Color Additives Permitted for Use in Cosmetics

Color additives are subject to a strict system of approval under U.S. law [Federal Food, Drug, and Cosmetic Act (FD&C Act), sec. 721; 21 U.S.C. 379e]. Except in the case of coal-tar hair dyes, failure to meet US color additive requirements causes a cosmetic to be adulterated [FD&C Act, sec. 601(e); 21 U.S. Code 361(e)]. Color additive violations are a common reason for detaining imported cosmetic products offered for entry into this country, according to FDA.

FDA's “Color Additives and Cosmetics Fact Sheet” can be accessed here.

Color additives are the only “FDA-approved” cosmetic ingredient, but not all of them are approved for eye area use. Find out which colors are in “FDA”s Color Additives Permitted for Use in Cosmetics” by clicking here.