Is FD&C Blue No. 1 safe in cosmetics?

The FDA has approved Blue No. 1 (brilliant blue) for cosmetic use. Published safety reviews have not raised major toxicity concerns at the concentrations used in beauty products.

Can Blue No. 1 stain skin?

Blue No. 1 is designed to color products and may tint skin temporarily, but it will wash off with normal cleansing and does not cause permanent staining.

colorant

FD&C Blue No. 1

Watch if sensitive·Strong evidence·INCI: CI 42090

An FDA-approved synthetic colorant used in cosmetics to impart a blue hue. Blue dye sensitivity is rare but documented in a small subset of individuals. Generally well tolerated at regulated cosmetic levels.

Questions

Is FD&C Blue No. 1 safe in cosmetics?: The FDA has approved Blue No. 1 (brilliant blue) for cosmetic use. Published safety reviews have not raised major toxicity concerns at the concentrations used in beauty products.
Can Blue No. 1 stain skin?: Blue No. 1 is designed to color products and may tint skin temporarily, but it will wash off with normal cleansing and does not cause permanent staining.

Products with FD&C Blue No. 1

References

Cosmetic information for general education, not medical advice. A verdict is a reading of the published evidence, never a guarantee for your skin: any ingredient can irritate someone, so patch test new products and see a professional if you react. Concern is graded on cited evidence, never on hazard-score lists. See how we score.