Snapshot
- Overview
- A synthetic dye that gives products a bright, consistent yellow hue.
- Category
- Color
- Type
- Colorant
Tartrazine (CI 19140)
Tartrazine (CI 19140) is a synthetic, water-soluble yellow azo dye permitted as a cosmetic colorant. Soaps, gels, bath products, and makeup use it for stable lemon-yellow shades and consistent color from batch to batch.
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Our take
Is Tartrazine (CI 19140) a Good Ingredient?
It rates Fair: it's effective for vivid, uniform yellow color but offers no direct skin benefit, and a small subset may experience irritation or sensitization to azo dyes. Its use is regulated with permitted color lists and purity limits, which can constrain formulation choices.
What it does
Skin Benefits
It delivers a bright, uniform yellow tone that improves product aesthetics, and maintains batch-to-batch shade consistency for a polished presentation.
Where you'll find it
Uses in Skincare & Cosmetics
It's often included in shampoos, body washes, lotions, and liquid foundations for a sunny tint, and used in bath bombs and lip products for vivid coloration.
Before you use it
Safety
It's generally considered safe at approved use levels. A minority may experience irritation or allergy-type responses, especially with azo dye sensitivity. Compliance with regional purity and concentration limits is essential.
