Ingredient review
Carbon Black
INCI: CI 77267
Carbon Black is a common black pigment in cosmetics, generally safe for external use but may be irritating if inhaled or used near eyes in high amounts.
In plain English
Carbon Black is a fine black powder made by burning natural gas or oil. In cosmetics, it's used to give a deep black color to products like eyeliners, mascaras, and lipsticks. It's considered safe for skin application, but because it's a fine powder, it can be irritating if inhaled or if it gets into the eyes. The cosmetic industry uses a purified grade that meets safety standards.
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
Carbon Black 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 Carbon Black.
- 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
Carbon Black is a black pigment produced by the incomplete combustion of hydrocarbons. It is chemically similar to soot but is processed to remove impurities for cosmetic use.
How it works
In a cosmetic product, Carbon Black acts as a colorant by absorbing visible light, giving the product a black or dark shade. It is typically dispersed in a base like wax or oil to create a smooth, even application.
Pros
Intense color payoff
Carbon Black provides a deep, true black that is hard to achieve with other pigments, making it ideal for dramatic eye looks.
Good stability
It is resistant to fading from light and heat, so products maintain their color over time.
Cons and cautions
Potential eye irritation
If the product migrates into the eyes, Carbon Black can cause stinging or irritation, especially for sensitive users.
Inhalation risk
In powder form, Carbon Black can be a respiratory irritant. This is more a concern during manufacturing than for consumers using finished products.
Best for
- People looking for bold black eye makeup
- Those who want long-wearing eyeliner or mascara
Use caution if
- Individuals with sensitive eyes or contact lens wearers
- People with asthma or respiratory conditions who may inhale powder forms
Usage tips
Safety summary
Carbon Black is considered safe for use in cosmetics when used as intended. The main risks are eye irritation and respiratory issues from inhalation of loose powder, which is rare in consumer products.
Research notes
Studies show that Carbon Black is not a skin sensitizer or carcinogen in cosmetic use, but inhalation studies in animals have raised concerns about lung effects at high doses. Cosmetic grades are purified to minimize risks.
Common label clues
- Typical concentration
- Typically used at 1-10% in color cosmetics
- Regulatory status
- Approved as a color additive in cosmetics by the FDA and EU, with restrictions on purity and use in eye-area products.
- Common uses
- Eyeliners, Mascaras, Lipsticks, Nail polishes
- Environmental note
- Carbon Black production is energy-intensive and can release greenhouse gases, but it is not typically a major environmental concern in finished cosmetic products.
Good to know
- Carbon Black is different from charcoal; charcoal is from burnt organic matter and is used for absorption, while Carbon Black is purely a colorant.
- The cosmetic grade of Carbon Black is purified to remove harmful polycyclic aromatic hydrocarbons (PAHs).
Common questions
What is Carbon Black in beauty products?
Carbon Black is a fine black powder made by burning natural gas or oil. In cosmetics, it's used to give a deep black color to products like eyeliners, mascaras, and lipsticks. It's considered safe for skin application, but because it's a fine powder, it can be irritating if inhaled or if it gets into the eyes. The cosmetic industry uses a purified grade that meets safety standards.
What does Carbon Black do in a beauty product?
In a cosmetic product, Carbon Black acts as a colorant by absorbing visible light, giving the product a black or dark shade. It is typically dispersed in a base like wax or oil to create a smooth, even application.
Is Carbon Black safe for most people?
Carbon Black is considered safe for use in cosmetics when used as intended. The main risks are eye irritation and respiratory issues from inhalation of loose powder, which is rare in consumer products.
Who should be careful with Carbon Black?
Individuals with sensitive eyes or contact lens wearers People with asthma or respiratory conditions who may inhale powder forms
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.