Beauty · Carcinogens, mutagens & reproductive toxicants

Is Carbon black Banned? EU vs US Status, Risks & Where It Hides

TL;DR: Carbon black is restricted in the EU but allowed in the US (carcinogens, mutagens & reproductive toxicants).

INCI name Carbon Black. CAS 1333-86-4.

Is Carbon black banned in the EU?

EU status	Restricted
US status	Allowed
Risk level	medium
Where it shows up	mascara, eyeliner, black makeup
CAS number	1333-86-4

Carbon black (Carbon Black) is a black pigment.

It is used for its preservative, coloring, fragrance, solvent or texture-enhancing function.

A possible carcinogen; the EU restricts purity and nanoform use.

Choose EU-compliant or 'free-from' formulations and read the INCI list. BannedPantry flags this ingredient and suggests safer swaps.

Is Carbon black banned in the EU?

Carbon black is restricted under the EU Cosmetics Regulation (1223/2009), but it is allowed in US personal-care products.

Is Carbon black in US cosmetics?

Yes — Carbon black can still appear in US-sold cosmetics and personal-care products because US rules are far less restrictive than the EU's.

What products contain Carbon black?

Read the INCI ingredient list on the back of the package. Scan the barcode with BannedPantry to flag Carbon black automatically.

Are there safer alternatives to Carbon black?

Yes. Look for EU-compliant or 'free-from' formulations; BannedPantry suggests safer swaps when it detects Carbon black.

Is Carbon black in your bathroom cabinet?

Scan any product's barcode and instantly see if it contains Carbon black or other ingredients banned overseas.

Our scores are never influenced by brands. Last updated 6/11/2026.