Ingredient review
CI 20470
INCI: CI 20470
CI 20470 is a safe, widely used synthetic black dye for rinse-off products, but offers no skincare benefit.
In plain English
CI 20470 is a man-made black colorant added to products like shampoo and soap to make them look dark or black. It does not improve your skin or hair—it's purely cosmetic. In rinse-off products, it is considered safe at the tiny amounts used, but it may stain fabrics or skin temporarily.
Review score
Safety, usefulness, and evidence
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
Quick decision guide
Read the cautions before using
CI 20470 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 20470.
- 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 20470 is a synthetic azo dye that produces a deep black color. It is also known as Acid Black 1 or Acid Black 10B and is commonly used in rinse-off personal care products.
How it works
It works by absorbing and reflecting light in the visible spectrum to create a black appearance. In a product, it dissolves in water and evenly distributes to give a uniform dark shade.
Pros
Effective colorant
Provides a consistent, deep black shade in rinse-off products like shampoos and body washes.
Low irritation risk
At typical low concentrations, it rarely causes skin irritation for most people.
Cons and cautions
No skincare benefit
It is purely aesthetic and does not moisturize, protect, or improve skin or hair.
Potential staining
Can leave temporary black marks on skin, towels, or clothing, especially in high concentrations.
Best for
- Anyone who wants a black-colored rinse-off product
- People without sensitivities to synthetic dyes
Use caution if
- Individuals with known allergies to azo dyes
- Those seeking skincare benefits from colorants
Usage tips
Safety summary
CI 20470 is considered safe for use in rinse-off cosmetics at low concentrations. It has a low irritation and comedogenic risk, but individuals with azo dye allergies should avoid it.
Research notes
Safety assessments by the EU Scientific Committee on Consumer Safety (SCCS) and FDA support its use in rinse-off products. No significant toxicity or sensitization has been reported at authorized levels.
Common label clues
- Typical concentration
- Very low (typically less than 1%)
- Regulatory status
- Approved for use in rinse-off cosmetics in the EU (Annex IV) and by the US FDA as a color additive, subject to purity and concentration limits.
- Common uses
- Shampoos, Shower gels, Soaps, Hair dyes
- Environmental note
- As a synthetic azo dye, it may persist in wastewater and is not biodegradable; proper disposal is important.
Good to know
- CI 20470 is approved for use in cosmetics in many regions, including the EU and US, with concentration limits.
- It is not recommended for leave-on products due to higher exposure risk.
Common questions
What is CI 20470 in beauty products?
CI 20470 is a man-made black colorant added to products like shampoo and soap to make them look dark or black. It does not improve your skin or hair—it's purely cosmetic. In rinse-off products, it is considered safe at the tiny amounts used, but it may stain fabrics or skin temporarily.
What does CI 20470 do in a beauty product?
It works by absorbing and reflecting light in the visible spectrum to create a black appearance. In a product, it dissolves in water and evenly distributes to give a uniform dark shade.
Is CI 20470 safe for most people?
CI 20470 is considered safe for use in rinse-off cosmetics at low concentrations. It has a low irritation and comedogenic risk, but individuals with azo dye allergies should avoid it.
Who should be careful with CI 20470?
Individuals with known allergies to azo dyes Those seeking skincare benefits from colorants
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.