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Moumoujus

CI 40850.

Insufficient Data CAS 514-78-3 / COLORANT

CI 40850, also known as Canthaxanthin, is a carotenoid primarily utilized as an orange-red colorant in cosmetic formulations. Beyond its aesthetic function, it also acts as a potent lipid-soluble antioxidant, safeguarding dermal cells from oxidative stress and potentially serving as a vitamin A precursor.

Summary

colorant antioxidant potential vitamin A precursor

Science

Mechanism of Action

CI 40850 functions predominantly as a colorant, imparting an orange-red hue to cosmetic products, skin, nails, and hair. Additionally, it exhibits a robust antioxidant effect, acting as a potent lipid-soluble free radical scavenger that helps protect dermal cell membranes from oxidative damage. It may also contribute as a potential precursor to Vitamin A.

Research

Clinical Evidence

Low confidence
Effective range N/A
Optimal

N/A

Transparency

Dusting Analysis

Not commonly dusted

The Formula

Formulation

Solubility
Oil
Optimal pH 4 – 8
0 7 14

Stability

Canthaxanthin is highly susceptible to degradation when exposed to oxygen and light; therefore, formulations containing it should be stored in light-resistant containers, ideally under an inert gas atmosphere. It is also sensitive to low pH environments and can degrade in acidic conditions; optimal stability for related carotenoids is observed within a pH range of 4.0 to 8.0, with higher stability typically noted around pH 6.0-7.0.

Safety

Safety Profile

CIR Status
Not reviewed
Sensitization risk Unknown

The Cosmetic Ingredient Review (CIR) Expert Panel has not specifically reviewed Canthaxanthin (CI 40850) for its safety in cosmetic use. In the EU, while the Scientific Committee on Consumer Safety (SCCS) regulates colorants, no specific opinion or maximum concentration for topical cosmetic use of CI 40850 has been identified in the provided data. In the US, the FDA classifies Canthaxanthin as 'Permanently listed, exempt from certification' for specific food and drug uses with restrictions (e.g., generally not exceeding 30 mg/lb in foods); however, explicit approval or maximum concentration restrictions for topical cosmetic use are not detailed in the provided FDA color additive tables, though FDA generally requires approval for cosmetic color additives.

Your Skin

Skin Compatibility

No Normal
No Dry
No Oily
No Sensitive
Irritancy Unknown
Comedogenicity Unknown

Our Assessment

Verdict

Insufficient Data

While CI 40850 functions as both a colorant and an antioxidant, its specific safety profile and permitted maximum concentrations for topical cosmetic applications lack comprehensive review by key regulatory bodies.

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