Mineral pigments – red (CI 77491), yellow (CI 77492), black (CI 77499). Color foundations, BB creams, eyeshadows, lipsticks, and mineral sunscreens. They also block visible light – the only pigments that protect against HEV/blue light. Safe during pregnancy and for sensitive skin.
Topical application
BLimited evidence. One RCT or several controlled studies with limitations.
Beyond color, RCTs (Boukari 2015, Ferrand 2014) show that iron oxides combined with mineral UV filters reduce visible-light and HEV-induced pigmentation by 60-100% in melasma and PIH patients. This is why tinted sunscreens are recommended for hyperpigmentation.
Iron Oxides are mineral pigments: red (CI 77491, Fe₂O₃), yellow (CI 77492, FeO(OH)), black (CI 77499, Fe₃O₄). Produced synthetically from iron salts by oxidation and heat treatment. Natural iron ores are not used in cosmetics due to heavy metal risk. Where applied. Foundations, BB and CC creams, lipsticks, eyeshadows, blushes, mineral sunscreens (0.1-15%). They give the full spectrum of natural skin and hair shades by mixing the three base colors. In Spain in Vichy Dermablend, La Roche-Posay Anthelios Tinted, Sesderma Color Repair, Garnier BB creams. Visible light protection. Beyond the decorative function, iron oxides are the only pigments that block HEV/blue light (400-700 nm) and infrared light – both triggers of pigmentation in patients with melasma. Tinted sunscreens with iron oxides are more effective than plain sunscreens against melasma (Castanedo-Cazares 2014, RCT in 68 women – additional MASI reduction of 23%). Safety. CIR rated iron oxides safe at cosmetic concentrations (1982, re-evaluated 2017). FDA Class IV pigment, approved for skin and eye contact. Non-irritating, non-allergenic, non-comedogenic. EU SCCS has set no restrictions. Pregnancy and lactation – safe. Suitable for all skin types, especially sensitive, acne-prone, and in melasma and pigmentation.
Irritation potential
LowAllergen risk
LowPregnancy
SafeSuitable for
The Evigrade extension adds an evidence panel to Wildberries, Goldapple, Letu, iHerb, Sephora and 12 more stores. This ingredient and every other one in the product show evidence-tier, allergen risk and pregnancy/lactation flags at a glance.
Iron Oxides is considered safe during pregnancy at typical cosmetic concentrations. Systemic absorption through the skin is minimal.
Iron Oxides suits: normal, dry, combination, oily, sensitive.
Mineral pigments – red (CI 77491), yellow (CI 77492), black (CI 77499).
The INCI name is Iron Oxides. It may also appear as: CI 77491, CI 77492, CI 77499.
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