Ingredient review
Bis-Diisopropylphenyl Tetraphenoxyperylene Tetracarboxdiimide
INCI: BIS-DIISOPROPYLPHENYL TETRAPHENOXYPERYLENE TETRACARBOXDIIMIDE
A safe, synthetic red pigment that adds vibrant color to makeup but offers no skincare benefits.
In plain English
This is a man-made red pigment that gives lipsticks, blushes, and eyeshadows their rich color. It's not absorbed into the skin and sits on the surface, so it doesn't hydrate or treat anything. Think of it like food coloring for your makeup—it's there for looks, not function.
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
Bis-Diisopropylphenyl Tetraphenoxyperylene Tetracarboxdiimide 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 Bis-Diisopropylphenyl Tetraphenoxyperylene Tetracarboxdiimide.
- 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 synthetic organic pigment belonging to the perylene family, specifically designed for cosmetic use to provide a bright red hue. It is approved by regulators like the FDA for use in cosmetics.
How it works
It works by reflecting and absorbing specific wavelengths of light to produce a red color. The pigment particles are insoluble in water and oils, so they stay on the skin's surface without dissolving or penetrating, providing long-lasting color.
Pros
Vibrant color payoff
Delivers a rich, true red that stays bright on the lips or cheeks without fading quickly.
Low irritation risk
Rarely causes allergic reactions or breakouts, making it suitable for sensitive skin types.
Cons and cautions
No skincare benefits
This pigment does not moisturize, soothe, or protect the skin—it's purely cosmetic.
Potential staining
Can temporarily stain skin or clothing, especially in high-concentration formulas like liquid lipsticks.
Best for
- Anyone wanting vibrant red lip or cheek color
- People with sensitive skin who tolerate synthetic pigments well
Use caution if
- Those seeking skincare benefits from their makeup
- Vegans or those avoiding synthetic ingredients (though it is vegan)
Usage tips
Safety summary
Considered safe for use in cosmetics at typical concentrations. The Cosmetic Ingredient Review (CIR) panel has evaluated similar perylene pigments and found them safe when used as intended. No significant health risks have been identified.
Research notes
Limited peer-reviewed studies on this specific pigment, but perylene-based colorants are well-studied for stability and safety. Regulatory approvals from FDA and EU CosIng support its safe use in cosmetics.
Common label clues
- Typical concentration
- Typically used at low concentrations (0.1% to 5%) to achieve desired color intensity.
- Regulatory status
- Approved by the U.S. FDA as a color additive for cosmetics (subject to purity requirements). Also listed in the EU CosIng database as a permitted colorant.
- Common uses
- Lipsticks, Lip glosses, Blushes, Eyeshadows, Nail polishes
- Environmental note
- As a synthetic pigment, it is not biodegradable and may accumulate in waterways if not properly filtered during manufacturing.
Good to know
- This pigment is often listed as 'Red 30' on labels in the US.
- It is not water-soluble, so it won't run or bleed easily when wet.
Common questions
What is Bis-Diisopropylphenyl Tetraphenoxyperylene Tetracarboxdiimide in beauty products?
This is a man-made red pigment that gives lipsticks, blushes, and eyeshadows their rich color. It's not absorbed into the skin and sits on the surface, so it doesn't hydrate or treat anything. Think of it like food coloring for your makeup—it's there for looks, not function.
What does Bis-Diisopropylphenyl Tetraphenoxyperylene Tetracarboxdiimide do in a beauty product?
It works by reflecting and absorbing specific wavelengths of light to produce a red color. The pigment particles are insoluble in water and oils, so they stay on the skin's surface without dissolving or penetrating, providing long-lasting color.
Is Bis-Diisopropylphenyl Tetraphenoxyperylene Tetracarboxdiimide safe for most people?
Considered safe for use in cosmetics at typical concentrations. The Cosmetic Ingredient Review (CIR) panel has evaluated similar perylene pigments and found them safe when used as intended. No significant health risks have been identified.
Who should be careful with Bis-Diisopropylphenyl Tetraphenoxyperylene Tetracarboxdiimide?
Those seeking skincare benefits from their makeup Vegans or those avoiding synthetic ingredients (though it is vegan)
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.