Science
Mechanism of Action
This ingredient functions by depositing its red pigment onto the surface of products, skin, nails, or hair, thereby delivering an aesthetic coloring effect.
Research
Clinical Evidence
Low confidenceN/A
Key findings
- 01 The SCCS Opinion on HC Red No. 17 (B120) assessed its safety, deeming it safe at concentrations up to 0.5% in non-oxidative hair colouring products, with a note on potential skin sensitisation.
Transparency
Dusting Analysis
The Formula
Formulation
Stability
HC Red No. 17 exhibits better stability than many natural colorants, but its heat resistance is limited, with high temperatures potentially causing fading. For optimal longevity, storage at room temperature, away from direct sunlight and heat, is recommended.
Conflicts
- Nitrosating agents, as it is a tertiary amine and should maintain a nitrosamine content below 50 ppb.
- High heat during the mixing or processing phase, which can degrade the color.
- Risk of reductive cleavage of its azo group, potentially releasing carcinogenic metabolites like 4-aminoazobenzene and aniline.
Safety
Safety Profile
The SCCS indicates that skin sensitizing potential cannot be excluded. Regulatory bodies such as the FDA and Health Canada impose strict restrictions: the FDA prohibits its use in the eye area or on lips, and Health Canada restricts it to topical use only, disallowing its inclusion in products intended for mucosal membranes (eyes, nose, mouth). There is a concern for the formation of nitrosamines when used with nitrosating agents, and potential release of carcinogenic metabolites through azo group cleavage.
Your Skin
Skin Compatibility
Our Assessment
Verdict
While effective as a colorant, HC Red No. 17 carries significant safety concerns including potential sensitization, regulatory restrictions on usage areas, and the risk of carcinogenic metabolite formation, making its inclusion in precision skincare questionable.
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