CI 14700 (Red 4)
Synthetic azo dye – gives a pinkish-red shade. Used in decorative cosmetics and rinse-off products. In the EU it is allowed only for indirect mucosal contact.
Supporting ingredient
It gives a product its texture, stability or shelf life. It has no claimed effect on the skin, so an efficacy tier does not apply. What is known about its safety is below
Tolerability and safety
- Irritation potential
- Low
- Allergen risk
- Moderate
- Pregnancy
- Safe
- Suitable for
- Normal, Dry, Combination, Oily
- Use with caution
- Sensitive
About this ingredient
CI 14700 (Red 4, Ponceau SX) is a synthetic mono-azo dye from the food-dye group. It is produced by diazotization and azo coupling of aromatic amines with naphthol. Water-soluble, gives a bright pinkish-red shade. In cosmetics it is used in decorative products (lipsticks, blushes, eyeshadows, nail polishes), rinse-off products (shampoos, shower gels) and toothpastes (mucosal contact is restricted). In the EU it is regulated by Annex IV of Regulation 1223/2009 – allowed for certain product types with concentration limits. In the US food industry (FDA Red No. 4) it has been banned since 1976 except for coloring maraschino cherries, after carcinogenicity studies. In Europe it retains the status of an approved cosmetic colorant with restrictions. Pregnancy safety. Skin absorption into the systemic circulation is minimal. Topically at cosmetic concentrations it is considered safe. Skin profile. Low direct irritation potential. Moderate allergen potential – azo dyes as a class may cause contact dermatitis in predisposed individuals. Non-comedogenic. No active cosmetic effects – a purely decorative function.
Frequently asked questions
Is CI 14700 (Red 4) safe during pregnancy?
CI 14700 (Red 4) is considered safe during pregnancy at typical cosmetic concentrations. Systemic absorption through the skin is minimal.
What skin types is CI 14700 (Red 4) for?
CI 14700 (Red 4) suits: normal, dry, combination, oily. Use with caution in: sensitive.
What is CI 14700 (Red 4) and what does it do in cosmetics?
Synthetic azo dye – gives a pinkish-red shade.
Is CI 14700 (Red 4) comedogenic?
On the Fulton scale 0/5 – non-comedogenic. For acne-prone skin, a rating of 3 or higher suggests choosing an alternative.
What's the INCI name for CI 14700 (Red 4)?
The INCI name is CI 14700. It may also appear as: Red 4, Red 4 (Ci 14700), Ponceau SX.
See CI 14700 (Red 4) in a product composition right on the store page
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