Ingredient review

CI 77231

INCI: CI 77231

CI 77231 is a colorant used for opacity, but it has raised safety concerns in other industries; in cosmetics, it is restricted to low concentrations.

beautyskincarecolorant

In plain English

CI 77231 is a white pigment made from antimony compounds. It's added to makeup like nail polish or eyeshadow to make the color more opaque or to create a matte finish. Because antimony can be toxic in large amounts, cosmetic regulations strictly limit how much can be used, so the tiny amounts in your makeup are generally considered safe for occasional use.

Review score

Safety, usefulness, and evidence

2.5Fair
2.5/ 5

Higher-caution ingredient

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 77231 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 77231.
  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 77231 is the Color Index name for antimony trioxide, a fine white powder used as a pigment and opacifier in cosmetics.

How it works

It scatters light to create a white, opaque appearance, helping other pigments appear more vibrant or covering the skin or nail more completely.

Pros

Effective opacifier

Creates a solid, opaque finish in nail polish and eye shadows, helping colors look true and vibrant.

Low skin irritation

Generally non-irritating to skin at the low concentrations used in cosmetics, making it suitable for most skin types.

Cons and cautions

Toxicity concerns from other uses

Antimony trioxide is classified as a possible carcinogen when inhaled in industrial settings, which raises caution for loose powder cosmetics.

Heavily restricted

Many regions limit its use to very low concentrations, and some brands avoid it entirely due to consumer perception.

Best for

  • Anyone using nail polish or eye makeup occasionally
  • Those looking for opaque color in small amounts

Use caution if

  • People who inhale loose powders regularly (e.g., makeup artists)
  • Anyone with known antimony sensitivity (very rare)

Usage tips

Avoid inhaling loose powder products containing CI 77231
Use pressed or cream formulations to minimize airborne particles

Safety summary

CI 77231 is considered safe in cosmetics at the low concentrations allowed by regulators. The main risk is from inhaling loose powder, not from skin contact. It is not a common irritant or allergen.

Research notes

Studies on antimony trioxide focus on occupational inhalation exposure, not cosmetic use. Cosmetic safety panels (e.g., CIR) have concluded it is safe when formulated to avoid inhalation.

Common label clues

Typical concentration
Typically less than 1% in leave-on products
Regulatory status
Approved in the EU and US at low concentrations (typically ≤1% in leave-on products), but restricted in some countries due to inhalation concerns.
Common uses
Nail polish, Eye makeup, Lip products
Environmental note
Antimony mining can have environmental impacts, but the small amounts used in cosmetics have a negligible overall footprint.

Good to know

  • CI 77231 is not allowed in all countries; check local regulations if you are sensitive to ingredient restrictions.
  • It is often replaced by titanium dioxide in modern 'clean' beauty formulations.

Common questions

What is CI 77231 in beauty products?

CI 77231 is a white pigment made from antimony compounds. It's added to makeup like nail polish or eyeshadow to make the color more opaque or to create a matte finish. Because antimony can be toxic in large amounts, cosmetic regulations strictly limit how much can be used, so the tiny amounts in your makeup are generally considered safe for occasional use.

What does CI 77231 do in a beauty product?

It scatters light to create a white, opaque appearance, helping other pigments appear more vibrant or covering the skin or nail more completely.

Is CI 77231 safe for most people?

CI 77231 is considered safe in cosmetics at the low concentrations allowed by regulators. The main risk is from inhaling loose powder, not from skin contact. It is not a common irritant or allergen.

Who should be careful with CI 77231?

People who inhale loose powders regularly (e.g., makeup artists) Anyone with known antimony sensitivity (very rare)

Research sources

Cosmetic Ingredient Review (CIR) - Antimony TrioxideOpenEuropean Chemicals Agency (ECHA) - Antimony trioxideOpenPubChem - Antimony TrioxideOpen

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.