Ingredient review
CI 75135
INCI: CI 75135
CI 75135 is a widely used synthetic red pigment that adds vibrant color to makeup with a good safety profile for most people.
In plain English
CI 75135 is a man-made red pigment that gives lipsticks, blushes, and eyeshadows their bright red or pink color. It's a 'lake' pigment, meaning it's made by combining a dye with a metal salt to make it insoluble in water, so it stays put on your skin without bleeding or fading quickly. Think of it like a tiny colored particle that sits on the surface of your skin or lips, providing long-lasting color.
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 75135 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 75135.
- 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 75135 is a synthetic organic pigment classified as a D&C Red No. 30 Lake. It is produced by precipitating a red dye (typically a xanthene dye) onto an aluminum or other metal hydroxide substrate, creating a stable, insoluble powder that imparts color to cosmetic products.
How it works
In a cosmetic product, CI 75135 works by physically coating the skin or hair with tiny colored particles. Because it is insoluble in water and oils, it resists smudging and fading, providing consistent color throughout wear. It is typically dispersed in the product's base (like a lipstick wax or powder) and adheres to the application surface.
Pros
Vibrant, long-lasting color
CI 75135 delivers intense red or pink shades that resist fading and bleeding, making it ideal for lipsticks and blushes that need to stay put through eating and drinking.
Low irritation potential
Compared to some other red pigments, CI 75135 has a low irritation risk and is generally well-tolerated by most skin types, including sensitive skin.
Cons and cautions
Potential allergen for some
A small percentage of people may experience allergic contact dermatitis or irritation from synthetic lake pigments, especially if used repeatedly on the lips or around the eyes.
Not natural or biodegradable
As a synthetic pigment, CI 75135 is not derived from natural sources and may not be biodegradable, which can be a concern for environmentally conscious consumers.
Best for
- Anyone looking for a bold red or pink color in lipsticks or blushes
- People with normal to oily skin who want long-lasting color
Use caution if
- Individuals with known allergies to synthetic colorants or lakes
- Those seeking completely natural or plant-based cosmetics
Usage tips
Safety summary
CI 75135 is considered safe for use in cosmetics at typical concentrations, with a low risk of irritation and sensitization for most people. However, individuals with known allergies to synthetic colorants should avoid it. Regulatory bodies like the FDA and EU CosIng have approved it for cosmetic use.
Research notes
Research on CI 75135 primarily focuses on its safety as a cosmetic colorant. Studies indicate low acute toxicity and minimal skin irritation. It is not considered a carcinogen or reproductive toxin. Allergic reactions are rare but documented.
Common label clues
- Typical concentration
- Typically 0.1% to 5% depending on desired color intensity
- Regulatory status
- Approved for use in cosmetics in the US (FDA) and EU (as a listed colorant). Some restrictions apply for eye-area use in certain regions.
- Common uses
- Lipsticks, Blushes, Eyeshadows, Nail polishes
- Environmental note
- CI 75135 is a synthetic pigment that does not readily biodegrade. Its production involves chemical synthesis and metal salts, which may have environmental impacts if not properly managed.
Good to know
- CI 75135 is also known as D&C Red No. 30 Lake in the US and is approved for use in cosmetics by the FDA.
- The 'Lake' designation means the pigment is insoluble, which helps it stay on the skin without migrating.
Common questions
What is CI 75135 in beauty products?
CI 75135 is a man-made red pigment that gives lipsticks, blushes, and eyeshadows their bright red or pink color. It's a 'lake' pigment, meaning it's made by combining a dye with a metal salt to make it insoluble in water, so it stays put on your skin without bleeding or fading quickly. Think of it like a tiny colored particle that sits on the surface of your skin or lips, providing long-lasting color.
What does CI 75135 do in a beauty product?
In a cosmetic product, CI 75135 works by physically coating the skin or hair with tiny colored particles. Because it is insoluble in water and oils, it resists smudging and fading, providing consistent color throughout wear. It is typically dispersed in the product's base (like a lipstick wax or powder) and adheres to the application surface.
Is CI 75135 safe for most people?
CI 75135 is considered safe for use in cosmetics at typical concentrations, with a low risk of irritation and sensitization for most people. However, individuals with known allergies to synthetic colorants should avoid it. Regulatory bodies like the FDA and EU CosIng have approved it for cosmetic use.
Who should be careful with CI 75135?
Individuals with known allergies to synthetic colorants or lakes Those seeking completely natural or plant-based 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.