Abstracts: Basic optics of effect materials

Abstract

pp. 85–105 Effect materials derive their color and effect primarily from thin‐film interference. Effect materials have evolved over the decades from simple guanine crystals to the complex multilayer optical structures of today. The development of new complex effect materials requires an understanding of the optics of effect materials. Such an understanding would also benefit the cosmetic formulator as these new effect materials are introduced. The root of this understanding begins with basic optics. This paper covers the nature of light, interference of waves, thin‐film interference, color from interference, and color travel.