Ingredient review

Chromium Oxide Green

INCI: CI 77289

A safe, FDA-approved green pigment that adds color without common irritation or clogging pores.

beautyskincarecolorant

In plain English

CI 77289 is a green powder made from chromium oxide, a mineral compound. It's used in makeup to give a green color, like in eyeshadows or eyeliners. It's considered very safe for skin and is approved by regulators worldwide, but you should avoid inhaling the loose powder.

Review score

Safety, usefulness, and evidence

3.8Good
3.8/ 5

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
How reviews are scored

Quick decision guide

Useful, but context matters

Chromium Oxide 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.

  1. Step 1Start with the score, then check the irritation and clogging risk before judging Chromium Oxide Green.
  2. Step 2Use the "Best for" and "Use caution if" sections to match the ingredient to your skin, not just to a marketing claim.
  3. 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

low

Less likely to sting, burn, or bother most users, though sensitive skin can still react.

Clogging risk

low

Less likely to feel heavy or contribute to clogged pores for most skin types.

Evidence level

strong

There is a stronger practical or research basis for the ingredient role described here.

What it is

CI 77289 is a synthetic inorganic pigment derived from chromium(III) oxide. It provides an opaque, muted green color that is stable in light and heat, making it a reliable choice for colorful cosmetics.

How it works

As a pigment, it sits on the surface of the skin or hair, reflecting green light to create color. It does not chemically react with the skin or absorb into deeper layers, so its effect is purely visual and temporary.

Pros

Very gentle on skin

CI 77289 has a low irritation risk and is non-comedogenic, so it's unlikely to cause breakouts or redness, even on sensitive skin.

Color stays true

The pigment is highly stable under light and heat, meaning your green eyeshadow won't fade or change color throughout the day.

Cons and cautions

Can be drying in powders

In loose or pressed powder forms, high concentrations may absorb moisture from the skin, leading to a dry or chalky feel.

Inhalation risk with loose powder

If you use loose pigment, fine particles can become airborne and irritate your lungs if inhaled, so handle carefully.

Best for

  • Anyone looking for a green eyeshadow or eyeliner
  • People with sensitive skin who want a gentle colorant

Use caution if

  • Those with a known allergy to chromium compounds (rare)
  • Anyone who prefers natural or plant-derived colorants

Usage tips

Use a damp brush to apply loose powder pigments to reduce dust and improve adhesion.
Pair with a moisturizing primer if you have dry skin to prevent a chalky finish.
Avoid blowing excess powder off your brush—tap it gently instead.

Safety summary

CI 77289 is considered safe for cosmetic use by major regulators. Skin irritation and allergy are very rare. The main risk is inhalation of loose powder, which can irritate the lungs, so avoid creating dust clouds.

Research notes

Numerous safety reviews, including from the Cosmetic Ingredient Review (CIR) panel, have concluded that chromium oxide green is safe in cosmetics at current usage levels. Studies show very low skin penetration and no significant toxicity.

Common label clues

Typical concentration
Up to 10% in leave-on products, varies by shade intensity
Regulatory status
Approved by the U.S. FDA as a color additive for cosmetics, including eye area use, under 21 CFR 73.2326. Also permitted in the EU and many other countries.
Common uses
Eyeshadows, Eyeliners, Mascaras, Lipsticks, Nail polishes, Face powders
Environmental note
Chromium oxide is mined and processed, which has environmental impacts. However, it is not biodegradable and can persist in the environment, so proper disposal is important.

Good to know

  • CI 77289 is approved by the FDA for use in cosmetics, including around the eyes.
  • It is also used in some tattoo inks and industrial paints, but cosmetic-grade is purified for safety.

Common questions

What is Chromium Oxide Green in beauty products?

CI 77289 is a green powder made from chromium oxide, a mineral compound. It's used in makeup to give a green color, like in eyeshadows or eyeliners. It's considered very safe for skin and is approved by regulators worldwide, but you should avoid inhaling the loose powder.

What does Chromium Oxide Green do in a beauty product?

As a pigment, it sits on the surface of the skin or hair, reflecting green light to create color. It does not chemically react with the skin or absorb into deeper layers, so its effect is purely visual and temporary.

Is Chromium Oxide Green safe for most people?

CI 77289 is considered safe for cosmetic use by major regulators. Skin irritation and allergy are very rare. The main risk is inhalation of loose powder, which can irritate the lungs, so avoid creating dust clouds.

Who should be careful with Chromium Oxide Green?

Those with a known allergy to chromium compounds (rare) Anyone who prefers natural or plant-derived colorants

Research sources

FDA Color Additive Status ListOpenCosmetic Ingredient Review (CIR) Safety AssessmentOpenPubChem - Chromium(III) OxideOpen

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.