Red 40 (CI 16035)

Red 40 (CI 16035) is a water-soluble synthetic azo dye, known as Allura Red AC, that supplies vivid red-orange color in liquid systems. It's used across cosmetics and personal care for bright hues, broad compatibility, and consistent, regulatory-compliant results.
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Ingredient Snapshot

Overview
A common dye that gives cosmetics a vivid red-orange color.
Category
Color
Type
Colorant

Ingredient Ratings

Overall Rating

Fair

Comedogenic Risk

None

Skin Benefits

Provides a noticeable red-orange tint that disperses evenly in water-based formulas, useful for creating bright shades without affecting product texture.

Uses In Skincare & Cosmetics

Often used in toners, gels, liquid makeup, shampoos, and body washes to color aqueous systems.

Comedogenic Rating

This ingredient is not typically evaluated for comedogenicity, and no standardized rating is available.

Safety

Considered safe at approved concentrations with regulatory oversight. A small number of people may experience irritation or temporary staining; avoid use on broken or highly reactive skin.

Is Red 40 (CI 16035) a Good Ingredient?

Fair, because it gives vivid, uniform red-orange color in water-based products but delivers no direct skin benefit and can occasionally irritate or stain. Its use is regulated, with batch certification applying in some markets.

Products with Red 40 (CI 16035)

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