Ingredient review

CI 16290

INCI: CI 16290

CI 16290 is a safe, widely used synthetic red dye that adds color to makeup but offers no skincare benefits.

beautyskincarecolorant

In plain English

CI 16290 is a man-made red pigment that gives lipsticks, blushes, and other cosmetics their bright red color. It is approved for use in many countries and is generally considered safe at the tiny amounts used in makeup. It does not hydrate, protect, or treat your skin—it is purely for visual appeal.

Review score

Safety, usefulness, and evidence

3.5Good
3.5/ 5

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
How reviews are scored

Quick decision guide

Useful, but context matters

CI 16290 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 16290.
  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 16290 is a synthetic azo dye, specifically a red colorant approved for cosmetic use. It is also known as Acid Red 195 or Food Red 10.

How it works

In a cosmetic product, CI 16290 is mixed into the formula to impart a red color. It works by absorbing and reflecting certain wavelengths of light, making the product appear red. It does not interact with the skin or change its function.

Pros

Vibrant color payoff

Provides a strong, consistent red shade that stays true in various lighting conditions.

Widely regulated and tested

Approved by major regulators like the FDA and EU for use in cosmetics, with a long history of safe use.

Cons and cautions

No skin benefit

CI 16290 is purely a colorant—it does not moisturize, protect, or improve skin health in any way.

Potential allergen for some

Though rare, a small number of people may experience contact dermatitis or allergic reactions to azo dyes.

Best for

  • Anyone looking for a bold red color in their makeup
  • People who prefer synthetic colorants over natural ones for consistency

Use caution if

  • Individuals with known allergies to azo dyes (rare)

Usage tips

Check the ingredient list if you have sensitive skin or known dye allergies.
Use makeup containing CI 16290 as directed—avoid applying to broken or irritated skin.

Safety summary

CI 16290 is considered safe for use in cosmetics at the low concentrations typically employed. Rare allergic reactions have been reported, but it is not a common irritant or sensitizer.

Research notes

Research on CI 16290 focuses on its safety as a color additive. Regulatory bodies have reviewed it and set acceptable daily intake levels for food and cosmetic use. No significant health risks have been identified at typical exposure levels.

Common label clues

Typical concentration
Typically used at very low concentrations (less than 1%) to achieve desired color.
Regulatory status
Approved for use in cosmetics in the US (FDA), EU, and many other countries, subject to purity and concentration limits.
Common uses
Lipsticks, Blushes, Eyeshadows, Nail polishes
Environmental note
As a synthetic dye, its production involves chemical synthesis and may have environmental impacts; however, it is used in very small amounts per product.

Good to know

  • CI 16290 is often listed alongside other colorants in the ingredient list; the 'CI' stands for Colour Index, an international numbering system.
  • It is not water-soluble, so it works best in oil-based or wax-based formulas like lipsticks and creams.

Common questions

What is CI 16290 in beauty products?

CI 16290 is a man-made red pigment that gives lipsticks, blushes, and other cosmetics their bright red color. It is approved for use in many countries and is generally considered safe at the tiny amounts used in makeup. It does not hydrate, protect, or treat your skin—it is purely for visual appeal.

What does CI 16290 do in a beauty product?

In a cosmetic product, CI 16290 is mixed into the formula to impart a red color. It works by absorbing and reflecting certain wavelengths of light, making the product appear red. It does not interact with the skin or change its function.

Is CI 16290 safe for most people?

CI 16290 is considered safe for use in cosmetics at the low concentrations typically employed. Rare allergic reactions have been reported, but it is not a common irritant or sensitizer.

Who should be careful with CI 16290?

Individuals with known allergies to azo dyes (rare)

Research sources

FDA Color Additive Status ListOpenEuropean Commission CosIng DatabaseOpenPubMed - Safety of Azo Dyes in CosmeticsOpen

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.