Chromium Hydroxide Green

INCI: CHROMIUM HYDROXIDE GREEN

Reviewed by Rosie · Last updated 20 Jul 2026

A synthetic green colourant primarily used in hair dyes rather than skincare

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What Is Chromium Hydroxide Green?

Chromium hydroxide green is a synthetic inorganic pigment composed of chromium oxide compounds. It is primarily employed as a colouring agent in hair dyes and cosmetic products, rather than as an active skincare ingredient. The compound provides a stable green hue and is regulated for use in cosmetic formulations across most jurisdictions.

In skincare, this ingredient appears rarely and functions purely as a colorant. It is not designed to treat skin concerns or deliver therapeutic benefits; its role is aesthetic, lending colour to formulations.

How It Works

Chromium hydroxide green works as an inert colorant. It does not interact with skin biochemistry or penetrate the skin barrier in a meaningful way. Instead, it remains on the surface or within the product matrix, delivering visual colour to the preparation.

Clinical Evidence & References

There is limited clinical evidence addressing chromium hydroxide green in skincare specifically, because it is not an active ingredient. Research on chromium compounds in cosmetics has focused on purity and safety — particularly on the presence of hexavalent chromium (chromium VI), which can trigger allergic sensitisation through skin contact. Studies have established methods to detect and minimise hexavalent chromium in cosmetic colorants to ensure safety.

The ingredient itself, when used as a trivalent chromium compound (chromium III) in compliance with regulatory standards, is considered safe for topical use in cosmetic products at approved concentrations.

How to Use

If a product contains chromium hydroxide green, no special application technique is required beyond standard use of the formulation. The ingredient's function is purely visual; it does not require any particular timing, frequency adjustment, or layering consideration in your routine.

Safety & Precautions

Chromium hydroxide green is generally well-tolerated in cosmetic products when manufactured to regulatory standards. The key safety concern is the potential presence of hexavalent chromium (chromium VI) as a contaminant, which can cause skin allergies; reputable manufacturers test for and minimise this through rigorous quality control.

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