Ingredient dictionary

Iron Oxides

Also listed as: CI 77491, CI 77492, CI 77499

A group of mineral pigments made from iron and oxygen, used to give color in makeup, sunscreen and skincare. It is on the label of 154 products in our library. Checked against our library November 6, 2026.

The catch: none for most people; check the full product list if your skin reacts easily.

What Iron Oxides does

Adds red, yellow or black color
Gives tinted sunscreens a soft shade
Adds earthy tone to brow products

Iron oxides are colors made from iron combined with oxygen. Some are mined from natural earth deposits, and others are made in a lab so the shade stays consistent from batch to batch. Red, yellow and black are the common types, and mixing them makes browns and other earthy tones. People have used iron-based earth pigments for thousands of years.

Formulators like iron oxides because they stay stable in light and air and do not fade quickly. They do not dissolve in water, so they stay spread out as tiny particles. In sunscreens they add a soft tint and help block some visible light. On the skin, they feel smooth and can give a slightly matte finish in powders and makeup.

Good for

Suits people who like tinted sunscreen, brow color or colored scrubs, and it is widely used across many skin tones.

Be careful if

Nothing in particular for most skin types.

Frequently asked questions

Are iron oxides safe for skin?

Iron oxides are widely used in cosmetics and are generally well tolerated. Like any colorant, a small number of people may react, so patch-test a new product first if your skin is sensitive.

What is the difference between red, yellow and black iron oxide?

Each one is a different form of iron oxide with its own color. Red adds warmth, yellow adds a soft golden tone, and black deepens shades. Makers blend them to match skin, brow or hair tones.