Ingredient review
D&C Orange No. 11
INCI: CI 11725
CI 11725 is a synthetic orange pigment approved for use in cosmetics, but it may cause sensitivity in some individuals.
In plain English
CI 11725 is a man-made colorant that gives cosmetics an orange tint. It's commonly found in makeup products like lipstick and eyeshadow. While generally considered safe in small amounts, it can occasionally irritate very sensitive skin.
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 No. 11 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 No. 11.
- 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 11725 is a synthetic organic pigment belonging to the monoazo class of colorants. It is produced through chemical synthesis and is used to impart an orange color to cosmetic products.
How it works
In a cosmetic product, CI 11725 works by absorbing and reflecting specific wavelengths of visible light, resulting in an orange appearance. It is typically dispersed in the product's base (like a lipstick or cream) and remains on the skin's surface without penetrating.
Pros
Vibrant color payoff
CI 11725 delivers a bright, consistent orange shade that stays true in various product formulations.
Regulatory approval
It is approved by the FDA for use in cosmetics (as D&C Orange No. 11) and by the EU, giving users confidence in its safety at allowed levels.
Cons and cautions
Potential for irritation
Some people with sensitive skin may experience redness or stinging when using products containing this colorant, especially around the eyes or lips.
Synthetic origin
Being a synthetic pigment, it may not be suitable for those who prefer naturally derived ingredients or 'clean' beauty formulations.
Best for
- People who enjoy colorful makeup
- Those without known sensitivity to synthetic colorants
Use caution if
- Individuals with very sensitive or reactive skin
- Those seeking exclusively natural or organic cosmetics
Usage tips
Safety summary
CI 11725 is considered safe for use in cosmetics at regulated concentrations. However, it may cause mild irritation in sensitive individuals. No significant systemic toxicity has been reported from topical use.
Research notes
Research on CI 11725 is limited, but it is included in safety assessments by the Cosmetic Ingredient Review (CIR) panel and is generally recognized as safe for cosmetic use at low concentrations.
Common label clues
- Typical concentration
- Typically used at very low levels, often less than 1%
- Regulatory status
- Approved for use in cosmetics in the US (FDA) and EU (CosIng) with concentration limits for certain product types.
- Common uses
- Lipsticks, Blushes, Eyeshadows, Nail polishes
- Environmental note
- As a synthetic pigment, its production involves chemical synthesis which may have environmental impacts. It is not biodegradable.
Good to know
- CI 11725 is also known as D&C Orange No. 11 in the US and is listed under the EU CosIng database.
- It is not water-soluble and is typically used in oil-based or wax-based formulations.
Common questions
What is D&C Orange No. 11 in beauty products?
CI 11725 is a man-made colorant that gives cosmetics an orange tint. It's commonly found in makeup products like lipstick and eyeshadow. While generally considered safe in small amounts, it can occasionally irritate very sensitive skin.
What does D&C Orange No. 11 do in a beauty product?
In a cosmetic product, CI 11725 works by absorbing and reflecting specific wavelengths of visible light, resulting in an orange appearance. It is typically dispersed in the product's base (like a lipstick or cream) and remains on the skin's surface without penetrating.
Is D&C Orange No. 11 safe for most people?
CI 11725 is considered safe for use in cosmetics at regulated concentrations. However, it may cause mild irritation in sensitive individuals. No significant systemic toxicity has been reported from topical use.
Who should be careful with D&C Orange No. 11?
Individuals with very sensitive or reactive skin Those seeking exclusively natural or organic 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.