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CI 77499.

Valuable CAS 12227-89-3 / 1309-37-1 / 1317-61-9 / 1345-25-1 / 1345-27-3 / 52357-70-7 / COLORANT

CI 77499, also known as black iron oxide, is an inorganic pigment widely utilized in cosmetic formulations to impart a deep black color. Beyond its primary function as a colorant, it contributes to enhanced skin protection by effectively blocking high-energy visible light when incorporated into sunscreen formulations.

Cosmetic Colorant High-Energy Visible Light Blocker

Science

Functioning primarily as an inorganic pigment, CI 77499 delivers a black hue to cosmetic products due to its composition as ferrous-ferric oxide (predominantly Fe₃O₄). When integrated into sunscreens, particularly in synergy with other filters like zinc oxide, this iron oxide variant demonstrably blocks high-energy visible light, thereby offering additional photoprotection against environmental stressors.


Research

High confidence
Effective range 0.05–15%
Optimal

N/A


Transparency

Not commonly dusted

As an inorganic pigment, CI 77499 is not typically associated with 'dusting' related to active ingredient concentration thresholds or systemic safety concerns at higher percentages in the way certain other ingredients might be.


The Formula

Solubility
Oil
Optimal pH N/A
0 7 14

Stability

CI 77499 is insoluble in water and alcohol but readily dispersible in oil, silicone, and powder bases. It exhibits robust resistance to both light and heat, contributing to product longevity. Successful formulation hinges on meticulous dispersion techniques, including proper pigment wetting, strategic dispersant selection, and precise shear management. In oil-in-water emulsions, it is optimally pre-dispersed within the oil phase. Its shade can be influenced by factors such as mineral concentration, processing temperature, particle size, and pH. In specific systems containing electrolytes or certain polymers, CI 77499 may influence rheology and the overall suspension stability.

Synergies

  • Zinc Oxide (for enhanced high-energy visible light protection in sunscreens)

Safety

CIR Status
Not reviewed
Sensitization risk Low

CI 77499 is a permitted cosmetic colorant in the European Union under Regulation 1223/2009 (Annex IV, entry 137), adhering to specific purity criteria (E172). In the United States, the FDA deems only synthetically produced CI 77499 safe for cosmetic use, as natural forms may carry heavy metal contaminants. It is exempt from certification and permanently listed for general use in cosmetics.


Your Skin

Yes Normal
Yes Dry
Yes Oily
Yes Sensitive
Irritancy Low
Comedogenicity Low

Our Assessment

Valuable

CI 77499 is a valuable ingredient, expertly providing deep black coloration across a spectrum of cosmetic applications while offering a notable protective benefit against high-energy visible light in sunscreens.


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