Ingredient review
Aluminum Powder
INCI: CI 77000
A safe, FDA-approved metallic pigment for sparkle, but not a skincare active.
In plain English
CI 77000 is just a fancy name for aluminum powder used to give makeup a metallic or glittery look. It doesn't treat skin or provide moisture—it's purely for appearance. Think of it as the sparkle in your eyeshadow or nail polish.
Review score
Safety, usefulness, and evidence
Potentially useful with some tradeoffs
The evidence base is useful, but some claims depend heavily on the formula.
Risk flags are low for most users, though the finished product can still irritate.
- Source
- synthetic
- Evidence
- moderate
- Irritation
- low
- Clogging risk
- low
Quick decision guide
Useful, but context matters
Aluminum Powder 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.
- Step 1Start with the score, then check the irritation and clogging risk before judging Aluminum Powder.
- Step 2Use the "Best for" and "Use caution if" sections to match the ingredient to your skin, not just to a marketing claim.
- 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
lowLess likely to sting, burn, or bother most users, though sensitive skin can still react.
Clogging risk
lowLess likely to feel heavy or contribute to clogged pores for most skin types.
Evidence level
moderateThere is useful support, but formula details and claim strength still matter.
What it is
A finely ground aluminum metal powder used as a colorant in cosmetics to produce a silver or metallic effect.
How it works
It sits on the surface of the skin or nail, reflecting light to create a shiny, metallic finish. It does not penetrate the skin or interact with biological processes.
Pros
Safe for topical use
Approved by the FDA and Cosmetic Ingredient Review as safe for external use in cosmetics at typical levels.
Vibrant metallic effect
Provides a high-shine, silvery finish that is hard to achieve with natural pigments like mica.
Cons and cautions
No skincare benefit
It is purely decorative and does not hydrate, protect, or improve skin health.
Potential inhalation risk
Loose powder forms can be inhaled, which may irritate the lungs. Avoid creating airborne dust.
Best for
- Anyone wanting a metallic or glittery makeup look
- People who enjoy bold, shiny eye shadows or nail polishes
Use caution if
- Those with very sensitive or broken skin (rare irritation possible)
- Individuals who prefer completely natural or mineral-only cosmetics
Usage tips
Safety summary
Generally safe for topical use at low concentrations. Avoid inhaling loose powders. Not a concern for most users.
Research notes
The Cosmetic Ingredient Review panel concluded aluminum powder is safe for use in cosmetics when formulated to avoid inhalation. No significant skin absorption or toxicity concerns at typical use levels.
Common label clues
- Typical concentration
- Typically less than 1% in leave-on products
- Regulatory status
- Approved as a color additive for cosmetics in the US (FDA) and EU (Annex IV).
- Common uses
- Eyeshadows, Nail polishes, Lip products, Body glitter
- Environmental note
- Aluminum mining has environmental impacts, but the amount used in cosmetics is very small.
Good to know
- CI 77000 is the same as aluminum powder, often listed under its Color Index number.
- It is different from aluminum salts used in antiperspirants.
Common questions
What is Aluminum Powder in beauty products?
CI 77000 is just a fancy name for aluminum powder used to give makeup a metallic or glittery look. It doesn't treat skin or provide moisture—it's purely for appearance. Think of it as the sparkle in your eyeshadow or nail polish.
What does Aluminum Powder do in a beauty product?
It sits on the surface of the skin or nail, reflecting light to create a shiny, metallic finish. It does not penetrate the skin or interact with biological processes.
Is Aluminum Powder safe for most people?
Generally safe for topical use at low concentrations. Avoid inhaling loose powders. Not a concern for most users.
Who should be careful with Aluminum Powder?
Those with very sensitive or broken skin (rare irritation possible) Individuals who prefer completely natural or mineral-only cosmetics
Research sources
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.