Ingredient review

CI 74100

INCI: CI 74100

CI 74100 is a safe, widely used synthetic green pigment in color cosmetics, but offers no skincare benefits.

beautyskincarecolorant

In plain English

CI 74100 is a man-made green pigment that gives color to makeup products like eyeshadow, eyeliner, and lipstick. It doesn't treat or improve your skin—it's purely for color. Regulatory bodies consider it safe for use in cosmetics at typical levels, but it may cause irritation in very sensitive individuals.

Review score

Safety, usefulness, and evidence

3.0Fair
3.0/ 5

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
How reviews are scored

Quick decision guide

Read the cautions before using

CI 74100 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 74100.
  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 74100 is a synthetic organic pigment classified as a nitroso dye. It is produced through chemical synthesis and is used to impart a green color to cosmetic formulations.

How it works

In a cosmetic product, CI 74100 works by absorbing and reflecting specific wavelengths of light, which our eyes perceive as green. It is dispersed evenly throughout the product base to provide consistent color payoff.

Pros

Vibrant color

Provides a bright, consistent green shade that stays true in various lighting conditions.

Low irritation risk

Generally well-tolerated by most skin types, with a low likelihood of causing breakouts or redness.

Cons and cautions

No skincare benefit

CI 74100 is purely a colorant and does not hydrate, soothe, or protect the skin in any way.

Synthetic origin

As a man-made pigment, it may not appeal to consumers seeking natural or clean beauty products.

Best for

  • Anyone looking for green color in their makeup
  • Those who want a stable, long-lasting pigment

Use caution if

  • Individuals with known allergies to synthetic colorants
  • Those seeking skincare benefits from their color cosmetics

Usage tips

Check the ingredient list if you have sensitive skin or a history of reactions to synthetic dyes.
Store color cosmetics in a cool, dry place to maintain pigment stability.
Patch test a new product containing CI 74100 on a small area of skin before full use.

Safety summary

CI 74100 is considered safe for use in cosmetics at typical concentrations. It has low irritation and comedogenic potential, though rare allergic reactions can occur in sensitive individuals.

Research notes

Limited independent research on CI 74100 specifically, but it is part of a class of colorants that have been reviewed by the Cosmetic Ingredient Review (CIR) panel and deemed safe for cosmetic use.

Common label clues

Typical concentration
Typically used at very low concentrations (under 1%) to achieve desired color
Regulatory status
Approved for use in cosmetics in the US (FDA) and EU (EC) with no concentration restrictions for external use.
Common uses
Eyeshadows, Eyeliners, Lipsticks, Nail polishes
Environmental note
As a synthetic pigment, its production involves chemical processes that may have environmental impacts, but it is not known to be bioaccumulative.

Good to know

  • CI 74100 is also known as Pigment Green 8 and is approved for use in cosmetics by the FDA and EU.
  • It is often combined with other pigments to create custom shades like teal or olive.

Common questions

What is CI 74100 in beauty products?

CI 74100 is a man-made green pigment that gives color to makeup products like eyeshadow, eyeliner, and lipstick. It doesn't treat or improve your skin—it's purely for color. Regulatory bodies consider it safe for use in cosmetics at typical levels, but it may cause irritation in very sensitive individuals.

What does CI 74100 do in a beauty product?

In a cosmetic product, CI 74100 works by absorbing and reflecting specific wavelengths of light, which our eyes perceive as green. It is dispersed evenly throughout the product base to provide consistent color payoff.

Is CI 74100 safe for most people?

CI 74100 is considered safe for use in cosmetics at typical concentrations. It has low irritation and comedogenic potential, though rare allergic reactions can occur in sensitive individuals.

Who should be careful with CI 74100?

Individuals with known allergies to synthetic colorants Those seeking skincare benefits from their color cosmetics

Research sources

Cosmetic Ingredient Review (CIR) - Safety Assessment of Color AdditivesOpenFDA - Color Additives in CosmeticsOpenPubChem - CI 74100Open

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.