Mineral

Iron Oxide

Natural mineral pigment is the basis of all colors in foundation, blush, and highlighter. Iron oxide exists in three colors (red, yellow, black), which in combination provide the entire spectrum of skin tones.

Mineral pigmentFoundationCI colorsskin tone

✓ Safe

Comedogenic Rating

0/5

Irritation Potential

0/5

What is it?

Iron Oxides have three main forms: CI 77491 (red, Fe₂O₃), CI 77492 (yellow, FeO·OH), CI 77499 (black, Fe₃O₄). Natural or synthetic (for cosmetics — synthetic, purer). Different combinations provide the entire spectrum from pink to brown. In INCI: Iron Oxides or CI 77491/77492/77499.

Base pigment in foundations, blushes, bronzers, eyeshadows, and lipsticks. One of the oldest cosmetic pigments in human history.

Key Benefits

✦

The entire spectrum of skin tones

Three colors (R+Y+B) in different proportions — pink, beige, brown, gold, terra cotta. The basis of the match shade system in any foundation.

◈

Safe mineral pigment

Chemically inert mineral — does not penetrate the skin, does not irritate, does not cause allergies. One of the safest pigments, approved by the FDA and EU for all areas of skin and eyes.

✧

Additional protection from visible light and HEV

Iron oxide absorbs HEV (high energy visible, "blue light") and part of the visible spectrum — products with iron oxide + SPF provide broader protection than pure UV filters.

Suitable for

Suitable for all skin types (decorative cosmetics)

Main Actions

✓ Pigmentation✓ Skin tones✓ Mineral color✓ Protection from HEV

CI numbers on the packaging

CI 77491 = red iron oxide. CI 77492 = yellow. CI 77499 = black. If you see these CI numbers in the composition — it is iron oxide. It may also be listed as 'Iron Oxides' without specifying the type.

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