Ingredient review
CI 69825
INCI: CI 69825
CI 69825 is a widely used red pigment that adds color to makeup but offers no skincare benefits.
In plain English
CI 69825 is a synthetic red pigment that gives color to makeup products like lipstick, blush, and eyeshadow. It is not absorbed into the skin and works purely as a decorative colorant. Think of it like a tiny, colored particle that sits on the surface of your skin or lips to create a red or pink shade. It does not moisturize, treat, or protect your skin.
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 69825 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 69825.
- 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 69825 is a synthetic organic pigment from the anthraquinone family, also known as Vat Red 1 or D&C Red No. 30. It is manufactured through chemical synthesis and is approved for use in cosmetics in many regions.
How it works
In a cosmetic product, CI 69825 is dispersed as fine particles that reflect and absorb light to produce a red or pink color. It does not react with the skin; instead, it physically coats the surface to provide visual color.
Pros
Vibrant color payoff
CI 69825 delivers a strong, true red or pink shade that stays consistent across batches, making it reliable for bold makeup looks.
Good stability
This pigment resists fading from light and heat, so your lipstick or blush keeps its color longer during wear and storage.
Cons and cautions
No skincare benefit
CI 69825 is purely decorative—it does not hydrate, soothe, or protect the skin, so it adds no functional value to a skincare routine.
Potential for staining
Because it is a strong pigment, it can leave temporary stains on clothing, towels, or skin if not removed promptly.
Best for
- Anyone looking for a bold red or pink color in makeup
- People who prefer synthetic colorants over natural ones for consistency
Use caution if
- Those with known sensitivities to synthetic colorants (rare)
- Anyone seeking skincare benefits from their makeup
Usage tips
Safety summary
CI 69825 is considered safe for cosmetic use at typical concentrations. It is not absorbed through the skin and has a low irritation and comedogenic risk. However, like all colorants, it should be used within regulated limits to avoid contamination with impurities.
Research notes
Studies on CI 69825 focus on its stability and safety as a colorant. The Cosmetic Ingredient Review (CIR) panel has evaluated similar anthraquinone pigments and found them safe for topical use. No significant human health risks have been identified at cosmetic exposure levels.
Common label clues
- Typical concentration
- Typically used at 0.1% to 5% depending on desired color intensity
- Regulatory status
- Approved for use in cosmetics in the U.S. (FDA) and EU (as a listed colorant). Subject to purity and usage limits per region.
- Common uses
- Lipsticks, Blushes, Eye shadows, Nail polishes, Soaps
- Environmental note
- As a synthetic pigment, CI 69825 is not biodegradable and may persist in water systems if not filtered out during wastewater treatment.
Good to know
- CI 69825 is also used in some food packaging and industrial inks, but cosmetic-grade versions are purified for safety.
- It is often listed as D&C Red No. 30 in the U.S. and is approved by the FDA for use in cosmetics.
Common questions
What is CI 69825 in beauty products?
CI 69825 is a synthetic red pigment that gives color to makeup products like lipstick, blush, and eyeshadow. It is not absorbed into the skin and works purely as a decorative colorant. Think of it like a tiny, colored particle that sits on the surface of your skin or lips to create a red or pink shade. It does not moisturize, treat, or protect your skin.
What does CI 69825 do in a beauty product?
In a cosmetic product, CI 69825 is dispersed as fine particles that reflect and absorb light to produce a red or pink color. It does not react with the skin; instead, it physically coats the surface to provide visual color.
Is CI 69825 safe for most people?
CI 69825 is considered safe for cosmetic use at typical concentrations. It is not absorbed through the skin and has a low irritation and comedogenic risk. However, like all colorants, it should be used within regulated limits to avoid contamination with impurities.
Who should be careful with CI 69825?
Those with known sensitivities to synthetic colorants (rare) Anyone seeking skincare benefits from their makeup
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.