Ingredient review
CI 44090
INCI: CI 44090
A widely used synthetic blue dye that is generally safe in cosmetics at low levels, but some people may prefer to avoid synthetic colors.
In plain English
CI 44090 is a blue dye made in a lab, not from plants or minerals. It's added to products like shampoo, soap, and lotion to give them a blue or greenish-blue color. It's very common and has been used for decades. While it's considered safe in tiny amounts, some people choose to avoid synthetic dyes due to personal preference or sensitivity concerns.
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
CI 44090 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 44090.
- 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 44090 is a synthetic organic dye from the triphenylmethane family. It is also known as FD&C Blue No. 1 in the US and E133 in the EU. It is a water-soluble powder that produces a bright blue color.
How it works
It works by absorbing and reflecting specific wavelengths of light, making the product appear blue. It does not change the formula's function or skin feel—only its appearance.
Pros
Vibrant and stable color
CI 44090 produces a bright, consistent blue that doesn't fade easily in water-based products, so your shampoo or lotion looks appealing every time.
Low irritation risk for most
At the tiny concentrations used in cosmetics, it rarely causes problems for the majority of users, making it a safe choice for mass-market products.
Cons and cautions
Synthetic origin
It's made from petroleum-derived ingredients, which may not align with a 'clean' or natural beauty philosophy.
Potential allergen for some
A small number of people experience contact dermatitis or hives from FD&C dyes, so patch testing is wise if you have sensitive skin.
Best for
- Anyone who wants a blue-tinted product
- People without known sensitivities to synthetic dyes
Use caution if
- Individuals with known allergies or sensitivities to FD&C dyes
- Those seeking a completely natural or synthetic-free routine
Usage tips
Safety summary
CI 44090 is considered safe for use in cosmetics at typical concentrations by major regulatory bodies including the FDA and the European Commission. Rare allergic reactions have been reported, but overall risk is low.
Research notes
Extensive safety reviews by the Cosmetic Ingredient Review (CIR) panel and the Joint FAO/WHO Expert Committee on Food Additives (JECFA) have concluded that FD&C Blue No. 1 is safe for use in cosmetics and food at current levels.
Common label clues
- Typical concentration
- Very low, often less than 0.1%
- Regulatory status
- Approved for use in cosmetics in the US (FD&C Blue No. 1), EU (E133), and many other countries, subject to purity and concentration limits.
- Common uses
- Shampoos, Soaps, Lotions, Makeup, Bath products
- Environmental note
- Synthetic dyes can persist in water systems; however, cosmetic use is typically at very low levels and wastewater treatment can reduce impact.
Good to know
- CI 44090 is the same dye used in many blue candies and drinks.
- It is approved for use in cosmetics by the FDA and EU regulators.
Common questions
What is CI 44090 in beauty products?
CI 44090 is a blue dye made in a lab, not from plants or minerals. It's added to products like shampoo, soap, and lotion to give them a blue or greenish-blue color. It's very common and has been used for decades. While it's considered safe in tiny amounts, some people choose to avoid synthetic dyes due to personal preference or sensitivity concerns.
What does CI 44090 do in a beauty product?
It works by absorbing and reflecting specific wavelengths of light, making the product appear blue. It does not change the formula's function or skin feel—only its appearance.
Is CI 44090 safe for most people?
CI 44090 is considered safe for use in cosmetics at typical concentrations by major regulatory bodies including the FDA and the European Commission. Rare allergic reactions have been reported, but overall risk is low.
Who should be careful with CI 44090?
Individuals with known allergies or sensitivities to FD&C dyes Those seeking a completely natural or synthetic-free routine
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.