Ingredient review

CI 11710

INCI: CI 11710

CI 11710 is a widely used yellow pigment that adds color to makeup but offers no skincare benefits.

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In plain English

CI 11710 is a yellow pigment made from synthetic chemicals. It is used in makeup like lipstick and eyeshadow to give them a yellow shade. It does not treat or improve your skin—it's purely for color. Think of it like food coloring for cosmetics.

Review score

Safety, usefulness, and evidence

3.0Fair
3.0/ 5

Useful in the right context, but not low-maintenance

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
How reviews are scored

Quick decision guide

Read the cautions before using

CI 11710 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 CI 11710.
  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

moderate

There is useful support, but formula details and claim strength still matter.

What it is

CI 11710 is a synthetic organic pigment, specifically a monoazo pigment, that produces a bright yellow color. It is approved for use in cosmetics in many regions, including the EU and the US.

How it works

In a cosmetic product, CI 11710 is dispersed as fine particles throughout the formula. These particles reflect and absorb light in a way that makes the product appear yellow. It does not react with skin or change color over time.

Pros

Bright, stable color

CI 11710 delivers a consistent yellow shade that doesn't fade quickly, so your makeup stays vibrant longer.

Widely accepted

It is approved by major regulatory bodies like the FDA and EU for use in cosmetics, so it's been tested for safety.

Cons and cautions

No skin benefit

This ingredient is purely decorative—it adds color but does not hydrate, protect, or improve your skin in any way.

Potential allergen for some

Although rare, a small number of people may be sensitive to azo pigments, leading to mild irritation or allergic reaction.

Best for

  • Anyone looking for yellow color in makeup
  • People who want long-lasting color in lip products

Use caution if

  • Those with known allergies to azo dyes (rare)

Usage tips

Check the ingredient list if you have sensitive skin or known dye allergies
Use in combination with nourishing ingredients if you want both color and skin benefits

Safety summary

CI 11710 is considered safe for use in cosmetics at typical concentrations. It has low irritation and comedogenic potential. Rare allergic reactions are possible in individuals sensitive to azo dyes.

Research notes

Research on CI 11710 focuses on its chemical stability and color performance. It has been evaluated by the Cosmetic Ingredient Review (CIR) panel and is generally recognized as safe for external use.

Common label clues

Typical concentration
Typically used at very low concentrations, often less than 1%
Regulatory status
Approved for use in cosmetics in the EU (Annex IV) and by the US FDA as a color additive for externally applied cosmetics.
Common uses
Lipsticks, Blushes, Eyeshadows, Nail polishes, Soaps
Environmental note
As a synthetic pigment, its production involves chemical synthesis, which may have environmental impacts. However, it is not known to bioaccumulate.

Good to know

  • CI 11710 is also known as Pigment Yellow 3 and is often listed simply as 'Yellow 3 Lake' on labels.
  • It is not water-soluble, so it works well in oil-based and wax-based formulas.

Common questions

What is CI 11710 in beauty products?

CI 11710 is a yellow pigment made from synthetic chemicals. It is used in makeup like lipstick and eyeshadow to give them a yellow shade. It does not treat or improve your skin—it's purely for color. Think of it like food coloring for cosmetics.

What does CI 11710 do in a beauty product?

In a cosmetic product, CI 11710 is dispersed as fine particles throughout the formula. These particles reflect and absorb light in a way that makes the product appear yellow. It does not react with skin or change color over time.

Is CI 11710 safe for most people?

CI 11710 is considered safe for use in cosmetics at typical concentrations. It has low irritation and comedogenic potential. Rare allergic reactions are possible in individuals sensitive to azo dyes.

Who should be careful with CI 11710?

Those with known allergies to azo dyes (rare)

Research sources

Cosmetic Ingredient Review (CIR) - Safety Assessment of Color AdditivesOpenFDA - Color Additives Permitted for Use in CosmeticsOpenEU CosIng Database - CI 11710Open

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.