Ingredient review

Acid Red 14

INCI: CI 14720

A widely used synthetic red dye that adds color to cosmetics but offers no skincare benefits.

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In plain English

CI 14720 is a man-made red dye that gives a pink or red color to makeup and bath products. It doesn't do anything for your skin—it's purely for looks. In most people, it's safe and unlikely to cause problems, but a small number of people may find it irritating.

Quick decision guide

Read the cautions before using

Acid Red 14 is generally a lower-concern ingredient when the full formula suits your skin.

Plain-English read

Treat this as a practical screening step before you compare products that contain this ingredient.

  1. Step 1Start with the score, then check the irritation and clogging risk before judging Acid Red 14.
  2. Step 2Use the "Best for" and "Use caution if" sections to match the ingredient to your skin, not just to a marketing claim.
  3. Step 3If a product stings, breaks you out, or worsens irritation, judge the finished formula and stop using it even if the ingredient scores well.

Score terms in plain English

Irritation risk

low

Less likely to sting, burn, or bother most users, though sensitive skin can still react.

Clogging risk

low

Less likely to feel heavy or contribute to clogged pores for most skin types.

Evidence level

moderate

There is useful support, but formula details and claim strength still matter.

What it is

CI 14720 is a synthetic azo dye, also known as Acid Red 14 or Carmoisine. It's produced from petroleum and used to color a wide range of cosmetic and personal care products.

How it works

It works by absorbing and reflecting certain wavelengths of light, giving the product a red or pink hue. It does not interact with the skin's biology.

Pros

Vibrant color

Provides a bright, consistent red or pink shade that stays stable in the product over time.

Widely tested

Has a long history of use in cosmetics and is generally recognized as safe by regulators when used as directed.

Cons and cautions

No skincare benefit

This ingredient is purely cosmetic and does not hydrate, protect, or improve the skin in any way.

Potential irritant for some

A small percentage of people may experience contact dermatitis or irritation, especially if they have sensitive skin or a known dye allergy.

Best for

  • Anyone who wants colorful makeup
  • People without known dye sensitivities

Use caution if

  • Individuals with known allergies or sensitivities to azo dyes

Usage tips

Check the ingredient list if you have a known sensitivity to synthetic dyes.
Patch test a new product containing this dye on a small area of skin before full use.

Safety summary

Generally safe for most people when used in low concentrations in cosmetics. A small number of individuals may experience skin irritation or allergic reactions, particularly those with a history of dye sensitivity.

Research notes

Studies show that CI 14720 has low acute toxicity and is not a significant skin sensitizer for the general population. However, rare cases of contact dermatitis have been reported, especially in individuals with pre-existing dye allergies.

Common label clues

Typical concentration
Very low, often less than 1%
Regulatory status
Approved for use in cosmetics in the EU, US, and many other countries, subject to concentration limits and purity requirements.
Common uses
Lipsticks, Blushes, Eye shadows, Nail polishes, Bath products
Environmental note
As a synthetic azo dye, its production involves petroleum-based chemicals, and it may not be biodegradable, raising concerns about aquatic toxicity if not properly treated in wastewater.

Good to know

  • CI 14720 is also used as a food dye (Food Red 3) in some countries.
  • It is banned in some regions for food use but remains approved for cosmetics in most markets.

Common questions

What is Acid Red 14 in beauty products?

CI 14720 is a man-made red dye that gives a pink or red color to makeup and bath products. It doesn't do anything for your skin—it's purely for looks. In most people, it's safe and unlikely to cause problems, but a small number of people may find it irritating.

What does Acid Red 14 do in a beauty product?

It works by absorbing and reflecting certain wavelengths of light, giving the product a red or pink hue. It does not interact with the skin's biology.

Is Acid Red 14 safe for most people?

Generally safe for most people when used in low concentrations in cosmetics. A small number of individuals may experience skin irritation or allergic reactions, particularly those with a history of dye sensitivity.

Who should be careful with Acid Red 14?

Individuals with known allergies or sensitivities to azo dyes

Research sources

CosIng (EU Cosmetics Database)OpenPubChem - Acid Red 14OpenFDA Color Additive Status ListOpen

Ingredient reviews are educational and are not medical advice. Patch test new products and ask a licensed clinician about persistent irritation, allergies, pregnancy-specific questions, or diagnosed skin conditions.