Ingredient review
D&C Orange 5
INCI: CI 45370
A safe, widely used synthetic colorant that adds orange tones to makeup, but offers no skincare benefits.
In plain English
CI 45370 is a synthetic dye that gives a bright orange color to cosmetics like lipstick and blush. It's made in a lab, not from plants or minerals. In small amounts, it's considered safe for use on the skin and lips, but it doesn't moisturize, protect, or treat the skin in any way—it's purely for 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
D&C Orange 5 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 D&C Orange 5.
- 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 45370 is a synthetic organic dye from the xanthene family, also known as D&C Orange No. 5. It's approved for use in cosmetics in many countries, including the US and EU, and is commonly used to create warm orange, coral, and peach shades.
How it works
It works by absorbing and reflecting specific wavelengths of light, giving the product a visible orange color. When applied to the skin or lips, it deposits a thin layer of color that can be blended with other pigments for different shades.
Pros
Vibrant color payoff
Delivers a bright, consistent orange hue that stays true in various lighting conditions, ideal for bold lip and cheek looks.
Formulation stability
Resists fading and chemical breakdown, so your makeup keeps its color longer on the shelf and on your skin.
Cons and cautions
No skin benefits
This ingredient is purely cosmetic—it adds color but does not hydrate, soothe, or protect the skin in any way.
Potential for irritation
Though rare, some people may experience redness or itching, especially on sensitive lips or around the eyes.
Best for
- Anyone looking for a bright orange or coral makeup shade
- People who want consistent, fade-resistant color in their cosmetics
Use caution if
- Those with known allergies to synthetic dyes or xanthene compounds
- Individuals seeking only natural or plant-based colorants
Usage tips
Safety summary
CI 45370 is considered safe for use in cosmetics at regulated levels. The FDA and EU CosIng database have reviewed it and set limits to ensure consumer safety. However, like all color additives, it can cause allergic reactions in a small number of sensitive individuals.
Research notes
Studies on CI 45370 focus on its safety as a color additive. The Cosmetic Ingredient Review (CIR) panel has evaluated it and found it safe for use in cosmetics when formulated to be non-irritating. No peer-reviewed evidence supports any skincare benefit beyond coloration.
Common label clues
- Typical concentration
- Typically used at very low levels, often under 1%
- Regulatory status
- Approved for use in cosmetics in the US (FDA) and EU (as CI 45370) with restrictions on maximum concentration and allowed product types. Not approved for use in products intended for the eye area in some regions.
- Common uses
- Lipsticks, Blushes, Nail polishes, Soaps, Bath products
- Environmental note
- As a synthetic dye, it is not biodegradable and may accumulate in water systems if not properly filtered during manufacturing. Some brands are moving toward natural alternatives to reduce environmental impact.
Good to know
- CI 45370 is the same as D&C Orange No. 5 in the US and is also listed as Acid Orange 11 in some international markets.
- It is not water-soluble, so it works best in oil-based or wax-based formulas like lipsticks and balms.
Common questions
What is D&C Orange 5 in beauty products?
CI 45370 is a synthetic dye that gives a bright orange color to cosmetics like lipstick and blush. It's made in a lab, not from plants or minerals. In small amounts, it's considered safe for use on the skin and lips, but it doesn't moisturize, protect, or treat the skin in any way—it's purely for color.
What does D&C Orange 5 do in a beauty product?
It works by absorbing and reflecting specific wavelengths of light, giving the product a visible orange color. When applied to the skin or lips, it deposits a thin layer of color that can be blended with other pigments for different shades.
Is D&C Orange 5 safe for most people?
CI 45370 is considered safe for use in cosmetics at regulated levels. The FDA and EU CosIng database have reviewed it and set limits to ensure consumer safety. However, like all color additives, it can cause allergic reactions in a small number of sensitive individuals.
Who should be careful with D&C Orange 5?
Those with known allergies to synthetic dyes or xanthene compounds Individuals seeking only natural or plant-based 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.