BARIUM SULFATE
Overview
BARIUM SULFATE is a cosmetic ingredient primarily used for COLORANT. It is commonly found in various cosmetic formulations and serves important functions in personal care products.
Also known as: Barite, Blanc Fixe, Permanent White, CI 77120
Key Benefits
Barium sulfate provides no active skin benefits. Its extreme insolubility renders it biologically inert on the skin surface, where it functions purely as an opacifier and colorant (white pigment).
Skin Compatibility Ratings
Comedogenic Rating
Chemically inert mineral pigment; no comedogenic potential.
Source: CIR Safety Assessment (2017)
Irritancy Rating
Non-irritating when used as opacifier or colorant.
Source: CIR Safety Assessment (2017)
Typical Use Concentration
Range
1β30%
Optimal
5β15%
Used as a white pigment and opacifier in cosmetic formulations.
Works Well With / Avoid
Works Well With
Unlike many barium compounds, barium sulfate is considered safe due to its extreme insolubility β it cannot be absorbed through the skin. Do not confuse with soluble barium salts (which are toxic).
Commonly Found In
Global Regulation Summary
Overview of current status across major international markets.
Detailed Regional Status
| Region | Status | Max Conc. | Conditions | Source |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| πͺπΊ EU | Allowed | - | - | Official β |
| πΊπΈ USA | Allowed | - | - | Official β |
| π―π΅ Japan | Allowed | - | - | Official β |
| π°π· Korea | Unknown | - | - | Official β |
| π¬π§ UK | Banned | - | Follows EU regulations (IV/122) | Official β |
π Why Regulations Differ
Barium sulfate is specifically allowed where many other barium compounds are prohibited, because its extreme insolubility prevents systemic absorption. The EU, US, and Japan permit its use as a colorant.
Regulation Analysis
Regional Agreement
Banned in UK but allowed in EU, USA, Japan.
Category Comparison
There are 193 ingredients in the COLORANT category. 100% are banned in at least one major market.
Strictness Ranking
πΏ Natural Sources
Found in nature as the mineral barite (or baryte). Major deposits exist in China, India, Morocco, and the United States. Often found near lead and zinc ores.
π How It's Made
Mined from barite deposits and purified by washing and flotation. Synthetic barium sulfate (blanc fixe) is produced by reacting barium sulfide with sulfuric acid for higher purity applications.
π Uses in Cosmetics
Used in cosmetic products primarily for colorant, opacifying.
π¬ Other Applications
Widely used in medical imaging (barium swallow/enema), as a weighting agent in oil and gas drilling muds, in white paint pigments, paper coatings, and as radiation shielding in concrete.
π‘ Fun Facts
- β’ If you've ever had a 'barium swallow' medical test, you drank a barium sulfate suspension β it's opaque to X-rays, making your digestive tract visible
- β’ Despite barium compounds generally being toxic, barium sulfate is so insoluble that it passes through the body without being absorbed
- β’ It's the main component of the white pigment 'lithopone' used in paints since the 19th century
Related Skin Concerns
Data Sources
- β’ EU CosIng database
- β’ CIR Final Report on Barium Sulfate
- β’ FDA cosmetic ingredient database
Last data verification: 2026-04-12
Related Ingredients
ALUMINUM SILICATE
KAOLIN
MAGNESIUM CARBONATE
TiO2
TITANIUM DIOXIDE
ALUMINUM STEARATE
CALCIUM CARBONATE
Learn More
Frequently Asked Questions
What is BARIUM SULFATE used for in cosmetics?
BARIUM SULFATE is primarily used for colorant in cosmetic products. It also serves as opacifying. The ingredient is commonly found in makeup products, hair dyes, and colored cosmetics.
Which countries regulate BARIUM SULFATE?
BARIUM SULFATE is banned in UK. The ingredient is freely allowed in EU, JP, US.
Are there alternatives to BARIUM SULFATE?
Due to regulatory restrictions on BARIUM SULFATE, cosmetic manufacturers often use alternative ingredients with similar functions. For colorant, alternatives may include other approved ingredients in the same category. Consult product labels for specific formulations, and look for products compliant with your region's regulations.
Where can I find official regulation information about BARIUM SULFATE?
Official information about BARIUM SULFATE regulations can be found on government websites: EU CosIng database, US FDA Cosmetics page, Japan MHLW cosmetics standards, UK Government cosmetics guidance, and Korea MFDS. Always verify regulatory status with these official sources before making formulation decisions.
Disclaimer
The information on this website is for educational and informational purposes only and is not intended as medical advice. While we strive for accuracy based on official government databases, cosmetic regulations change frequently. Always consult with a qualified professional or refer to the latest official regulatory documents for compliance. We are not responsible for any actions taken based on the information provided here.