Red 21 (CI 45380)

RED

6/10

Concern level

Moderate concern

Synthetic xanthene colorant used to impart red/pink color in cosmetics; FDA lists D&C Red No. 21 as permanently listed for drugs and cosmetics, and COSMILE identifies it as CI 45380. ([hfpappexternal.fda.gov](https://www.hfpappexternal.fda.gov/scripts/fdcc/index.cfm?id=DCRed21&set=ColorAdditives&utm_source=openai))

Pore-clogging

Non-comedogenic

Pregnancy

Safe

Regulatory

No data

Concerns

Allergen

Chemical Properties

Molecular Weight

691.85 g/mol

Typical Concentration

0.00% - 1.00%

CAS Number: 15086-94-9

Skin Type Compatibility

dry skin7/10

oily skin7/10

sensitive skin4/10

acne prone9/10

mature skin7/10

normal skin8/10

Interactions

incompatible with: No specific chemical incompatibilities are well established; avoid use in products meant for the eye area unless the color additive is expressly permitted for that use. ([hfpappexternal.fda.gov](https://www.hfpappexternal.fda.gov/scripts/fdcc/index.cfm?id=DCRed21&set=ColorAdditives&utm_source=openai))

Risks & Warnings

Main concerns are staining and potential irritation or sensitivity in very reactive users. FDA color additives permitted for cosmetics are not allowed in the eye area unless specifically listed for that use, and certified colors require batch certification. ([hfpappexternal.fda.gov](https://www.hfpappexternal.fda.gov/scripts/fdcc/index.cfm?id=DCRed21&set=ColorAdditives&utm_source=openai))

Vegan Cruelty-Free