Science
Mechanism of Action
The primary function of Solvent Red 72 is to provide a red/orange color to formulations. There is no identified beneficial mechanism of action on the skin; instead, its presence is consistently associated with irritant responses.
Research
Clinical Evidence
Low confidenceN/A
Transparency
Dusting Analysis
The Formula
Formulation
Stability
Solvent Red 72 demonstrates slight solubility in water but readily dissolves in organic solvents such as ethanol and acetone, showing good dispersibility in glycerol and liquid paraffin. Its color can be sensitive to pH, particularly with strong bases like sodium hydroxide, which causes an aqueous solution to develop a 'red edge.' For optimal stability in formulated products, it should be stored between -5 °C and 40 °C, protected from heat and direct sunlight.
Conflicts
- Strong bases
- Strong oxidizing agents
Safety
Safety Profile
Identified as D&C Orange No. 6, Solvent Red 72 is currently not approved by the FDA for use in either cosmetic or drug products, with its status listed as 'None' after former use. Reports from the EWG, Agency for Toxic Substances and Disease Registry, and EPA consistently indicate a high risk to human health, noting it causes skin irritation, serious eye irritation, and damage to the skin. It is further classified as toxic if swallowed (H301), irritating to skin (H315), and causing serious eye irritation (H319).
Your Skin
Skin Compatibility
Our Assessment
Verdict
Due to its explicit disapproval by the FDA for cosmetic use, coupled with high irritancy potential and documented toxicity, Solvent Red 72 should be entirely avoided in skincare formulations.
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References
Sources