Ingredient review
CI 74260
INCI: CI 74260
A safe, widely used synthetic green pigment that adds color to makeup but offers no skincare benefits.
In plain English
CI 74260 is a synthetic green pigment, also known as Pigment Green 7 or Phthalocyanine Green. It is a man-made colorant that gives a vibrant green hue to cosmetics like eyeshadows, eyeliners, and lipsticks. It does not provide any skincare benefits—its only job is to add color. It is generally considered safe for use on the skin and eyes, but like all pigments, it can cause irritation in very sensitive individuals.
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 74260 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 74260.
- 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 74260 is a synthetic organic pigment from the phthalocyanine family, specifically a chlorinated copper phthalocyanine. It is produced through chemical synthesis and is known for its intense green color and excellent stability to light and heat.
How it works
In a cosmetic product, CI 74260 works purely as a colorant. It is a finely ground powder that is dispersed into the product base (e.g., cream, powder, or liquid) to impart a green color. It does not react with the skin or alter the product's texture or function beyond coloring.
Pros
Vibrant and stable color
CI 74260 produces a strong, true green that resists fading from light and heat, so your makeup stays looking fresh longer.
Widely accepted as safe
Regulatory bodies like the FDA and EU CosIng approve its use in cosmetics, meaning it has been reviewed for safety at typical use levels.
Cons and cautions
No skincare benefit
This ingredient is purely decorative—it adds color but does not hydrate, protect, or improve your skin in any way.
Potential for irritation
While rare, some people with very sensitive skin or allergies may experience redness or itching from synthetic pigments like this one.
Best for
- Anyone looking for green-colored makeup products
- People who want long-lasting, fade-resistant color in their cosmetics
Use caution if
- Individuals with known allergies or extreme sensitivity to synthetic pigments
- Those seeking skincare benefits from their color cosmetics
Usage tips
Safety summary
CI 74260 is considered safe for cosmetic use at typical concentrations. It has low irritation and comedogenic potential. The main risk is for individuals with specific allergies or extreme sensitivity, and inhalation of loose powder should be avoided.
Research notes
Studies on phthalocyanine pigments like CI 74260 focus on their stability and lack of skin penetration. Regulatory reviews (e.g., FDA, SCCS) have found them safe for cosmetic use. No significant human health risks have been identified at current exposure levels.
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 by the U.S. FDA (as a color additive exempt from certification) and listed in the EU CosIng database. Always used within strict concentration limits.
- Common uses
- Eyeshadows, Eyeliners, Lipsticks, Nail polishes
- Environmental note
- As a synthetic pigment, its production involves chemical synthesis and may have environmental impacts. However, it is not known to bioaccumulate or persist in the environment at significant levels.
Good to know
- CI 74260 is also used in printing inks and plastics, but the cosmetic-grade version is purified for safe use on skin.
- It is often listed simply as 'CI 74260' on ingredient labels, so you may not see the common name 'Pigment Green 7'.
Common questions
What is CI 74260 in beauty products?
CI 74260 is a synthetic green pigment, also known as Pigment Green 7 or Phthalocyanine Green. It is a man-made colorant that gives a vibrant green hue to cosmetics like eyeshadows, eyeliners, and lipsticks. It does not provide any skincare benefits—its only job is to add color. It is generally considered safe for use on the skin and eyes, but like all pigments, it can cause irritation in very sensitive individuals.
What does CI 74260 do in a beauty product?
In a cosmetic product, CI 74260 works purely as a colorant. It is a finely ground powder that is dispersed into the product base (e.g., cream, powder, or liquid) to impart a green color. It does not react with the skin or alter the product's texture or function beyond coloring.
Is CI 74260 safe for most people?
CI 74260 is considered safe for cosmetic use at typical concentrations. It has low irritation and comedogenic potential. The main risk is for individuals with specific allergies or extreme sensitivity, and inhalation of loose powder should be avoided.
Who should be careful with CI 74260?
Individuals with known allergies or extreme sensitivity to synthetic 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.