Ingredient review
Chromium Hydroxide Green
INCI: CHROMIUM HYDROXIDE GREEN (CI 77289)
A safe, opaque green pigment used in color cosmetics; generally well-tolerated but best avoided on broken or irritated skin.
In plain English
Chromium Hydroxide Green is a man-made green pigment that gives color to makeup like eyeshadows, eyeliners, and lipsticks. It is an inorganic compound, meaning it doesn't contain carbon-based molecules like many natural dyes. This makes it very stable—it won't fade or change color when exposed to light or air. It sits on the surface of the skin or nails and does not penetrate deeply, so it is considered very low risk for irritation or clogging pores. However, because it is a heavy metal compound, some people prefer to avoid it, especially if they have sensitive or compromised skin.
Review score
Safety, usefulness, and evidence
Potentially useful with some tradeoffs
The evidence base is relatively strong for its common cosmetic role.
Risk flags are low for most users, though the finished product can still irritate.
- Source
- synthetic
- Evidence
- strong
- Irritation
- low
- Clogging risk
- low
Quick decision guide
Useful, but context matters
Chromium Hydroxide Green 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 Chromium Hydroxide Green.
- 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
strongThere is a stronger practical or research basis for the ingredient role described here.
What it is
Chromium Hydroxide Green (CI 77289) is a synthetic inorganic pigment composed of chromium oxide and water. It is produced in a lab and is distinct from chromium oxide greens (CI 77288) by having a slightly different chemical structure that includes water molecules. It is approved for use in cosmetics by major regulators worldwide.
How it works
In a cosmetic product, Chromium Hydroxide Green works purely as a colorant. It is a fine powder that is dispersed into the product base (like a cream, powder, or liquid). Because it is insoluble in water and oils, it does not dissolve but instead remains as tiny particles that reflect and absorb light to create a green color. It provides opaque, even coverage and is very resistant to fading from sunlight or sweat.
Pros
Excellent color stability
Chromium Hydroxide Green does not fade or change color when exposed to sunlight, air, or sweat, so your makeup stays looking fresh longer.
Low irritation potential
As an insoluble pigment, it sits on the skin's surface and is not absorbed, making it unlikely to cause irritation or allergic reactions for most users.
Cons and cautions
Potential sensitivity for some
A small number of people with chromium allergies may experience redness or itching, especially if the pigment is used on broken or compromised skin.
Environmental persistence
As a synthetic mineral pigment, it does not break down easily in the environment. Proper disposal and wastewater treatment are important to minimize ecological impact.
Best for
- Anyone looking for a long-lasting green pigment in makeup
- People with normal to oily skin who want color that stays put
Use caution if
- Those with known chromium allergy or very sensitive, reactive skin
- Anyone with active eczema, cuts, or open wounds on the application area
Usage tips
Safety summary
Chromium Hydroxide Green is considered safe for use in cosmetics at typical concentrations. It has a low risk of irritation and is not known to be carcinogenic or toxic when used as intended. However, individuals with a known chromium allergy should avoid it, and it should not be applied to broken skin. Regulatory bodies have set purity limits to ensure it is free from harmful contaminants.
Research notes
Research on Chromium Hydroxide Green focuses on its safety as a cosmetic colorant. Studies have shown it is not absorbed through intact skin and has low acute toxicity. The Cosmetic Ingredient Review (CIR) panel has reviewed chromium hydroxide green and found it safe for use in cosmetics when formulated to avoid inhalation. Long-term environmental persistence is a noted concern.
Common label clues
- Typical concentration
- Typically 0.1% to 10% depending on desired color intensity
- Regulatory status
- Approved for use in cosmetics in the U.S. (FDA), European Union (EU CosIng), and many other countries. It is subject to purity standards to limit heavy metal contaminants.
- Common uses
- Eyeshadows, Eyeliners, Mascaras, Lipsticks, Nail polishes, Foundations
- Environmental note
- Chromium Hydroxide Green is a synthetic mineral pigment that does not biodegrade. It can accumulate in water systems if not properly filtered during manufacturing or disposal. Some eco-conscious consumers may prefer plant-based or biodegradable colorants.
Good to know
- Chromium Hydroxide Green is approved by the U.S. FDA, EU CosIng, and Japan's Ministry of Health for use in cosmetics.
- It is often listed as CI 77289 on ingredient labels.
- This pigment is not the same as chromium oxide greens (CI 77288), which have a slightly different chemical structure and may have different properties.
Common questions
What is Chromium Hydroxide Green in beauty products?
Chromium Hydroxide Green is a man-made green pigment that gives color to makeup like eyeshadows, eyeliners, and lipsticks. It is an inorganic compound, meaning it doesn't contain carbon-based molecules like many natural dyes. This makes it very stable—it won't fade or change color when exposed to light or air. It sits on the surface of the skin or nails and does not penetrate deeply, so it is considered very low risk for irritation or clogging pores. However, because it is a heavy metal compound, some people prefer to avoid it, especially if they have sensitive or compromised skin.
What does Chromium Hydroxide Green do in a beauty product?
In a cosmetic product, Chromium Hydroxide Green works purely as a colorant. It is a fine powder that is dispersed into the product base (like a cream, powder, or liquid). Because it is insoluble in water and oils, it does not dissolve but instead remains as tiny particles that reflect and absorb light to create a green color. It provides opaque, even coverage and is very resistant to fading from sunlight or sweat.
Is Chromium Hydroxide Green safe for most people?
Chromium Hydroxide Green is considered safe for use in cosmetics at typical concentrations. It has a low risk of irritation and is not known to be carcinogenic or toxic when used as intended. However, individuals with a known chromium allergy should avoid it, and it should not be applied to broken skin. Regulatory bodies have set purity limits to ensure it is free from harmful contaminants.
Who should be careful with Chromium Hydroxide Green?
Those with known chromium allergy or very sensitive, reactive skin Anyone with active eczema, cuts, or open wounds on the application area
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.