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CI 77120.

Valuable CAS 7727-43-7 / COLORANT

CI 77120, scientifically known as Barium Sulfate, is a mineral-derived compound primarily employed for its white pigment and opacifying properties in skincare and cosmetics. Beyond its aesthetic contributions, it actively absorbs excess surface moisture and exhibits potential in supporting the skin's natural barrier function.

Summary

Colorant Opacifying Absorbent Pigment Viscosity Controlling Pigment Extender Light Diffusing Emulsion Stabilizer

Science

Mechanism of Action

CI 77120 functions as a highly effective white cosmetic colorant and an opacifying agent, reducing the transparency of product formulations. It can serve as a pigment extender and, when combined with ingredients like titanium dioxide, creates a light-diffusing effect to visually soften the appearance of fine lines. Furthermore, it possesses moisture-absorbing capabilities and has been observed to potentially aid in skin permeability barrier recovery by preventing water loss, particularly when formulated with a negative zeta potential.

Research

Clinical Evidence

Medium confidence
Effective range 0.99–37%
Optimal

N/A

Key findings

  1. 01 The Cosmetic Ingredient Review Board (CIR) determined Barium Sulfate is safe and non-sensitizing for both rinse-off and leave-on products when formulated to be non-irritating, across concentrations of 0.99% to 37%.
  2. 02 Research published in the British Journal of Dermatology indicates that Barium Sulfate with a negative zeta potential may accelerate skin barrier recovery and mitigate epidermal hyperplasia following barrier disruption.

Transparency

Dusting Analysis

Not commonly dusted

The Formula

Formulation

Solubility
Unknown
Optimal pH 3.5 – 10
0 7 14

Stability

Barium Sulfate exhibits high thermal stability, with significant decomposition commencing at extreme temperatures between 1400-1600 °C. It is practically insoluble in water, ethanol, and most acids, yet it readily absorbs moisture. Its suspension stability is optimally maintained within a pH range of 3.5 to 10.0.

Synergies

  • Enhances light-diffusing effects when combined with Titanium Dioxide to minimize the appearance of wrinkles.

Conflicts

  • Irritating sulfuric acid impurities (addressed by utilizing the synthetic form of Barium Sulfate).
  • Irritating salts of sulfuric acid, such as sodium sulfate.

Safety

Safety Profile

CIR Status
Safe as used with restrictions
Max tested
37%
Sensitization risk Low

The Cosmetic Ingredient Review (CIR) Expert Panel concluded that Barium Sulfate is safe for cosmetic use at concentrations from 0.99% to 37% in both rinse-off and leave-on products. This safety is contingent on using the synthetic form to avoid irritating sulfuric acid impurities and ensuring the final product is non-irritating. While generalized hazard statements exist, the CIR specifically found it non-sensitizing when properly formulated. The FDA delisted CI 77120 as a cosmetic color additive in 1975, but it remains recognized for its colorant and opacifying functions under the EC Cosmetics Regulation.

Your Skin

Skin Compatibility

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

Our Assessment

Verdict

Valuable

CI 77120 is a valuable multifunctional ingredient, offering significant aesthetic contributions as a white pigment and opacifier, while also providing benefits through moisture absorption and potential support for skin barrier integrity, all within established safe concentrations.

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