Ingredient review
Ferric Ferrocyanide
INCI: CI 77510
A safe and widely used blue pigment in cosmetics, but it's purely for color and offers no skincare benefits.
In plain English
CI 77510 is a blue pigment, also known as ferric ferrocyanide or Iron Blue. It's a synthetic colorant that gives makeup products like eyeshadows, eyeliners, and lipsticks their blue hue. It's not a skincare ingredient—it doesn't hydrate, protect, or treat the skin. Its only job is to add color, and it's considered safe for use in cosmetics when used as intended.
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
Ferric Ferrocyanide 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 Ferric Ferrocyanide.
- 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 77510 is a synthetic inorganic pigment composed of iron and cyanide ions, chemically known as ferric ferrocyanide. It's a deep blue powder that is insoluble in water and oil, making it stable in various cosmetic formulations.
How it works
In a cosmetic product, CI 77510 works by reflecting and absorbing specific wavelengths of light to produce a blue color. It is mixed into the product base (like a powder or cream) to evenly distribute the color. Because it's insoluble, it stays suspended in the formula and doesn't dissolve or bleed into the skin.
Pros
Vibrant and stable color
CI 77510 produces a deep, rich blue that resists fading from light or heat, so your makeup stays true to color throughout the day.
Low irritation potential
As an insoluble pigment, it sits on the skin's surface and is unlikely to cause irritation or allergic reactions for most people.
Cons and cautions
No skincare function
This ingredient is purely a colorant—it doesn't moisturize, soothe, or protect the skin, so it won't improve your skin's health.
Potential for staining
If not properly formulated or removed, the pigment can temporarily stain skin or clothing, especially in high-concentration products like eyeliners.
Best for
- Anyone looking for a bold blue color in their makeup
- People who prefer mineral-based colorants over organic dyes
Use caution if
- Those seeking skincare benefits from their makeup
Usage tips
Safety summary
CI 77510 is considered safe for use in cosmetics at typical concentrations. It has low skin irritation and sensitization potential, and regulatory bodies like the FDA and EU SCCS have approved its use with purity specifications. However, it offers no skincare benefits and is purely decorative.
Research notes
Research on CI 77510 primarily focuses on its safety as a colorant. Studies indicate low acute toxicity and no significant skin irritation or sensitization. The Cosmetic Ingredient Review (CIR) panel has reviewed similar inorganic pigments and found them safe for cosmetic use. No peer-reviewed studies suggest health risks from topical application at approved levels.
Common label clues
- Typical concentration
- Typically used at low levels, often under 5%
- Regulatory status
- Approved for use in cosmetics in the U.S. (FDA) and EU (as CI 77510), with restrictions on purity and maximum concentration in some regions.
- Common uses
- Eyeshadows, Eyeliners, Lipsticks, Nail polishes
- Environmental note
- As a synthetic pigment, its production involves mining and chemical processing, but it is not known to bioaccumulate or persist in the environment at low use levels.
Good to know
- CI 77510 is approved by the U.S. FDA for use in cosmetics, including eye area products, under specific purity requirements.
- Despite its name containing 'cyanide,' the compound is tightly bound and non-toxic in cosmetic use—it's safe as approved.
Common questions
What is Ferric Ferrocyanide in beauty products?
CI 77510 is a blue pigment, also known as ferric ferrocyanide or Iron Blue. It's a synthetic colorant that gives makeup products like eyeshadows, eyeliners, and lipsticks their blue hue. It's not a skincare ingredient—it doesn't hydrate, protect, or treat the skin. Its only job is to add color, and it's considered safe for use in cosmetics when used as intended.
What does Ferric Ferrocyanide do in a beauty product?
In a cosmetic product, CI 77510 works by reflecting and absorbing specific wavelengths of light to produce a blue color. It is mixed into the product base (like a powder or cream) to evenly distribute the color. Because it's insoluble, it stays suspended in the formula and doesn't dissolve or bleed into the skin.
Is Ferric Ferrocyanide safe for most people?
CI 77510 is considered safe for use in cosmetics at typical concentrations. It has low skin irritation and sensitization potential, and regulatory bodies like the FDA and EU SCCS have approved its use with purity specifications. However, it offers no skincare benefits and is purely decorative.
Who should be careful with Ferric Ferrocyanide?
Those seeking skincare benefits from their makeup
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.