Ingredient review
CI 74180
INCI: CI 74180
CI 74180 is a safe, widely used synthetic dye that adds red color to cosmetics, but it offers no skincare benefits.
In plain English
CI 74180 is a man-made dye that gives a red or orange-red color to makeup and beauty products. It doesn't treat or improve your skin—it's purely for appearance. Think of it like food coloring for your lipstick or blush. Regulatory bodies consider it safe for use in cosmetics at typical levels, but if you have very sensitive skin or prefer to avoid synthetic ingredients, you might choose products without it.
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 74180 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 74180.
- 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 74180 is a synthetic azo dye, specifically a disodium salt of a sulfonated azo compound. It is also known as D&C Red No. 17 in the US and Direct Red 23 in other contexts. It is manufactured through chemical synthesis and is not found in nature.
How it works
In a cosmetic product, CI 74180 works by absorbing and reflecting specific wavelengths of visible light, which our eyes perceive as a red or orange-red color. It is mixed into the product base (like a lipstick wax or powder) to impart a uniform tint. It does not interact with the skin's biology or provide any active benefit.
Pros
Vibrant color payoff
Delivers a strong, consistent red hue that stays true in various product formulations, from lipsticks to eyeshadows.
Regulatory approval
Approved for cosmetic use by major regulatory bodies like the FDA and EU Commission, with a long history of safe use at low concentrations.
Cons and cautions
No skin benefits
This ingredient is purely decorative—it does not hydrate, protect, or improve the skin in any way.
Potential allergen for some
Though rare, synthetic azo dyes can trigger contact dermatitis or allergic reactions in very sensitive individuals.
Best for
- Anyone who wants a red or orange-red tint in their makeup
- People without known sensitivities to synthetic dyes
Use caution if
- Individuals with a known allergy or sensitivity to azo dyes or synthetic colorants
Usage tips
Safety summary
CI 74180 is considered safe for cosmetic use at typical concentrations by major regulatory agencies. Rare allergic reactions have been reported, but it is not a common irritant or sensitizer. It is not known to be carcinogenic or toxic in the amounts used in personal care products.
Research notes
Research on CI 74180 focuses on its safety as a cosmetic colorant. Studies have shown low acute toxicity and no significant skin irritation or sensitization in patch tests. The Cosmetic Ingredient Review (CIR) panel has concluded it is safe as used. No peer-reviewed studies indicate health risks from topical application at regulated levels.
Common label clues
- Typical concentration
- Typically used at very low concentrations, often less than 1%
- Regulatory status
- Approved for use in cosmetics in the US (as D&C Red No. 17) and in the EU (under Annex IV of the Cosmetics Regulation). Usage is limited to certain product categories and maximum concentrations.
- Common uses
- Lipsticks, Blushes, Eye shadows, Nail polishes, Soaps
- Environmental note
- As a synthetic azo dye, CI 74180 is not biodegradable and may persist in water systems if not properly filtered during manufacturing. However, cosmetic use contributes minimal environmental impact compared to industrial dye applications.
Good to know
- CI 74180 is also used in some food packaging and textiles, but cosmetic-grade material is strictly regulated for purity.
- It is often listed as D&C Red No. 17 on US labels.
Common questions
What is CI 74180 in beauty products?
CI 74180 is a man-made dye that gives a red or orange-red color to makeup and beauty products. It doesn't treat or improve your skin—it's purely for appearance. Think of it like food coloring for your lipstick or blush. Regulatory bodies consider it safe for use in cosmetics at typical levels, but if you have very sensitive skin or prefer to avoid synthetic ingredients, you might choose products without it.
What does CI 74180 do in a beauty product?
In a cosmetic product, CI 74180 works by absorbing and reflecting specific wavelengths of visible light, which our eyes perceive as a red or orange-red color. It is mixed into the product base (like a lipstick wax or powder) to impart a uniform tint. It does not interact with the skin's biology or provide any active benefit.
Is CI 74180 safe for most people?
CI 74180 is considered safe for cosmetic use at typical concentrations by major regulatory agencies. Rare allergic reactions have been reported, but it is not a common irritant or sensitizer. It is not known to be carcinogenic or toxic in the amounts used in personal care products.
Who should be careful with CI 74180?
Individuals with a known allergy or sensitivity to azo dyes or synthetic colorants
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.