CI 77400

CI 77400, also known as iron oxide yellow, is a synthetic inorganic pigment derived from iron oxide compounds. It is approved for use in cosmetics across most regulatory jurisdictions and functions primarily as a colouring agent, providing a yellow or ochre tone to skincare products.This ingredient has no direct active benefit to skin itself; its role is cosmetic and formulation-based. It is commonly found in foundations, concealers, and tinted moisturisers where colour consistency and product appearance are important, though it appears in only a small proportion of skincare products overall.

CI 77400 works mechanically as a pigment by absorbing and scattering light, creating visible colour in a formulation. It does not undergo chemical reactions on the skin or penetrate the epidermis in any meaningful way.When applied as part of a tinted skincare product, the particles remain on the surface and are removed during cleansing, similar to how any cosmetic colour additive behaves.

CI 77400 requires no special usage guidance from a consumer perspective, as it is a passive ingredient that simply provides colour to a product. Use the formulation containing this ingredient according to the directions on the product label.

Iron oxide pigments, including CI 77400, are considered safe for topical use in cosmetics. They are approved for use in the EU and US, and no specific cautions apply for most users; however, those with known sensitivity to iron oxides should avoid products containing them.