Ingredient review

CI 60730

INCI: CI 60730

CI 60730 is a safe synthetic violet dye for most people, but those with sensitive skin may want to patch test.

beautyskincarecolorant

In plain English

CI 60730 is a man-made violet color that is added to cosmetics to make them look pretty. It's like food coloring for your soap or shampoo. It doesn't do anything for your skin except add color, and it's generally considered safe in the tiny amounts used.

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 60730 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 60730.
  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 60730 is a synthetic organic dye from the anthraquinone family, specifically listed as Ext. D&C Violet No. 2 in the US. It is a violet powder that dissolves in water and is used to give a purple or violet tint to cosmetic products.

How it works

In a cosmetic product, CI 60730 simply absorbs and reflects light in the violet spectrum, making the product appear that color. It does not interact with the skin or change the formula's function; it is purely aesthetic.

Pros

Consistent color

Provides a stable, predictable violet shade that doesn't fade easily in the bottle.

Low irritation for most

At typical use levels, it is well-tolerated by the majority of skin types.

Cons and cautions

No skincare benefit

Adds only color, not hydration, protection, or any active benefit to the skin.

Potential for staining

Can leave temporary violet stains on skin, clothing, or bathroom surfaces, especially in high concentrations.

Best for

  • Anyone who enjoys colored bath products or soaps
  • People looking for a stable, consistent violet shade in their cosmetics

Use caution if

  • Individuals with known allergies to synthetic dyes
  • Those with very sensitive or reactive skin who prefer to avoid all colorants

Usage tips

Patch test a new product containing CI 60730 on a small area of skin before full use.
Rinse thoroughly after use to minimize any temporary staining on skin.

Safety summary

CI 60730 is considered safe for use in cosmetics at typical concentrations by major regulatory bodies. Rare allergic reactions or irritation can occur, especially in sensitive individuals. It is not a known carcinogen or endocrine disruptor.

Research notes

Safety assessments by the Cosmetic Ingredient Review (CIR) panel and the EU Scientific Committee on Consumer Safety (SCCS) have concluded that CI 60730 is safe for use in rinse-off and some leave-on products at current levels. No significant new research has raised concerns.

Common label clues

Typical concentration
Typically less than 1%
Regulatory status
Approved as a color additive for cosmetics in the US (subject to FDA restrictions) and in the EU (listed in Annex IV). Not permitted for use in products intended for the lip area or mucous membranes.
Common uses
Soaps, Shampoos, Bath products, Eye shadows
Environmental note
As a synthetic dye, it may not be readily biodegradable. Proper disposal of wastewater from manufacturing is important to minimize environmental impact.

Good to know

  • CI 60730 is approved for use in cosmetics in the EU, US, and many other countries, but is restricted in some leave-on products near the eyes.
  • The 'Ext.' in Ext. D&C Violet No. 2 means it is approved for external use only (not on lips or mucous membranes).

Common questions

What is CI 60730 in beauty products?

CI 60730 is a man-made violet color that is added to cosmetics to make them look pretty. It's like food coloring for your soap or shampoo. It doesn't do anything for your skin except add color, and it's generally considered safe in the tiny amounts used.

What does CI 60730 do in a beauty product?

In a cosmetic product, CI 60730 simply absorbs and reflects light in the violet spectrum, making the product appear that color. It does not interact with the skin or change the formula's function; it is purely aesthetic.

Is CI 60730 safe for most people?

CI 60730 is considered safe for use in cosmetics at typical concentrations by major regulatory bodies. Rare allergic reactions or irritation can occur, especially in sensitive individuals. It is not a known carcinogen or endocrine disruptor.

Who should be careful with CI 60730?

Individuals with known allergies to synthetic dyes Those with very sensitive or reactive skin who prefer to avoid all colorants

Research sources

Cosmetic Ingredient Review (CIR) - Safety Assessment of CI 60730OpenFDA - Color Additive Status ListOpenEU CosIng Database - CI 60730Open

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.