Ingredient review
Beta-Carotene
INCI: CI 75130
A natural orange-red pigment that also provides antioxidant benefits, but its color can be unstable in some formulations.
In plain English
CI 75130 is the official colorant name for beta-carotene, the same pigment that gives carrots their orange color. In skincare and makeup, it's used to add warm tones to products like lipsticks and blushes. It also acts as an antioxidant, helping to protect the skin from environmental damage. However, it can fade or change color when exposed to light or air over time.
Quick decision guide
Useful, but context matters
Beta-Carotene 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 Beta-Carotene.
- 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 natural pigment found in many fruits and vegetables, beta-carotene is a carotenoid that the body can convert into vitamin A. In cosmetics, it's used both for its color and its antioxidant properties.
How it works
As a colorant, it absorbs certain wavelengths of light to produce an orange-red hue. As an antioxidant, it neutralizes free radicals, which are unstable molecules that can damage skin cells and accelerate aging.
Pros
Natural color source
Derived from plants, it offers a clean-label alternative to synthetic dyes for warm-toned products.
Antioxidant bonus
Beyond color, it helps protect skin from free radical damage, which can contribute to premature aging.
Cons and cautions
Color instability
Beta-carotene can degrade or change shade when exposed to light, heat, or air, which may affect product appearance over time.
Potential staining
The pigment can temporarily stain skin or fabrics, which may be undesirable for some users.
Best for
- Anyone looking for natural color in makeup
- Those wanting antioxidant benefits in their skincare
Use caution if
- People with known allergies to carrots or other sources of beta-carotene
- Those seeking extremely stable, long-lasting color
Usage tips
Safety summary
Generally recognized as safe for cosmetic use at typical concentrations. Rare allergic reactions may occur in sensitive individuals.
Research notes
Studies confirm beta-carotene's antioxidant activity in skin, but its color stability remains a formulation challenge. More research is needed on its long-term efficacy in topical products.
Common label clues
- Typical concentration
- 0.1% to 1% for color; higher in antioxidant formulations
- Regulatory status
- Approved as a color additive in cosmetics in the EU and US, with usage limits depending on the product type.
- Common uses
- Lipsticks, Blushes, Foundations, Serums, Moisturizers
- Environmental note
- Sourced from plants like carrots, algae, or palm oil; sustainable sourcing is important to avoid deforestation.
Good to know
- Beta-carotene is also a common dietary supplement and food colorant (E160a).
- In high concentrations, it can impart a noticeable orange tint to the skin, which is sometimes used in self-tanners.
Common questions
What is Beta-Carotene in beauty products?
CI 75130 is the official colorant name for beta-carotene, the same pigment that gives carrots their orange color. In skincare and makeup, it's used to add warm tones to products like lipsticks and blushes. It also acts as an antioxidant, helping to protect the skin from environmental damage. However, it can fade or change color when exposed to light or air over time.
What does Beta-Carotene do in a beauty product?
As a colorant, it absorbs certain wavelengths of light to produce an orange-red hue. As an antioxidant, it neutralizes free radicals, which are unstable molecules that can damage skin cells and accelerate aging.
Is Beta-Carotene safe for most people?
Generally recognized as safe for cosmetic use at typical concentrations. Rare allergic reactions may occur in sensitive individuals.
Who should be careful with Beta-Carotene?
People with known allergies to carrots or other sources of beta-carotene Those seeking extremely stable, long-lasting color
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.