CI 77492 (Iron Oxide Yellow)
Yellow mineral pigment based on iron oxide. Builds base yellow and beige tones in decorative cosmetics.
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, Oily, Combination, Sensitive
About this ingredient
CI 77492 is yellow iron oxide, a mineral pigment with the formula Fe₂O₃·H₂O. In cosmetic labelling it appears as Iron Oxide Yellow or CI 77492. It is used in foundations, BB creams, concealers, blushes, lipsticks, and tinted sunscreens. Shade ranges from light yellow to ochre depending on particle size and degree of hydration. Combined with CI 77491 (red iron oxide) and CI 77499 (black iron oxide), it forms the base palette for natural skin tones. Pregnancy safety. CI 77492 is considered safe during pregnancy. The pigment is inert, does not penetrate the skin, and has no systemic activity. Used in everyday cosmetics and in medical or post-procedure makeup for pregnant patients alike. Skin safety. Very low allergenicity and irritation. Suitable for sensitive skin, post-acne skin, and patients with rosacea. Non-comedogenic. UV protection. Iron oxides also absorb visible light in the blue range (HEV). This benefits people with melasma and post-inflammatory hyperpigmentation: tinted sunscreens with CI 77492 + CI 77491 + CI 77499 + titanium dioxide deliver better HEV protection than clear formulas. Regulatory status. Approved by the FDA, EFSA, EU Cosmetic Regulation, and Health Canada. CIR confirms safety for topical use. Bottom line. CI 77492 is a safe mineral pigment with a long history of use. Suitable for pregnancy, sensitive skin, and patients with hyperpigmentation. In tinted sunscreens it helps shield against HEV light.
Frequently asked questions
Is CI 77492 (Iron Oxide Yellow) safe during pregnancy?
CI 77492 (Iron Oxide Yellow) is considered safe during pregnancy at typical cosmetic concentrations. Systemic absorption through the skin is minimal.
What skin types is CI 77492 (Iron Oxide Yellow) for?
CI 77492 (Iron Oxide Yellow) suits: normal, dry, oily, combination, sensitive.
What is CI 77492 (Iron Oxide Yellow) and what does it do in cosmetics?
Yellow mineral pigment based on iron oxide.
What's the INCI name for CI 77492 (Iron Oxide Yellow)?
The INCI name is CI 77492. It may also appear as: Iron Oxide Yellow.
See CI 77492 (Iron Oxide Yellow) in a product composition right on the store page
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Similar role in the formula
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