Ingredient review
Chromium Oxide Greens
INCI: CI 77288
A safe, stable green pigment widely used in color cosmetics, but avoid inhaling loose powder forms.
In plain English
CI 77288 is a green mineral pigment made from chromium oxide. It gives a muted, olive-to-forest green color to makeup and bath products. It's very stable—it won't fade in light or react with other ingredients—and is considered safe for most skin types. However, you should avoid breathing in the loose powder, as inhaling any fine particles can irritate your lungs.
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 Oxide Greens 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 Oxide Greens.
- 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
CI 77288 is the Color Index name for chromium(III) oxide, a green inorganic pigment. It is produced synthetically but also occurs naturally as the mineral eskolaite. In cosmetics, it's used solely for coloring.
How it works
As a pigment, CI 77288 sits on the surface of the skin or nail, reflecting green light. It does not penetrate the skin or react chemically with it. Its color is very stable to light, heat, and pH changes, so the shade stays consistent in the product over time.
Pros
Very stable color
CI 77288 resists fading from sunlight and doesn't react with other ingredients, so your makeup stays the same shade over time.
Low irritation risk
It's one of the gentlest colorants for skin, making it a good choice for sensitive skin types or around the eyes.
Cons and cautions
Inhalation concern in powder form
Breathing in loose particles of any pigment can irritate your lungs. Use pressed or cream formulas to avoid this risk.
Not for all lip products
Some regulatory bodies, like the EU, restrict CI 77288 in lip products, so check labels if you want a green lipstick.
Best for
- Anyone looking for a green eyeshadow or eyeliner
- People with sensitive skin who want a low-irritation color option
Use caution if
- Those who frequently use loose powder products and are concerned about inhalation
- Anyone looking for a very bright, neon green (this pigment gives a muted tone)
Usage tips
Safety summary
CI 77288 is considered safe for use in cosmetics at typical concentrations. The main risk is inhalation of loose powder, which can cause lung irritation. Skin irritation and allergy are very rare. It is not absorbed through the skin in significant amounts.
Research notes
The Cosmetic Ingredient Review (CIR) panel has reviewed chromium oxide greens and concluded they are safe for use in cosmetics when formulated to avoid inhalation. The EU Scientific Committee on Consumer Safety (SCCS) also supports its safety with restrictions on lip and mucous membrane use.
Common label clues
- Typical concentration
- Typically used at 0.1% to 10% depending on desired shade intensity
- Regulatory status
- Approved as a color additive in cosmetics in the US (FDA) and EU (Annex IV). The EU restricts its use in lip products and products applied to mucous membranes. Always check local regulations.
- Common uses
- Eyeshadows, Mascaras, Eyeliners, Lipsticks, Nail polishes, Soaps, Bath products
- Environmental note
- Chromium oxide green is synthetically produced, reducing the need for mining. However, its production involves energy-intensive processes. It is not biodegradable but is stable in the environment.
Good to know
- CI 77288 is different from chromium hydroxide green (CI 77289), which is a slightly different shade.
- It is not the same as hexavalent chromium compounds, which are toxic. CI 77288 is trivalent chromium and is considered safe in cosmetics.
Common questions
What is Chromium Oxide Greens in beauty products?
CI 77288 is a green mineral pigment made from chromium oxide. It gives a muted, olive-to-forest green color to makeup and bath products. It's very stable—it won't fade in light or react with other ingredients—and is considered safe for most skin types. However, you should avoid breathing in the loose powder, as inhaling any fine particles can irritate your lungs.
What does Chromium Oxide Greens do in a beauty product?
As a pigment, CI 77288 sits on the surface of the skin or nail, reflecting green light. It does not penetrate the skin or react chemically with it. Its color is very stable to light, heat, and pH changes, so the shade stays consistent in the product over time.
Is Chromium Oxide Greens safe for most people?
CI 77288 is considered safe for use in cosmetics at typical concentrations. The main risk is inhalation of loose powder, which can cause lung irritation. Skin irritation and allergy are very rare. It is not absorbed through the skin in significant amounts.
Who should be careful with Chromium Oxide Greens?
Those who frequently use loose powder products and are concerned about inhalation Anyone looking for a very bright, neon green (this pigment gives a muted tone)
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.