Ingredient review
D&C Red No. 36
INCI: CI 12085
A widely used synthetic red pigment that is generally safe in cosmetics but offers no skincare benefits beyond color.
In plain English
CI 12085 is a synthetic red pigment, also known as D&C Red No. 36. It's added to makeup and other beauty products to give them a red or pink color. Think of it like a food coloring for your cosmetics — it doesn't treat or improve your skin, it just makes the product look more appealing. It's been used for decades and is considered safe in the small amounts found in makeup.
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 Red No. 36 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 Red No. 36.
- 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 12085 is a synthetic organic pigment from the monoazo family, specifically a calcium salt of a red dye. It is approved for use in cosmetics in many countries, including the U.S. and EU, under strict purity and concentration limits.
How it works
As a pigment, CI 12085 sits on the surface of the skin or nail, reflecting and absorbing light to create a visible red color. It does not penetrate deeply into the skin and is not designed to have any active skincare effect — its sole purpose is aesthetic.
Pros
Vibrant color payoff
CI 12085 delivers a strong, true red shade that stays consistent across batches and over time, so your lipstick or blush looks the same every time you use it.
Good stability
This pigment resists fading from light and heat, meaning your colorful products keep their intended shade longer, even if stored in a bathroom or makeup bag.
Cons and cautions
No skincare benefit
CI 12085 is purely a colorant — it won't moisturize, soothe, or protect your skin. If you're looking for a product that does more than color, this ingredient alone won't help.
Potential for irritation in sensitive individuals
While rare, some people with very sensitive skin or a history of reactions to synthetic dyes may experience redness or itching when using products containing this pigment.
Best for
- Anyone looking for a bold red or pink shade in their makeup
- People who want a color that stays consistent and doesn't fade quickly
Use caution if
- Individuals with known allergies or sensitivities to synthetic dyes or azo colorants
Usage tips
Safety summary
CI 12085 is considered safe for use in cosmetics at typical concentrations by major regulatory bodies including the U.S. FDA and the EU Scientific Committee on Consumer Safety. It has a low risk of irritation or allergy for most people, though those with known sensitivities to synthetic dyes should exercise caution.
Research notes
Research on CI 12085 focuses on its purity, stability, and safety as a color additive. Studies have shown it does not cause significant skin irritation or sensitization in the general population. It is not a known carcinogen or endocrine disruptor when used as intended in cosmetics.
Common label clues
- Typical concentration
- Typically 0.1% to 5% depending on desired shade intensity
- Regulatory status
- Approved for use in cosmetics in the U.S. (as D&C Red No. 36) and the EU (as CI 12085) with specified purity and usage limits. Not approved for use in products intended for the eye area in some regions.
- Common uses
- Lipsticks, Blushes, Eye shadows, Nail polishes, Facial makeup
- Environmental note
- As a synthetic pigment, CI 12085 is not biodegradable and may accumulate in water systems if not properly filtered during manufacturing. However, its environmental impact is generally considered low compared to some other industrial dyes.
Good to know
- CI 12085 is the same as D&C Red No. 36 in the U.S. and is listed as CI 12085 in the EU and other regions.
- It is often used in combination with other pigments to create custom shades like berry, coral, or brick red.
Common questions
What is D&C Red No. 36 in beauty products?
CI 12085 is a synthetic red pigment, also known as D&C Red No. 36. It's added to makeup and other beauty products to give them a red or pink color. Think of it like a food coloring for your cosmetics — it doesn't treat or improve your skin, it just makes the product look more appealing. It's been used for decades and is considered safe in the small amounts found in makeup.
What does D&C Red No. 36 do in a beauty product?
As a pigment, CI 12085 sits on the surface of the skin or nail, reflecting and absorbing light to create a visible red color. It does not penetrate deeply into the skin and is not designed to have any active skincare effect — its sole purpose is aesthetic.
Is D&C Red No. 36 safe for most people?
CI 12085 is considered safe for use in cosmetics at typical concentrations by major regulatory bodies including the U.S. FDA and the EU Scientific Committee on Consumer Safety. It has a low risk of irritation or allergy for most people, though those with known sensitivities to synthetic dyes should exercise caution.
Who should be careful with D&C Red No. 36?
Individuals with known allergies or sensitivities to synthetic dyes or azo 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.