D&C Orange No. 4 (Ci 15510)

What is D&C Orange No. 4 (Ci 15510)?

D&C Orange No. 4, identified as CI 15510, is a synthetic azo dye created via chemical processes like diazotization of aromatic amines coupled with naphthol derivatives. This oil-soluble colorant receives FDA certification for drug and cosmetic applications, ensuring high purity standards. It belongs to the monoazo class, featuring a vibrant orange shade due to its chromophore structure that selectively absorbs blue-green light. Primarily employed in makeup categories such as lipsticks, nail enamels, and certain hair colorants, it dissolves in non-polar solvents to integrate seamlessly into oily bases. This enables even dispersion, batch-to-batch color uniformity, and resistance to fading during product use. In hair formulations, it contributes to shade development in oxidative or direct dye systems, binding to fibers for durable results.

Comedogenic Rating 0/5 Low risk of clogging pores
EWG Safety Rating 2-5 View on EWG →
PubChem View on PubChem →

Roles in Formulation

This ingredient serves the following purposes in cosmetic formulations:

Colorant
Provides or corrects color using dyes or pigments, helping achieve a consistent shade and visual appearance across batches and throughout wear.
Hair dyeing
Supports chemical color change of hair (e.g., oxidative dye development or bleaching), enabling shade transformation through controlled reactions on the fiber.
Hair colorant
Delivers hair color through dyes and/or pigments (direct or oxidative systems), producing a visible shade change and supporting coverage and longevity.

Benefits

Delivers reliable orange color to cosmetics for appealing visual effects.

Supports even shade consistency across product batches and application.

Facilitates hair color changes in dye systems without pore-clogging potential.

Who It's For

A quick guide for who this ingredient may suit (and who should be cautious).

Who May Benefit Who Should Avoid
People seeking vibrant color in lip and nail makeup.
Those allergic to azo dyes or synthetic colorants.
Hair color users wanting stable pigmentation.
Individuals with highly sensitive skin prone to reactions.
Acne-prone individuals preferring non-comedogenic colorants.
Users with eye-area sensitivities where restrictions apply.

Safety Notes

  • Certified by FDA for cosmetic use with strict purity controls.
  • EWG scores indicate low to moderate concerns; individual testing advised.

Frequently Asked Questions about D&C Orange No. 4 (Ci 15510)

What products commonly contain D&C Orange No. 4?

It appears in lipsticks, nail polishes, and hair dyes for orange shading.

Is D&C Orange No. 4 comedogenic?

It carries a comedogenic rating of 0, indicating low likelihood of pore blockage.

What are EWG ratings for this ingredient?

EWG assigns scores from 2 to 5, reflecting low to moderate hazard levels.