Ingredient review

Acid Red 27 Aluminum Lake

INCI: ACID RED 27 ALUMINUM LAKE

A widely used synthetic red pigment that adds vibrant color to makeup but offers no skincare benefits.

beautyskincarecolorant

In plain English

Acid Red 27 Aluminum Lake is a man-made pigment that gives a bright red color to cosmetics like lipstick and blush. It is made by attaching a red dye to an aluminum base, which makes it stable and long-lasting. This ingredient is purely for color and does not treat or improve the skin.

Quick decision guide

Useful, but context matters

Acid Red 27 Aluminum Lake 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 27 Aluminum Lake.
  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

A synthetic lake pigment formed by precipitating Acid Red 27 dye onto an aluminum hydroxide substrate, creating an insoluble colorant that resists bleeding and fading.

How it works

In a cosmetic product, the aluminum lake particles physically adhere to the skin or nail surface, depositing a uniform layer of red color. Because it is insoluble in water and oil, it stays put without migrating or smudging easily.

Pros

Vibrant color payoff

Delivers a strong, consistent red hue that stays true on the skin without fading or bleeding.

Formulation versatility

Works well in powders, creams, and liquids, making it a go-to for many makeup products.

Cons and cautions

Potential allergen

Some people may experience skin irritation or allergic reactions, especially around sensitive areas like eyes and lips.

No skincare benefit

This ingredient is purely cosmetic and does not hydrate, protect, or improve skin health.

Best for

  • Anyone wanting bright red makeup shades
  • People who prefer synthetic colorants over natural ones

Use caution if

  • Individuals with known allergies to synthetic dyes or aluminum compounds

Usage tips

Patch test new products containing this colorant on a small area of skin before full use.
If you have sensitive skin, look for products with minimal colorant concentrations or natural alternatives.

Safety summary

Generally considered safe for most people when used as directed, but may cause irritation or allergic reactions in sensitive individuals. Avoid contact with eyes unless specifically formulated for eye use.

Research notes

Studies confirm low acute toxicity and skin irritation potential at typical cosmetic concentrations. Allergic contact dermatitis is rare but documented in case reports.

Common label clues

Typical concentration
Typically 0.1% to 5% depending on desired color intensity
Regulatory status
Approved for use in cosmetics in the US (FDA) and EU (as CI 45410:1) with restrictions on maximum concentration in eye-area products.
Common uses
Lipsticks, Blushes, Eyeshadows, Nail polishes, Facial makeup
Environmental note
Synthetic colorants like this are not biodegradable and may accumulate in water systems if not properly filtered during manufacturing.

Good to know

  • Lake pigments are generally more stable than their dye counterparts, resisting water and oil.
  • This colorant is approved for use in cosmetics by the FDA under specific concentration limits.

Common questions

What is Acid Red 27 Aluminum Lake in beauty products?

Acid Red 27 Aluminum Lake is a man-made pigment that gives a bright red color to cosmetics like lipstick and blush. It is made by attaching a red dye to an aluminum base, which makes it stable and long-lasting. This ingredient is purely for color and does not treat or improve the skin.

What does Acid Red 27 Aluminum Lake do in a beauty product?

In a cosmetic product, the aluminum lake particles physically adhere to the skin or nail surface, depositing a uniform layer of red color. Because it is insoluble in water and oil, it stays put without migrating or smudging easily.

Is Acid Red 27 Aluminum Lake safe for most people?

Generally considered safe for most people when used as directed, but may cause irritation or allergic reactions in sensitive individuals. Avoid contact with eyes unless specifically formulated for eye use.

Who should be careful with Acid Red 27 Aluminum Lake?

Individuals with known allergies to synthetic dyes or aluminum compounds

Research sources

FDA Color Additive Status ListOpenCosIng Database - CI 45410:1OpenPubMed - Allergic contact dermatitis from Red 27 lakeOpen

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.