Ingredient
Iron Oxides
CI 77491
CI 77492
CI 77499
Red Iron Oxide
Yellow Iron Oxide
Black Iron Oxide
What it is
A group of mineral pigments (red, yellow, and black iron oxide) used to color mascaras, foundations, and other cosmetics; the collective INCI name covers all three shades, which are blended to hit a target tone.
How it works
Insoluble mineral particles disperse through the product and absorb/reflect light to impart opaque color, with red/yellow/black ratios adjusted to achieve the desired shade.
What it does
Opacifying
Concerns to know
-
Well tolerated
No significant safety concern is reported for this ingredient as used in cosmetics.