Ingredient review

D&C Orange No. 4

INCI: CI 15510

A widely used synthetic orange dye that is generally safe in the tiny amounts found in cosmetics, but offers no skincare benefits.

beautyskincarecolorant

In plain English

CI 15510 is a man-made colorant that gives products an orange hue. It's the same kind of dye used in some foods and medications. In skincare and makeup, it's used purely for appearance—it doesn't treat or improve your skin. Because it's used in very small amounts, it's unlikely to cause problems for most people, but those with very sensitive skin or allergies may want to check labels.

Review score

Safety, usefulness, and evidence

3.5Good
3.5/ 5

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
How reviews are scored

Quick decision guide

Useful, but context matters

D&C Orange No. 4 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 D&C Orange No. 4.
  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 15510, also known as D&C Orange No. 4, is a synthetic azo dye that produces an orange color. It is approved for use in cosmetics by the U.S. FDA and other global regulators.

How it works

It works by absorbing and reflecting specific wavelengths of light, creating the perception of an orange color. It does not interact with the skin's biology in any meaningful way.

Pros

Vibrant color

Provides a bright, consistent orange shade that is stable in many product formulations.

Regulatory approval

Approved by the FDA and other global bodies for use in cosmetics, with a long history of safe use at low concentrations.

Cons and cautions

No skin benefit

This ingredient is purely cosmetic—it adds color but does not moisturize, protect, or treat the skin in any way.

Potential allergen

A small percentage of people may experience contact dermatitis or irritation from azo dyes like CI 15510.

Best for

  • Anyone who wants colorful makeup or personal care products
  • People without known sensitivities to synthetic dyes

Use caution if

  • Individuals with known allergies or sensitivities to azo dyes
  • Those seeking only natural or plant-based ingredients

Usage tips

Check the ingredient list if you have sensitive skin or a history of reactions to synthetic dyes.
Patch test a new product containing this dye on a small area of skin before full use.

Safety summary

CI 15510 is considered safe for use in cosmetics at the low concentrations typically used. The main risk is a potential allergic reaction in sensitive individuals, which is rare.

Research notes

Research indicates that CI 15510 has low acute toxicity and is not a skin sensitizer for the general population. However, some studies note that azo dyes can be allergens for a small subset of people.

Common label clues

Typical concentration
Very low, typically less than 1%
Regulatory status
Approved for use in cosmetics in the U.S. (FDA), EU, and many other countries, subject to concentration limits and purity requirements.
Common uses
Lipsticks, Blushes, Shampoos, Soaps, Bath products
Environmental note
As a synthetic azo dye, it is not biodegradable and may contribute to water pollution if not properly treated during manufacturing.

Good to know

  • CI 15510 is also used in some foods and medications, so it's a common additive.
  • The 'CI' stands for Colour Index, an international numbering system for dyes and pigments.

Common questions

What is D&C Orange No. 4 in beauty products?

CI 15510 is a man-made colorant that gives products an orange hue. It's the same kind of dye used in some foods and medications. In skincare and makeup, it's used purely for appearance—it doesn't treat or improve your skin. Because it's used in very small amounts, it's unlikely to cause problems for most people, but those with very sensitive skin or allergies may want to check labels.

What does D&C Orange No. 4 do in a beauty product?

It works by absorbing and reflecting specific wavelengths of light, creating the perception of an orange color. It does not interact with the skin's biology in any meaningful way.

Is D&C Orange No. 4 safe for most people?

CI 15510 is considered safe for use in cosmetics at the low concentrations typically used. The main risk is a potential allergic reaction in sensitive individuals, which is rare.

Who should be careful with D&C Orange No. 4?

Individuals with known allergies or sensitivities to azo dyes Those seeking only natural or plant-based ingredients

Research sources

FDA Color AdditivesOpenCosmetic Ingredient Review (CIR) Safety AssessmentOpenPubChem - CI 15510Open

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.