longevity. Ultimately, we will perform tests to determine the extracted amount. Our current goal is to create blush and lipstick products for cheek and lip coloring. Later, we plan to develop eyeshadow.”

‘WE CAN USE ALL THE COLORS NATURE OFFERS’

Pointing out that many food items, particularly those with visual imperfections, are frequently discarded, Geçkin said, “Our aim is to utilize these products. For example, approximately 20 kilograms of cabbage leaves are discarded weekly in supermarkets simply because they lose their shine. We are working to make these products sustainable. We can use all the colors nature offers. Orange and yellow tones can be derived from orange peels, while various colors can be obtained from beets and grape skins, especially those used as residue.”