Yellow 5 is a synthetic lemon-yellow azo dye primarily utilized to enhance the aesthetic appeal of cosmetic formulations. It provides a consistent, vibrant hue and is frequently blended with other pigments to achieve specific color profiles.
- INCI Name:
- Yellow 5 (or CI 19140)
- Chemical/Scientific Name:
- Trisodium 5-hydroxy-1-(4-sulfonatophenyl)-4-(4-sulfonatophenylazo)-H-pyrazole-3-carboxylate
- Common Aliases:
- Tartrazine, Acid Yellow 23, FD&C Yellow No. 5
| Category: | Colors |
| Source Origin: | Synthetic (Azo dye) |
| Comedogenic Rating: | 0 |
| Primary Industries: | Cosmetics, Food, Pharmaceuticals |
| Solubility: | Water-soluble |
At a Glance: Properties & Effects
| Formula Stability | |
| Irritation Risk | |
| Texture Enhancement |
Primary Benefits:
- Provides a bright, reproducible lemon-yellow color to products.
- Offers high water solubility, making it ideal for aqueous solutions like toners and cleansers.
- Enables formulators to create a wide spectrum of colors through blending.
Potential Risks:
- May cause rare allergic reactions or contact dermatitis in individuals sensitive to azo dyes.
- Requires specific labeling in some regions due to its status as a potential allergen in food, though topical risk is significantly lower.
Biological Action & Cosmetic Profile
This colorant functions as a chromophore, absorbing light in the visible spectrum—specifically in the 425–430 nm range—to reflect a yellow wavelength. Unlike active ingredients that penetrate the stratum corneum to alter skin physiology, Yellow 5 remains on the surface or within the product matrix. Its role is strictly organoleptic, ensuring the cosmetic product is visually appealing and distinguishable to the consumer.
Synthetic dyes like this one offer superior stability compared to many natural alternatives, which often degrade when exposed to light or pH fluctuations. Formulators typically use it in concentrations ranging from 0.001% to 0.1%. When combined with Aqua and stabilizers like Disodium Edta, the dye maintains its vibrancy throughout the product’s shelf life.
Interaction with other pigments allows for a diverse palette. For instance, mixing Yellow 5 with Blue 1 creates various shades of green, while pairing it with Iron Oxides can adjust the warmth of foundations or concealers. In opaque formulations, it is frequently used alongside Titanium Dioxide or Mica to create creamy or pearlescent finishes.
Broader Applications & Origins
Derived originally from coal tar but now synthesized from petroleum byproducts, Yellow 5 is one of the most widely used artificial colors globally. Its versatility extends beyond skincare into hair dyes, oral care, and decorative cosmetics. Because it is highly soluble in water and Glycerin, it is a staple in “clear” products that require a slight tint without clouding the formula.
Routine Integration
Synergies:
- Chelating Agents: Ingredients like Sodium Phytate help prevent metal ions from causing color shifts or precipitation of the dye.
- pH Adjusters: Maintaining a stable environment with Citric Acid or Sodium Hydroxide ensures the color remains true to its intended shade.
Clinical Consensus & Safety
The Cosmetic Ingredient Review (CIR) Expert Panel and the European Scientific Committee on Consumer Safety (SCCS) have repeatedly evaluated Yellow 5, concluding it is safe for use in cosmetics when following established concentration limits. While tartrazine is a known trigger for urticaria (hives) in a small percentage of the population when ingested, clinical evidence suggests that topical application rarely induces systemic reactions. However, dermatologists advise those with known azo dye sensitivities to perform a patch test when using leave-on products containing this colorant.
Is Yellow 5 safe for use around the eyes?
In the United States, the FDA permits the use of FD&C Yellow No. 5 in cosmetics generally, including those intended for the eye area. Always check local regulatory Annexes, as specific purity requirements (such as lead and arsenic limits) must be met for eye-area certification.
Will Yellow 5 stain my skin?
At the very low concentrations found in standard skincare and cleansers, Yellow 5 does not stain the skin. It is designed to be rinsed away or to remain suspended in a film-forming layer that does not migrate into the pores.
Is this ingredient vegan?
Yes, Yellow 5 is a synthetic chemical produced through organic synthesis and does not contain animal-derived components, making it suitable for vegan formulations.