CI 77288 (Chromium Oxide Greens)
Dark green mineral pigment – chromium(III) oxide (Cr2O3). Lightfast, heat-stable, inert. Used in makeup – eyeshadows, eyeliners, color correctors for neutralizing redness. Banned in lip and mouth-area products in the US (FDA), allowed in the EU.
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
- Low
- Pregnancy
- Safe
- Suitable for
- Normal, Dry, Combination, Oily, Sensitive
About this ingredient
Chromium Oxide Greens (CI 77288) is a dark-green mineral pigment, chromium oxide (Cr2O3). Produced by calcining chromium salts at high temperature. Color: matte, saturated, olive-green. Where applied. Decorative cosmetics: eyeshadows, eyeliners, cream correctors for redness neutralization (green cancels red by complementary-color principle). Concentration 1-30%. In Spain – in tinted products La Roche-Posay Toleriane Teint, Avène Couvrance, Eucerin DermoPure, Sesderma. Mechanism. Pure mineral pigment, does not react with skin. Molecule too large to penetrate the stratum corneum. Colors the surface via light reflection. Stable to UV, temperature, oxidizers. Does not fade. Evidence base. A functional pigment. No therapeutic efficacy – role is cosmetic. Safety. CIR confirmed Cr2O3 safety up to 100% (in pigment blends). Chromium at this oxidation state (Cr+3) is non-toxic and non-allergenic – unlike chromates (Cr+6), which are carcinogens and contact allergens. In quality pigments Cr+6 content is strictly controlled (<10 ppm in the EU). Chromate controversy. Cheap low-quality pigments may be contaminated with chromates (Cr+6). In chrome-allergic patients (common contact allergy, 2-5% of general population – cement, leather, nickel-plated items) reactions are possible. In certified pharmacy-brand cosmetics risk is minimal. FDA restriction. In the US it is banned in lip and mucosal products (as are ultramarines). In the EU – allowed everywhere. Pregnancy and lactation – safe. Acceptable at any stage. Systemic absorption is zero. Suitable for. Sensitive skin with couperose and rosacea – green correctors neutralize redness. Chrome-allergic patients (metal jewelry, cement) – use with caution, patch-test on a small area.
Frequently asked questions
Is CI 77288 (Chromium Oxide Greens) safe during pregnancy?
CI 77288 (Chromium Oxide Greens) is considered safe during pregnancy at typical cosmetic concentrations. Systemic absorption through the skin is minimal.
What skin types is CI 77288 (Chromium Oxide Greens) for?
CI 77288 (Chromium Oxide Greens) suits: normal, dry, combination, oily, sensitive.
What is CI 77288 (Chromium Oxide Greens) and what does it do in cosmetics?
Dark green mineral pigment – chromium(III) oxide (Cr2O3).
What's the INCI name for CI 77288 (Chromium Oxide Greens)?
The INCI name is CI 77288. It may also appear as: Chromium Oxide Greens, Chromium Oxide Green, Pigment Green 17.
See CI 77288 (Chromium Oxide Greens) in a product composition right on the store page
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