CI 12490
What is CI 12490?
CI 12490, also called Pigment Red 122, belongs to the quinacridone class of synthetic organic pigments prized for their brilliance and durability. Originating from chemical synthesis processes developed in the mid-20th century, it appears in makeup products such as lip colors, blushes, eyeshadows, and tinted creams. This insoluble pigment particles disperse within formulations to provide consistent, fade-resistant magenta-red shades that withstand light, heat, and pH variations. Unlike dyes that dissolve and potentially stain, CI 12490 remains on the product's surface and skin exterior, enabling even application and batch-to-batch uniformity without altering skin texture or absorption.
Roles in Formulation
This ingredient serves the following purposes in cosmetic formulations:
Benefits
Offers vibrant, long-lasting red-violet hues for eye-catching cosmetic finishes.
Maintains color stability against light and oxidation for product reliability.
Rated non-comedogenic, minimizing pore clogging in colored skincare.
Who It's For
A quick guide for who this ingredient may suit (and who should be cautious).
| Who May Benefit | Who Should Avoid |
|---|---|
| Makeup users desiring intense, durable pigmentation. | People sensitive to synthetic color pigments. |
| Individuals seeking uniform shades in lip and cheek products. | Users preferring mineral or natural-based colorants. |
| Those with acne-prone skin needing low-comedogenic colorants. | Those wary of ingredients with moderate EWG concern ratings. |
Safety Notes
- EWG scores it 5 for limited data and possible impurities; purity matters.
- Cosmetic reviews affirm safety in approved uses with impurity limits.
Frequently Asked Questions about CI 12490
What role does CI 12490 play in skincare?
It acts as a colorant, adding red-violet pigment to products like tints and blushes for visual appeal.
Is CI 12490 comedogenic?
It carries a comedogenic rating of 0, indicating low likelihood of pore blockage.
How safe is CI 12490 overall?
Rated moderate concern by EWG; safe per reviews when meeting purity standards.