Ingredient review
Yellow 7 (CI 45350)
INCI: CI 45350
CI 45350 is a synthetic yellow dye that adds color to cosmetics; it is generally considered safe at low concentrations but may cause irritation in sensitive individuals.
In plain English
CI 45350 is a man-made yellow dye that gives a bright, fluorescent yellow color to products like soap, shampoo, and lipstick. It's also known as D&C Yellow No. 7 or fluorescein. In cosmetics, it's used in tiny amounts just to make the product look appealing. While it's approved for use in many countries, some people with very sensitive skin might find it irritating, especially around the eyes.
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
Yellow 7 (CI 45350) 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 Yellow 7 (CI 45350).
- 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 45350 is a synthetic organic compound from the xanthene dye family. It appears as a bright yellow powder that dissolves in water to produce a fluorescent yellow-green solution. It is commonly used in cosmetics, drugs, and even medical diagnostics (as fluorescein).
How it works
In a cosmetic product, CI 45350 simply imparts color. It does not treat the skin or provide any active skincare benefit. It works by absorbing certain wavelengths of light and reflecting yellow, giving the product its intended shade.
Pros
Vibrant color
CI 45350 produces a bright, fluorescent yellow that is hard to achieve with natural colorants, making products visually appealing.
Regulatory approval
It is approved by the FDA for use in cosmetics and drugs (as D&C Yellow No. 7), with strict purity and concentration limits.
Cons and cautions
No skincare benefit
This ingredient is purely cosmetic — it adds color but does not hydrate, protect, or improve skin health.
Potential irritation
Some people, especially those with sensitive skin or allergies, may experience redness, itching, or stinging when using products containing this dye.
Best for
- Anyone who enjoys colorful cosmetic products
- People without known dye sensitivities
Use caution if
- Individuals with known allergies or sensitivities to synthetic dyes
- Those with very sensitive or reactive skin
Usage tips
Safety summary
CI 45350 is considered safe for use in cosmetics at low concentrations by major regulatory bodies. However, it can cause skin irritation in sensitive individuals, and there is limited long-term safety data for chronic topical exposure.
Research notes
Studies on CI 45350 focus on its use as a diagnostic dye (fluorescein) rather than cosmetic safety. Regulatory reviews by the FDA and SCCS have established safe concentration limits, but independent research on cosmetic exposure is sparse.
Common label clues
- Typical concentration
- Very low, often less than 1%
- Regulatory status
- Approved by the U.S. FDA as a color additive for cosmetics and drugs (D&C Yellow No. 7) with specific purity and usage limits. Also permitted in the EU under Annex IV of the Cosmetics Regulation.
- Common uses
- Soaps, Bath products, Hair dyes, Lip products
- Environmental note
- Synthetic dyes like CI 45350 are not biodegradable and may accumulate in water systems. Proper disposal of products containing this dye is recommended to minimize environmental impact.
Good to know
- CI 45350 is also used in medical settings as fluorescein for eye exams.
- It is sometimes listed as D&C Yellow No. 7 on U.S. product labels.
- Natural alternatives like turmeric or annatto can provide yellow color without synthetic dyes.
Common questions
What is Yellow 7 (CI 45350) in beauty products?
CI 45350 is a man-made yellow dye that gives a bright, fluorescent yellow color to products like soap, shampoo, and lipstick. It's also known as D&C Yellow No. 7 or fluorescein. In cosmetics, it's used in tiny amounts just to make the product look appealing. While it's approved for use in many countries, some people with very sensitive skin might find it irritating, especially around the eyes.
What does Yellow 7 (CI 45350) do in a beauty product?
In a cosmetic product, CI 45350 simply imparts color. It does not treat the skin or provide any active skincare benefit. It works by absorbing certain wavelengths of light and reflecting yellow, giving the product its intended shade.
Is Yellow 7 (CI 45350) safe for most people?
CI 45350 is considered safe for use in cosmetics at low concentrations by major regulatory bodies. However, it can cause skin irritation in sensitive individuals, and there is limited long-term safety data for chronic topical exposure.
Who should be careful with Yellow 7 (CI 45350)?
Individuals with known allergies or sensitivities to synthetic dyes Those with very sensitive or reactive skin
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.