Ingredient review
CI 15580
INCI: CI 15580
A widely used synthetic red dye that adds color to cosmetics but offers no skincare benefits.
In plain English
CI 15580 is a man-made red pigment that gives a bright red or orange-red color to cosmetic products. You'll find it in things like bar soap, shampoo, and lipstick. It doesn't do anything for your skin—it's just there for appearance. Regulatory bodies consider it safe for use in cosmetics at the levels typically used.
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
CI 15580 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 CI 15580.
- 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
CI 15580 is a synthetic organic pigment, also known as D&C Red No. 36. It is a lake pigment, meaning it's made by combining a dye with a metal salt to make it insoluble in water, which helps it stay put on the skin or in a product.
How it works
It works by reflecting and absorbing specific wavelengths of light to produce a red color. In a cosmetic formula, it is simply mixed in to impart color. It does not react with skin or change the formula's function beyond appearance.
Pros
Vibrant color
Provides a bright, consistent red shade that is stable in many product types, from soap to lipstick.
Regulatory approval
Approved for use in cosmetics by the FDA and other global regulators when used within specified limits.
Cons and cautions
No skin benefit
CI 15580 is purely a colorant—it does not moisturize, protect, or improve skin health in any way.
Potential for staining
Can leave temporary red stains on skin, clothing, or bathroom surfaces, especially in high concentrations.
Best for
- Anyone who wants colorful cosmetics
- People who prefer synthetic over natural colorants
Use caution if
- Those with known sensitivity to synthetic dyes
- Vegans may avoid due to potential animal testing history (though not animal-derived)
Usage tips
Safety summary
CI 15580 is considered safe for cosmetic use by major regulatory agencies when used as directed. It has a low risk of irritation and is not known to be comedogenic. However, like all colorants, it offers no functional skin benefit.
Research notes
Safety assessments by the Cosmetic Ingredient Review (CIR) panel and FDA have concluded that D&C Red No. 36 is safe for use in cosmetics at current practice levels. No significant health concerns have been identified from topical use.
Common label clues
- Typical concentration
- Typically used at very low levels, often less than 1%
- Regulatory status
- Approved by the U.S. FDA for use in cosmetics, including in products intended for use around the eyes. Also listed in the EU CosIng database. Always used within concentration limits set by regulators.
- Common uses
- Soaps, Shampoos, Bath products, Lipsticks
- Environmental note
- As a synthetic pigment, it is not biodegradable and may accumulate in water systems. However, typical use levels in rinse-off products are very low.
Good to know
- CI 15580 is often listed as D&C Red No. 36 on US labels.
- It is not the same as Red 40 (a food dye) or other common reds—each has a different chemical structure and approved uses.
Common questions
What is CI 15580 in beauty products?
CI 15580 is a man-made red pigment that gives a bright red or orange-red color to cosmetic products. You'll find it in things like bar soap, shampoo, and lipstick. It doesn't do anything for your skin—it's just there for appearance. Regulatory bodies consider it safe for use in cosmetics at the levels typically used.
What does CI 15580 do in a beauty product?
It works by reflecting and absorbing specific wavelengths of light to produce a red color. In a cosmetic formula, it is simply mixed in to impart color. It does not react with skin or change the formula's function beyond appearance.
Is CI 15580 safe for most people?
CI 15580 is considered safe for cosmetic use by major regulatory agencies when used as directed. It has a low risk of irritation and is not known to be comedogenic. However, like all colorants, it offers no functional skin benefit.
Who should be careful with CI 15580?
Those with known sensitivity to synthetic dyes Vegans may avoid due to potential animal testing history (though not animal-derived)
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.