Ingredient review
CI 77400
INCI: CI 77400
CI 77400 is a safe, widely used colorant that adds red or copper hues to makeup, but it offers no skincare benefits and may cause irritation in very sensitive individuals.
In plain English
CI 77400 is a pigment that gives makeup products like lipstick and eyeshadow their red or copper color. It is made from copper compounds and is considered safe for cosmetic use by regulators. It does not hydrate, protect, or treat the skin—it is purely for color. If you have very sensitive skin or a known copper allergy, you may want to patch test products containing this ingredient.
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 77400 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 77400.
- 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 77400 is a color additive listed in the Color Index (CI) system, specifically referring to copper-based pigments such as copper powder or copper oxide. It is used to impart red, pink, or metallic copper shades in cosmetics.
How it works
In a cosmetic product, CI 77400 sits on the surface of the skin or nail, reflecting light to create a visible color. It does not penetrate the skin or interact with biological processes; its role is purely aesthetic.
Pros
Vibrant color
CI 77400 delivers rich red or copper tones that stay true on the skin, making it a favorite for bold makeup looks.
Regulatory approval
It is approved by the FDA and EU for use in cosmetics, giving users confidence in its safety when used as intended.
Cons and cautions
No skin benefits
Unlike active ingredients like niacinamide or hyaluronic acid, CI 77400 does not hydrate, brighten, or protect the skin.
Potential allergen
Copper compounds can cause allergic reactions in sensitive individuals, leading to redness or irritation upon contact.
Best for
- Anyone looking for red or copper makeup shades
- People who want long-lasting color in lipsticks or eyeshadows
Use caution if
- Individuals with a known copper allergy or sensitivity
- Those seeking skincare benefits from their color cosmetics
Usage tips
Safety summary
CI 77400 is considered safe for cosmetic use by major regulators when used as directed. The main risk is allergic reaction in copper-sensitive individuals, which is rare. It is non-comedogenic and low-irritation for most people.
Research notes
Research on CI 77400 focuses on its safety as a colorant. Studies indicate low acute toxicity and minimal skin penetration, supporting its safe use in cosmetics. No peer-reviewed evidence suggests significant health risks at typical exposure levels.
Common label clues
- Typical concentration
- Typically used at low concentrations (0.1% to 5%) to achieve desired color
- Regulatory status
- Approved for cosmetic use in the US (FDA) and EU (EC) as a color additive, subject to purity and concentration limits.
- Common uses
- Lipsticks, Eyeshadows, Blushes, Nail polishes
- Environmental note
- Copper mining and processing can have environmental impacts, but the small amounts used in cosmetics are generally not considered a major concern.
Good to know
- CI 77400 is often listed alongside other CI numbers in ingredient labels; it is not a single chemical but a category of copper-based pigments.
- This pigment is also used in some nail polishes and can cause temporary staining on nails if not used with a base coat.
Common questions
What is CI 77400 in beauty products?
CI 77400 is a pigment that gives makeup products like lipstick and eyeshadow their red or copper color. It is made from copper compounds and is considered safe for cosmetic use by regulators. It does not hydrate, protect, or treat the skin—it is purely for color. If you have very sensitive skin or a known copper allergy, you may want to patch test products containing this ingredient.
What does CI 77400 do in a beauty product?
In a cosmetic product, CI 77400 sits on the surface of the skin or nail, reflecting light to create a visible color. It does not penetrate the skin or interact with biological processes; its role is purely aesthetic.
Is CI 77400 safe for most people?
CI 77400 is considered safe for cosmetic use by major regulators when used as directed. The main risk is allergic reaction in copper-sensitive individuals, which is rare. It is non-comedogenic and low-irritation for most people.
Who should be careful with CI 77400?
Individuals with a known copper allergy or sensitivity 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.