Ingredient review
Red 27 Lake
INCI: CI 45410
A safe, widely used synthetic pigment that adds vibrant red color to makeup but offers no skincare benefits.
In plain English
CI 45410 is a synthetic red dye, often called Red 27 Lake. It's used to give makeup products like lipstick, blush, and eyeshadow their bright red or pink color. Think of it as a color additive—it doesn't treat or improve your skin, it just makes the product look appealing. It's generally considered safe for use in cosmetics at the levels allowed by regulators.
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
Red 27 Lake 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 Red 27 Lake.
- 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 45410 is a synthetic organic pigment from the xanthene dye family. It's created in a lab and is approved for use in cosmetics in many countries, including the US and EU. The 'Lake' form means it's been made insoluble so it doesn't bleed or run in the product.
How it works
It works by absorbing and reflecting specific wavelengths of light, which our eyes perceive as a red or pink color. It doesn't interact with the skin's biology; it simply sits on the surface, providing visual color to the product.
Pros
Vibrant color payoff
Provides a bright, consistent red or pink shade that stays true in the product and on the skin.
Regulatory approval
Approved by major regulatory bodies like the FDA and EU for use in cosmetics, meaning it has undergone safety review.
Cons and cautions
No skincare benefit
This ingredient is purely cosmetic—it adds color but does not hydrate, protect, or improve skin health.
Potential for irritation
While rare, some people may experience contact dermatitis or allergic reactions, especially if they have sensitive skin or a history of dye allergies.
Best for
- Anyone looking for bright, long-lasting red or pink makeup
- People who prefer synthetic over natural colorants for consistency
Use caution if
- Individuals with known allergies to synthetic dyes or specific red pigments
Usage tips
Safety summary
CI 45410 is considered safe for use in cosmetics at regulated levels. Rare allergic reactions are possible, but it is not a common irritant or sensitizer.
Research notes
Research supports its safety as a cosmetic colorant when used within approved limits. No significant health risks have been identified in typical cosmetic use.
Common label clues
- Typical concentration
- Typically used at very low concentrations, often less than 1%
- Regulatory status
- Approved for use in cosmetics in the US (FDA) and EU (as CI 45410) with concentration limits for certain product types.
- Common uses
- Lipsticks, Blushes, Eyeshadows, Nail polishes, Facial makeup
- Environmental note
- As a synthetic pigment, its production involves chemical processes that may have environmental impacts, but it is not known to bioaccumulate significantly.
Good to know
- CI 45410 is often listed as D&C Red No. 27 Lake in US products.
- It is not the same as Red 40 or other food dyes, though they are all synthetic.
Common questions
What is Red 27 Lake in beauty products?
CI 45410 is a synthetic red dye, often called Red 27 Lake. It's used to give makeup products like lipstick, blush, and eyeshadow their bright red or pink color. Think of it as a color additive—it doesn't treat or improve your skin, it just makes the product look appealing. It's generally considered safe for use in cosmetics at the levels allowed by regulators.
What does Red 27 Lake do in a beauty product?
It works by absorbing and reflecting specific wavelengths of light, which our eyes perceive as a red or pink color. It doesn't interact with the skin's biology; it simply sits on the surface, providing visual color to the product.
Is Red 27 Lake safe for most people?
CI 45410 is considered safe for use in cosmetics at regulated levels. Rare allergic reactions are possible, but it is not a common irritant or sensitizer.
Who should be careful with Red 27 Lake?
Individuals with known allergies to synthetic dyes or specific red pigments
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.