Ingredient
CI 18050
CI 18050 is flagged for pregnancy. The concern behind the strongest flag is absorbed into the body and common allergen.
- Acid Red 1
- Red 2G
- D&C Red No. 37
Verdict by profile
Truva checks every ingredient against six profiles. Jump to any of them for the full assessment.
- Strongest verdict
- Caution Advised
- Its verdict for pregnancy, the profile this one is worst in
- Profiles flagged
- 1 of 6
- Counting avoid, high risk and medium risk
- Irritancy
- 2 of 5
- Higher means more likely to sting or redden
CI 18050 and pregnancy
Caution Advised
- Absorbed into the body
- Common allergen
CI 18050 (Acid Red 1) is a synthetic azo dye used to provide red coloration in cosmetic products. Azo dyes are characterized by the presence of an azo group (-N=N-) in their chemical structure, which can potentially break down into aromatic amines in the body. The primary concern during pregnancy relates to limited safety data on azo dye exposure and potential metabolic breakdown products. While topical exposure from cosmetics is generally minimal, some absorption can occur, particularly through lips (if used in lipsticks) or damaged skin. Azo dyes as a class have raised concerns due to some members showing reproductive toxicity in animal studies, though specific data on CI 18050 during pregnancy is limited. The regulatory disagreement between the US (not approved) and EU (approved with restrictions) reflects this uncertainty. Due to the FDA's decision not to approve this colorant for US cosmetics and limited pregnancy-specific safety data, a cautious approach is warranted. Most obstetricians suggest minimizing exposure to ingredients with uncertain safety profiles during pregnancy, particularly in the first trimester. Consider products using alternative colorants that have clearer safety profiles during pregnancy.
CI 18050 and breastfeeding
Safe to Use
CI 18050 is a synthetic azo dye used for coloring cosmetic products. When used in makeup and topical products, absorption through intact skin is minimal, and the dye remains primarily on the surface. While specific breastfeeding safety data is limited, the topical, external use of cosmetic colorants presents minimal risk of transfer to breast milk. The molecular structure and typical use in makeup products suggest negligible systemic absorption. However, if used in lip products, there is a theoretical risk of ingestion through normal lip contact and licking. For breastfeeding women, external use in makeup (blush, eyeshadow) poses minimal concern. If using in lip products, avoid applying immediately before breastfeeding to prevent any incidental transfer to the infant. Overall, this ingredient is considered low-risk during breastfeeding when used as intended in cosmetics.
CI 18050 and postpartum
Safe to Use
- Common allergen
CI 18050 can be used in cosmetic products during the postpartum period for non-breastfeeding mothers. The main consideration is individual sensitivity to azo dyes, which can cause allergic contact dermatitis in some people. If you've used products with this colorant before without reaction, you can likely continue. However, hormonal changes during postpartum may temporarily increase skin sensitivity, so patch testing new products is advisable. The ingredient poses no specific postpartum-related concerns beyond general skin sensitivity.
CI 18050 and trying to conceive
Safe to Use
CI 18050 is a cosmetic colorant with minimal systemic absorption when used in typical makeup applications. While pregnancy data is limited, the TTC period presents fewer concerns because external cosmetic use results in negligible internal exposure. Women trying to conceive can use products containing this colorant without significant concern, particularly in products like blush or eyeshadow where absorption is minimal. If you prefer maximum caution, you might opt for alternative colorants with more established safety profiles, but this ingredient is not known to affect fertility or conception.
CI 18050 and PCOS
Safe to Use
CI 18050 is a synthetic colorant with no hormonal activity or effects on androgen levels, insulin sensitivity, or other metabolic aspects of PCOS. It functions purely as a cosmetic dye. The zero comedogenicity rating means this colorant will not clog pores or contribute to acne, making it suitable for women with PCOS who often struggle with acne-prone skin. As a color additive, it does not interact with hormones or affect PCOS symptoms. Women with PCOS can use products containing CI 18050 without concern for hormonal effects. The only consideration is individual sensitivity to azo dyes, which is not related to PCOS but to general allergic potential.
CI 18050 and general use
Safe to Use
- Common allergen
- Irritant
CI 18050 (Acid Red 1) is a synthetic azo dye used to impart red coloration to cosmetic products including makeup, personal care items, and some hair products. It provides vibrant, stable color in various formulations. The primary concern with this ingredient is allergic contact dermatitis, which can occur in individuals sensitive to azo dyes. The moderate irritancy rating (2/5) indicates it may cause mild irritation in some users, though most people tolerate it well. The zero comedogenicity means it won't clog pores or contribute to acne formation. Overall safety concerns are relatively minor for topical cosmetic use. The regulatory status of CI 18050 differs between regions: the FDA does not approve it for use in US cosmetics, while the EU permits its use with certain restrictions. This divergence reflects differing risk assessments rather than known serious toxicity. For most consumers using EU-approved products, the risk is low. Those with sensitive skin or dye allergies should be cautious and consider patch testing.
Everything else flagged for the same profiles
Related ingredients
Ingredients suggested in place of CI 18050, each one with its own page here.
Ingredients that raise the same concerns.
Where this came from
Truva summarises published guidance from bodies including ACOG, the FDA, the EU SCCS and the Cosmetic Ingredient Review. It has no access to your medical history and it is not a substitute for your doctor, dermatologist or midwife. These assessments have not been reviewed by a clinician, and nothing here is a diagnosis or a prescription. If you are pregnant, breastfeeding or being treated for PCOS, take the ingredient list to the person looking after you.
Assessment last pulled from the ingredient database on .
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A label has thirty of them. Truva reads the whole list at once and answers for the profile you set: pregnancy, breastfeeding, postpartum, trying to conceive, PCOS, or general use.
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