Ingredient review
Yellow Lake
INCI: CI 11680
CI 11680 is a safe, widely used yellow pigment in cosmetics, but it offers no skincare benefits and is purely for color.
In plain English
CI 11680 is a synthetic yellow pigment that gives makeup products like eyeshadows and lipsticks their yellow color. It doesn't treat or improve your skin—it's just there to make the product look appealing. Think of it like food coloring for your makeup.
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 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 Yellow 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 11680 is a synthetic organic pigment, specifically a monoazo yellow lake, approved for use in cosmetics to impart a yellow shade.
How it works
It works by reflecting yellow light and absorbing other wavelengths, creating a visible yellow color on the skin or in the product. It is chemically stable and does not react with other ingredients under normal use.
Pros
Vibrant color payoff
Delivers a bright, consistent yellow shade that stays true in various lighting conditions.
Good stability
Resists fading from light and heat, so your makeup keeps its color longer.
Cons and cautions
No skin benefits
It is purely a colorant and does not moisturize, protect, or improve skin health.
Potential allergen
A small number of people may experience irritation or allergic reactions, especially those sensitive to azo dyes.
Best for
- Anyone using colored cosmetics who wants a yellow shade
- Makeup enthusiasts looking for bright, consistent color
Use caution if
- Individuals with known allergies to azo dyes or specific synthetic pigments
Usage tips
Safety summary
CI 11680 is considered safe for use in cosmetics at typical concentrations, with a low risk of irritation or comedogenicity. Rare allergic reactions are possible in sensitive individuals.
Research notes
Research indicates that CI 11680 has low acute toxicity and is not a skin sensitizer in most people. It is well-studied as a color additive with a long history of safe use.
Common label clues
- Typical concentration
- Typically used at 0.1% to 5% depending on desired color intensity
- Regulatory status
- Approved for use in cosmetics by the FDA (as a color additive) and the EU Cosmetics Regulation, subject to purity and usage limits.
- Common uses
- Eyeshadows, Lipsticks, Blushes, Nail polishes
- Environmental note
- As a synthetic pigment, its production involves chemical synthesis; disposal should follow local regulations to minimize environmental impact.
Good to know
- CI 11680 is also known as Pigment Yellow 1 and is listed under the Color Index system.
- It is approved for use in cosmetics in the EU, US, and many other regions.
Common questions
What is Yellow Lake in beauty products?
CI 11680 is a synthetic yellow pigment that gives makeup products like eyeshadows and lipsticks their yellow color. It doesn't treat or improve your skin—it's just there to make the product look appealing. Think of it like food coloring for your makeup.
What does Yellow Lake do in a beauty product?
It works by reflecting yellow light and absorbing other wavelengths, creating a visible yellow color on the skin or in the product. It is chemically stable and does not react with other ingredients under normal use.
Is Yellow Lake safe for most people?
CI 11680 is considered safe for use in cosmetics at typical concentrations, with a low risk of irritation or comedogenicity. Rare allergic reactions are possible in sensitive individuals.
Who should be careful with Yellow Lake?
Individuals with known allergies to azo dyes or specific synthetic 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.