Ingredient review

Ferric Tetracarboxyphthalocyanine

INCI: FERRIC TETRACARBOXYPHTHALOCYANINE

A synthetic blue pigment that adds color to makeup but offers no skincare benefits.

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In plain English

Ferric Tetracarboxyphthalocyanine is a man-made blue pigment used to give color to cosmetics like eyeliners, mascaras, and lipsticks. It doesn't treat or improve skin—it's purely for visual appeal. Think of it as a paint ingredient that stays on the surface.

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

Ferric Tetracarboxyphthalocyanine 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 Ferric Tetracarboxyphthalocyanine.
  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

A synthetic organic pigment from the phthalocyanine family, containing iron, that produces a bright blue shade.

How it works

It sits on the skin's surface as a colorant, reflecting blue light to create the desired shade. It does not penetrate or interact with skin cells.

Pros

Vibrant color payoff

Delivers a strong, true blue shade that stays consistent under different lighting.

Good stability

Resists fading from light and heat, so your makeup keeps its color longer.

Cons and cautions

No skin benefit

Provides only color—no moisturizing, anti-aging, or protective effects for the skin.

Potential staining

Can leave blue marks on clothes or skin if not properly formulated or removed.

Best for

  • Anyone wanting a bold blue color in makeup
  • People with normal, non-sensitive skin looking for decorative cosmetics

Use caution if

  • Those with known sensitivity to synthetic pigments
  • People seeking skincare benefits from their color cosmetics

Usage tips

Use a gentle oil-based makeup remover to avoid staining from blue pigments.
Patch test on a small area if you have sensitive skin or a history of reactions to colorants.

Safety summary

Generally considered safe for external use in cosmetics at low concentrations. Rare reports of skin irritation exist, but it is not a common sensitizer.

Research notes

Limited peer-reviewed studies on this specific pigment in cosmetics; safety is inferred from its chemical class (phthalocyanines) and regulatory approvals.

Common label clues

Typical concentration
Typically less than 1% in leave-on products
Regulatory status
Approved as a color additive in cosmetics in many regions, including the EU and US, subject to concentration limits.
Common uses
Eyeliners, Mascaras, Eye shadows, Lip products
Environmental note
As a synthetic pigment, it is not biodegradable and may accumulate in water systems if washed down drains.

Good to know

  • This pigment is often listed near the end of ingredient lists because it's used in tiny amounts.
  • It is not water-soluble, so it stays put on the skin.

Common questions

What is Ferric Tetracarboxyphthalocyanine in beauty products?

Ferric Tetracarboxyphthalocyanine is a man-made blue pigment used to give color to cosmetics like eyeliners, mascaras, and lipsticks. It doesn't treat or improve skin—it's purely for visual appeal. Think of it as a paint ingredient that stays on the surface.

What does Ferric Tetracarboxyphthalocyanine do in a beauty product?

It sits on the skin's surface as a colorant, reflecting blue light to create the desired shade. It does not penetrate or interact with skin cells.

Is Ferric Tetracarboxyphthalocyanine safe for most people?

Generally considered safe for external use in cosmetics at low concentrations. Rare reports of skin irritation exist, but it is not a common sensitizer.

Who should be careful with Ferric Tetracarboxyphthalocyanine?

Those with known sensitivity to synthetic pigments People seeking skincare benefits from their color cosmetics

Research sources

CosIng Database - European CommissionOpenPubChem - Ferric TetracarboxyphthalocyanineOpen

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.