Iron oxides are inorganic mineral pigments (red, yellow, black) widely used in cosmetics to impart color and provide some visible-light and UV protection in tinted sunscreens and foundations. They are valued for their stability, opacity, and low reactivity.
| Reported effect | How often | Notes |
|---|---|---|
| Allergic contact dermatitis | Rare | Sensitization to iron oxides themselves is uncommon; reactions are often due to other formulation components. |
| Skin irritation | Rare | Generally well tolerated; minor irritation may occur in sensitive individuals. |
| Pigmented contact dermatitis | Very rare | Rare reports of pigment-related skin discoloration in susceptible individuals. |
Frequencies reflect typical cosmetic use reported in the literature, not a guarantee for your skin.