CI 77499 (Iron Oxides)
Ingredient Info
CI 77499 is a black iron oxide pigment used primarily as a colorant in makeup and tinted skincare products. It provides deep black or dark brown shades and is one of the few approved synthetic colorants for use around the eye area.
Benefits
- Provides stable, long-lasting black or dark pigmentation in products
- Generally well-tolerated by sensitive skin, including around eyes
- Inert mineral that doesn't interact chemically with skin
Potential concerns
- May cause irritation in people with known sensitivities to iron oxides (rare)
- Potential for staining if product is not fully set or removed properly
- Inhalation risk during powder application — avoid breathing in loose formulations
Science: Iron oxides are approved colorants in cosmetics globally (FDA, EU) and have a long history of safe use in color cosmetics. Limited peer-reviewed data available for this ingredient specifically, but extensive regulatory safety dossiers confirm minimal skin penetration and low toxicity risk.
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