COLOR INDEX (CI)

The Color Index (CI) identifies colorants by numbers that identify specific color pigments, such as CI 77007 for ultramarine blue. According to EU Cosmetics Regulation (EC) No. 1223/2009, colorants in cosmetic products are ingredients that are primarily used to impart color to cosmetic products or body parts. Annex IV of the regulation lists approved colorants that are subject to strict safety tests before they can be used. In addition, the regulation defines specific maximum concentrations and permitted areas of use for some colorants in order to ensure the safety of their use in cosmetic products. (1,2)

(1) European Union. (2009). Regulation (EC) No 1223/2009 of the European Parliament and of the Council of November 30, 2009 on cosmetic products. 

(2) Wich, E. (1977). The Color Index. Color Research and Application, 2, 77-80.

(3) Bährle-Rapp, M. (2012). Springer Lexikon Kosmetik und Körperpflege. 4th revised and expanded edition. Springer.