Iron Oxides
Iron oxide (CI 77491 red, CI 77492 yellow, CI 77499 black)
Three primary iron oxide colorants; must meet heavy metal purity specifications (EU Annex IV); eye-area use requires pharmaceutical grade to ensure absence of impurities; widely used in mineral makeup
Function & Common Use
Colorant
Colorant
Foundations lipsticks eyeshadows blushers mineral makeup
Mineral (synthetic iron oxide)
Concentration Limits
No formal limit
EU Annex IV: 3% in eye area; permitted in other areas without limit
Baby restriction: Eye area: pharmaceutical grade only
Frequently Asked Questions
Is Iron Oxides safe to use in skincare?
Iron Oxides has a Low concern rating from The Clean Sheet. Three primary iron oxide colorants; must meet heavy metal purity specifications (EU Annex IV); eye-area use requires pharmaceutical grade to ensure absence of impurities; widely used in mineral makeup
Is Iron Oxides allowed in India?
Iron Oxides is currently classified as "Permitted" under Indian cosmetics regulations. The maximum permitted concentration is No formal limit.
What is Iron Oxides used for in cosmetics?
Iron Oxides functions as: Colorant. It is commonly found in: Foundations lipsticks eyeshadows blushers mineral makeup.
Is Iron Oxides safe for babies?
Iron Oxides has baby/child restrictions: Eye area: pharmaceutical grade only. Avoid using products containing this ingredient on infants unless specifically formulated and labelled for baby use.
Regulatory Status
EU Annex: EU Annex IV
Identifiers
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