CI 16035 (Red 40 / Allura Red) vs Iron Oxides: which is worse?

What is CI 16035 (Red 40 / Allura Red)?

CI 16035 (Allura Red AC) is a red azo dye that is one of the most widely used synthetic colorants in both food and cosmetics. In cosmetics it provides vivid red coloring in products for external use.

What is Iron Oxides?

Iron oxides are inorganic mineral pigments used to produce a range of colors in cosmetics: CI 77491 (red), CI 77492 (yellow), CI 77499 (black). These synthetic cosmetic-grade iron oxides are specifically manufactured for purity and to avoid the heavy metal impurities present in natural iron ores.

Documented risks

CI 16035 (Red 40 / Allura Red): Topical cosmetic use of CI 16035 is considered safe. Systemic absorption from properly formulated rinse-off or leave-on products is minimal. Unlike food consumption (where concerns include potential behavioral effects in hyperactive children), topical cosmetic exposure does not raise the same issues. The CIR and FDA have assessed it as safe for cosmetic use. It is not a carcinogen for topical applications.

Iron Oxides: Cosmetic-grade iron oxides are among the safest colorants used in personal care products. They are inert, non-reactive, non-carcinogenic, and non-irritating. They do not penetrate intact skin. FDA and EU have approved them for use in a wide range of cosmetic applications including eye area products. The key safety requirement is that cosmetic-grade iron oxides must be synthetically produced (not mined) to ensure they are free from harmful heavy metal contaminants.