Ingredient review
CI 71105
INCI: CI 71105
CI 71105 is a safe, widely used blue pigment in cosmetics, but it offers no skincare benefits beyond color.
In plain English
CI 71105 is a synthetic blue pigment that gives color to makeup products like eyeliners, mascaras, and eyeshadows. It is not a skincare ingredient and does not treat or improve skin. It is considered safe for use in cosmetics at regulated levels, but it may cause irritation in very sensitive individuals or if used near the eyes improperly.
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 71105 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 71105.
- 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 71105 is a synthetic inorganic pigment, specifically a ferric ferrocyanide complex, that provides a blue color in cosmetics.
How it works
It works by reflecting and absorbing certain wavelengths of light, creating a blue hue. It is chemically stable and does not react with other ingredients in typical cosmetic formulations.
Pros
Vibrant color payoff
Provides a rich, stable blue hue that doesn't fade quickly in typical cosmetic formulations.
Low irritation risk
Generally well-tolerated by most skin types, with a low rate of allergic reactions compared to some organic dyes.
Cons and cautions
No skincare benefits
This ingredient is purely a colorant and does not moisturize, protect, or improve skin health.
Potential for eye irritation
If used in eye-area products, improper formulation or contamination can lead to stinging or irritation.
Best for
- Anyone looking for blue color in makeup
- People with normal to oily skin (safe for most skin types)
Use caution if
- Individuals with known sensitivity to ferric ferrocyanide or similar pigments
- Those seeking skincare benefits from their color cosmetics
Usage tips
Safety summary
CI 71105 is considered safe for use in cosmetics at typical concentrations. It has low acute toxicity and is not a known carcinogen or reproductive toxin. However, it can cause mild irritation in sensitive individuals, especially in eye-area products.
Research notes
Research on CI 71105 is limited to safety assessments by regulatory bodies. The Cosmetic Ingredient Review (CIR) panel has evaluated similar ferric ferrocyanide pigments and found them safe for cosmetic use when formulated properly.
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) and EU (CosIng) with no specific concentration limits, but must comply with general safety requirements for color additives.
- Common uses
- Eyeliners, Mascaras, Eye shadows, Nail polishes, Lip products
- Environmental note
- As a synthetic pigment, its production involves chemical synthesis, which may have environmental impacts. It is not biodegradable.
Good to know
- CI 71105 is also known as Ferric Ferrocyanide and is listed under the Color Index system.
- It is approved for use in cosmetics in the EU, US, and many other regions, but concentrations are regulated.
Common questions
What is CI 71105 in beauty products?
CI 71105 is a synthetic blue pigment that gives color to makeup products like eyeliners, mascaras, and eyeshadows. It is not a skincare ingredient and does not treat or improve skin. It is considered safe for use in cosmetics at regulated levels, but it may cause irritation in very sensitive individuals or if used near the eyes improperly.
What does CI 71105 do in a beauty product?
It works by reflecting and absorbing certain wavelengths of light, creating a blue hue. It is chemically stable and does not react with other ingredients in typical cosmetic formulations.
Is CI 71105 safe for most people?
CI 71105 is considered safe for use in cosmetics at typical concentrations. It has low acute toxicity and is not a known carcinogen or reproductive toxin. However, it can cause mild irritation in sensitive individuals, especially in eye-area products.
Who should be careful with CI 71105?
Individuals with known sensitivity to ferric ferrocyanide or similar pigments Those seeking skincare benefits from their color cosmetics
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.