CI 15985
Overview
CI 15985 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: Sunset Yellow FCF, FD&C Yellow No. 6, Yellow 6, Food Yellow 3, E110
Key Benefits
CI 15985 (Sunset Yellow) provides no skin benefits. It functions solely as a colorant to impart yellow-orange color to cosmetic products.
Skin Compatibility Ratings
Comedogenic Rating
Water-soluble azo dye; no comedogenic potential as colorant.
Source: CIR Safety Assessment β Yellow 6 (CI 15985)
Irritancy Rating
Generally well-tolerated; rare contact sensitization reported in patch test studies.
Source: EU SCCS/1199/08 β Opinion on CI 15985
Typical Use Concentration
Range
Up to regulatory colorant limits
Optimal
Minimum needed for desired color
Used at minimum effective concentrations to achieve target color.
Works Well With / Avoid
Works Well With
Use With Caution
Synthetic azo dye. EU Annex IV approved colorant. US FDA certifies as FD&C Yellow No. 6. The Southampton Study (2007) found possible links to childhood hyperactivity when consumed β primarily a concern for food use, not topical application.
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/31) | Official β |
π Why Regulations Differ
EU allows CI 15985 as a cosmetic colorant (Annex IV). The UK post-Brexit status differs. US FDA certifies it as FD&C Yellow No. 6 for approved uses. Japan approves it 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
Synthetic azo dye derived from petroleum. Not found in nature.
π How It's Made
Synthesized through diazotization and coupling reactions. Also known as Sunset Yellow FCF or Yellow 6.
π Uses in Cosmetics
Orange-yellow colorant in cosmetics. One of the six colors linked to childhood hyperactivity in the Southampton Study (2007). EU requires warning label when used in foods.
π¬ Other Applications
Food coloring (E110) in snacks, beverages, and desserts. Banned in Norway and Finland for food use.
π‘ Fun Facts
- β’ The Southampton Study (2007) found a possible link between six artificial colors (including Sunset Yellow) and increased hyperactivity in children
- β’ Despite controversy, it remains one of the most widely used synthetic food colors in the US
- β’ EU regulation requires products containing it to carry the label: 'May have an adverse effect on activity and attention in children'
Data Sources
- β’ EU CosIng database β Annex IV
- β’ FDA β FD&C Yellow No. 6 listing
- β’ EFSA opinion on Sunset Yellow (E110)
Last data verification: 2026-04-12
Related Ingredients
ALUMINUM SILICATE
ALUMINUM STEARATE
BARIUM SULFATE
CALCIUM STEARATE
CHROMIUM
GOLD
Learn More
Frequently Asked Questions
What is CI 15985 used for in cosmetics?
CI 15985 is primarily used for colorant in cosmetic products. The ingredient is commonly found in makeup products, hair dyes, and colored cosmetics.
Which countries regulate CI 15985?
CI 15985 is banned in UK. The ingredient is freely allowed in EU, JP, US.
Are there alternatives to CI 15985?
Due to regulatory restrictions on CI 15985, 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 CI 15985?
Official information about CI 15985 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.