colorantsStandard

CI 77491, CI 77492, CI 77499

Iron Oxides

colorant

INCI Name

CI 77491, CI 77492, ...

Functions

1 Roles

Sustainability

8/10

Category

colorants

What It Does

CI 77491, CI 77492, and CI 77499 are synthetic iron oxides that provide yellow, red, and black pigmentation respectively in cosmetic formulations. These inorganic pigments are chemically identical to naturally occurring iron oxides but are manufactured under controlled conditions to ensure purity and consistent color performance. Formulators favor these iron oxides because they offer excellent color stability, are non-bleeding, provide broad spectrum UV protection as a secondary benefit, and are suitable for use around the sensitive eye area unlike many organic colorants.

Enhances formula performance
Contributes to product quality
Supports formulation goals
Improves user experience

Technical Properties

Ionic Charge

nonionic

Molecular charge type

Viscosity Effect

neutral

Impact on formula thickness

Foaming Ability

none

Lather generation

Ingredient Compatibility

Known Interactions

ASCORBIC ACIDNoteDegradation

Iron from iron oxide pigments can catalyze oxidation of Ascorbic Acid via Fenton reaction. Not a concern at typical pigment levels in tinted products, but avoid high concentrations of both.

Compatibility analysis powered by OpenMix — open-source formulation science

Sustainability Profile

Sustainability Score

8/10

Biodegradability

not readily biodegradable

Source

mineral

Feedstock

iron ore

Related Ingredients

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Quick Reference

Full INCI Name
CI 77491, CI 77492, CI 77499
Common Name
Iron Oxides
Category
colorants

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