Ingredient review
Green 6 (CI 61565)
INCI: CI 61565
A safe, widely used synthetic green dye that adds color but offers no skincare benefits.
In plain English
CI 61565 is a synthetic green dye approved for use in cosmetics. It's added to make products look more appealing—like giving a shampoo a pretty green tint—but it doesn't improve your skin or hair. It's considered safe at the low levels used in cosmetics, but if you have very sensitive skin or prefer to avoid synthetic colors, you might want to choose products without it.
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
Green 6 (CI 61565) 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 Green 6 (CI 61565).
- 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 61565 is a synthetic organic pigment derived from anthraquinone, commonly known as D&C Green No. 6. It's used to impart a green color to cosmetic products.
How it works
It works by absorbing and reflecting specific wavelengths of light, giving the product a green appearance. It does not interact with the skin or hair beyond surface-level coloring.
Pros
Vibrant color
Provides a stable, bright green hue that doesn't fade quickly, making products visually appealing.
Regulated safety
Approved by the FDA 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 improve skin health.
Synthetic origin
Derived from petroleum, which may be a concern for those seeking natural or eco-friendly products.
Best for
- Anyone who enjoys colorful cosmetic products
- People without known sensitivities to synthetic dyes
Use caution if
- Individuals with known allergies or sensitivities to synthetic colorants
- Those seeking only natural or organic products
Usage tips
Safety summary
CI 61565 is considered safe for use in cosmetics at the low levels typically used. The Cosmetic Ingredient Review (CIR) panel has concluded it is safe as a color additive. However, like all synthetic dyes, it may cause rare allergic reactions in sensitive individuals.
Research notes
The safety of CI 61565 has been evaluated by the FDA and the CIR panel. Studies indicate low acute toxicity and no significant skin irritation or sensitization at cosmetic use levels. Long-term ingestion studies in animals showed no carcinogenic effects, though ingestion is not relevant for cosmetic use.
Common label clues
- Typical concentration
- Very low (typically less than 1%)
- Regulatory status
- Approved by the U.S. FDA as a color additive for cosmetics, with restrictions on concentration and product type. Also permitted in the EU under Annex IV of the Cosmetics Regulation.
- Common uses
- Soaps, Shampoos, Bath products, Lotions, Lip products
- Environmental note
- As a synthetic dye, it may not biodegrade easily and could contribute to water pollution if not properly filtered during manufacturing.
Good to know
- CI 61565 is also used in some drugs and food packaging, but its cosmetic use is strictly regulated.
- It is not the same as 'Green 5' (CI 61570), which is a different synthetic green dye.
Common questions
What is Green 6 (CI 61565) in beauty products?
CI 61565 is a synthetic green dye approved for use in cosmetics. It's added to make products look more appealing—like giving a shampoo a pretty green tint—but it doesn't improve your skin or hair. It's considered safe at the low levels used in cosmetics, but if you have very sensitive skin or prefer to avoid synthetic colors, you might want to choose products without it.
What does Green 6 (CI 61565) do in a beauty product?
It works by absorbing and reflecting specific wavelengths of light, giving the product a green appearance. It does not interact with the skin or hair beyond surface-level coloring.
Is Green 6 (CI 61565) safe for most people?
CI 61565 is considered safe for use in cosmetics at the low levels typically used. The Cosmetic Ingredient Review (CIR) panel has concluded it is safe as a color additive. However, like all synthetic dyes, it may cause rare allergic reactions in sensitive individuals.
Who should be careful with Green 6 (CI 61565)?
Individuals with known allergies or sensitivities to synthetic colorants Those seeking only natural or organic products
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.