Yellow 5 lake (CI 19140) is the insoluble lake form of tartrazine, where the dye is adsorbed onto an inert mineral substrate. It provides stable, opaque yellow color in oil-rich systems such as lipsticks and pressed powders.
An insoluble form of Yellow 5 dye used to color oil-based makeup.
Category
Color
Type
Pigment
Ingredient Ratings
Overall Rating
Fair
Comedogenic Risk
None
Skin Benefits
Provides strong yellow payoff with good coverage and reduced color migration in waxy or silicone-rich bases, helping achieve crisp lines and long-wearing color in makeup.
Uses In Skincare & Cosmetics
Found in bullet lip color, liquid lip paints, cream-to-powder blush, and compact eye shadows.
Comedogenic Rating
This ingredient is not typically evaluated for comedogenicity, and no standardized rating is available.
Safety
Typically well tolerated, though a minority may experience irritation or allergy related to tartrazine sensitivity. Governed by cosmetic colorant regulations and, in some regions, certification requirements. Stop use if irritation develops.
Is Yellow 5 Lake (CI 19140) a Good Ingredient?
It rates Fair because the lake form delivers stable, opaque yellow payoff but has no direct skin benefit, and rare sensitivity to tartrazine can still occur. Its use is regulated in many markets, which speaks to quality and purity controls rather than a performance advantage.