Which pigment is considered expensive due to its natural composition?

• A. Organic pigments
• B. Inorganic pigments
• C. Titanium dioxide
• D. Carbon

Answer: (A)

Pigment cost often tracks how the material is sourced and produced. Organic pigments are derived from natural, carbon-based compounds and require extraction and purification steps that are costly and can vary with the supply of natural materials. This complexity, plus the need for rigorous safety and purity controls for cosmetic use, drives up their price. In contrast, inorganic pigments are mineral-based and produced through highly scalable manufacturing processes, which generally keeps costs down. Titanium dioxide and carbon are common inorganic pigments that benefit from large-scale production, contributing to their relative affordability.