Absolutely loved the products! The quality exceeded my expectations and shipping was incredibly fast. Will definitely be ordering again.Sarah Johnson
Description
This fascinating pigment changes colour in the sun or under certain UV lighting conditions. This includes purple, blue or black UV light.
10% of our photochromic pigment can be added to most binder systems. 5g of pigment can be used to produce 50ml of paint or printing ink. 35ml of mixed product will typically cover 1 square meter, per coat.
Mix this product in a metal or plastic container. A plastic spatula can be used when mixing small test batches. A low shear mixer or triple roll mill should be used for professional production. Avoid using a high shear mixer as Photochromic pigments are micro encapsulated and shear mixing is likely to damage the encapsulate.
SFXC® Photochromic crystal (pigment) contain photochromic encapsulated dye. The dye contains one molecule that alters its state when exposed to UV.
Photosensitive pigment can be used for a wide range of applications. This includes security, fashion, UV awareness, jewellery, textile printing, paper and board printing, and arts & crafts.
Photochromic pigments can be mixed with water based and solvent based mediums to create printing inks and paints that change colour in the sun. These pigments are ideal for flexographic, screen printing and UV curing systems..
Standard photochromic dyes (used in the lenses of glasses) are water soluble and cannot be used in aqueous mediums. We have now encapsulated the dyes with in a polymer shell to allow our customers to achieve a photochromic effect when using water based binder systems.
Like photochromic eyewear, it is important that you avoid leaving photochromic coated items in ultra strong UV for prolonged periods of time as this could damage the sensitivity of the coating.
We also stock Photochromic Ink.
We can offer trade and bulk pricing on orders over 1kg. Custom colours can also be manufactured to order. Please contact us.
Please read the TDS and MSDS before use. Please click here to view the MSDS and TDS.
The information supplied in this product description is for guidance only.
Please fully test our products before print runs, projects, installations and production.
Colours and packaging may vary.

What Our Customers Say
Great customer service and even better products. The team went above and beyond to make sure I was satisfied with my purchase.Mike Chen
I've been shopping here for over a year now and the quality is consistently excellent. Highly recommend to anyone looking for reliable products.Emma Davis
Frequently Asked Questions
Who is SFXC ?
SFXC is a family-owned UK-based business specialising in innovative and creative materials for commercial, domestic, and educational projects. Since launching in 2008, we’ve grown into a trusted brand for special effects and smart materials worldwide.
What makes SFXC different ?
As smart material specialists, we not only source, manufacture, and distribute unique pigments, coatings, and plastics — we also offer expert advice, extensive testing, and a passion for pushing the limits of creativity.
What industries do you work with ?
We work with everyone — from artists and universities to automotive giants, film productions, fashion labels, printers, space exploration, and even the military! If your project needs a creative spark, we’re here to help.
What special effect materials do you offer ?
Our technologies include Liquid Crystal, Thermochromic, Photochromic, Hydrochromic, Glow in the Dark, Fluorescent, Pearlescent, Colour Changing, Holographic, Conductive, Reflective, Scented, Invisible, and Infrared materials. We also offer a range of additives and binder systems.
Do you offer project support ?
Absolutely! Our full Design Service can help with R&D, material sourcing and consultancy, product design and manufacturing, direct marketing, print and design, and installations. We love helping our customers bring their ideas to life.