Ingredient review
Red 6 (CI 15880)
INCI: CI 15880
A widely used synthetic red pigment that is generally safe in cosmetics but offers no skincare benefits.
In plain English
CI 15880 is a man-made red dye that gives lipsticks, blushes, and other makeup their pinkish-red color. It doesn't treat or improve your skin—it's purely for appearance. Regulatory bodies like the FDA have approved it for use in cosmetics, but some people with very sensitive skin may experience mild irritation.
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 6 (CI 15880) 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 6 (CI 15880).
- 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 15880 is a synthetic organic pigment from the monoazo family, chemically known as lithol rubine B. It is manufactured to produce a bright red hue and is commonly listed as D&C Red No. 6 in the United States.
How it works
As a colorant, CI 15880 works by absorbing and reflecting specific wavelengths of light to create a red color. It is dispersed in the product base (like a lipstick or cream) and adheres to the skin or lips, providing visible color that can last for hours.
Pros
Vibrant color payoff
CI 15880 delivers a strong, consistent red shade that stays true in various lighting, making it a favorite for bold lipsticks and blushes.
Regulatory approval
It is approved by the FDA (as D&C Red No. 6) and other global bodies for use in cosmetics, giving consumers confidence in its safety at typical levels.
Cons and cautions
No skin benefits
This ingredient is purely a colorant—it doesn't moisturize, protect, or improve your skin in any way, so it adds no functional value beyond appearance.
Potential irritation
While rare, some people with very sensitive skin or allergies to azo dyes may experience redness, itching, or stinging when using products containing CI 15880.
Best for
- Anyone looking for a bright red color in makeup
- People who prefer synthetic colorants over natural ones for consistency
Use caution if
- Individuals with known allergies to azo dyes or very sensitive skin
- Those seeking skincare benefits from their makeup
Usage tips
Safety summary
CI 15880 is considered safe for cosmetic use at regulated concentrations. The Cosmetic Ingredient Review (CIR) panel and FDA have reviewed it and found no significant health risks for the general population. However, individuals with azo dye allergies should avoid it.
Research notes
Studies confirm that CI 15880 has low acute toxicity and is not a skin sensitizer in most people. A 2019 review by the CIR reaffirmed its safety in cosmetics. No peer-reviewed evidence links it to long-term health issues when used as intended.
Common label clues
- Typical concentration
- Typically used at 0.1% to 5% depending on desired color intensity
- Regulatory status
- Approved by the U.S. FDA as D&C Red No. 6 for use in cosmetics (including eye area) and drugs. Also permitted in the EU under the Cosmetics Regulation with specific purity requirements.
- Common uses
- Lipsticks, Blushes, Eyeshadows, Nail polishes, Soaps
- Environmental note
- As a synthetic pigment, CI 15880 is not biodegradable and may accumulate in waterways. Some manufacturers are exploring more eco-friendly alternatives.
Good to know
- CI 15880 is often paired with other pigments to create custom shades in makeup.
- It is not water-soluble, so it tends to be long-wearing on lips and cheeks.
Common questions
What is Red 6 (CI 15880) in beauty products?
CI 15880 is a man-made red dye that gives lipsticks, blushes, and other makeup their pinkish-red color. It doesn't treat or improve your skin—it's purely for appearance. Regulatory bodies like the FDA have approved it for use in cosmetics, but some people with very sensitive skin may experience mild irritation.
What does Red 6 (CI 15880) do in a beauty product?
As a colorant, CI 15880 works by absorbing and reflecting specific wavelengths of light to create a red color. It is dispersed in the product base (like a lipstick or cream) and adheres to the skin or lips, providing visible color that can last for hours.
Is Red 6 (CI 15880) safe for most people?
CI 15880 is considered safe for cosmetic use at regulated concentrations. The Cosmetic Ingredient Review (CIR) panel and FDA have reviewed it and found no significant health risks for the general population. However, individuals with azo dye allergies should avoid it.
Who should be careful with Red 6 (CI 15880)?
Individuals with known allergies to azo dyes or very sensitive skin 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.