A study on the impressions induced by lipstick colors

Abstract

Owing to the need for beauty in modern society, cosmetics are essential to enhance femininity and attractiveness. Lipstick is effective in reinforcing femininity and increasing beauty. This study conducted a psychophysical experiment to investigate the association between lipstick colors and the impressions they create. Thirty-five observers were invited to participate in the experiment. They were asked to assess 20 lipstick colors on 23 impression scales. The results showed that the impressions created by the lipstick colors comprised three factors: charm, cuteness, and contemporary. Charm was correlated with a* and lightness value of lipstick color and the color difference between lipstick-skin colors. Cuteness was negatively correlated with the hue angle of the lipstick colors and lightness differences between lipstick-skin colors. Contemporary was correlated with chroma differences and negatively correlated with b* of lipstick color. These lipstick colors can be classified into three groups based on impression factors. The results showed that a* value of lipstick color and the color difference ($△E$) between lipstick and skin color are identified to determine the grouping of lipstick colors.