
General Description
D&C Yellow 8 is a synthetic, water-soluble colorant widely used in the cosmetic and personal care industry to impart bright yellow hues to a variety of products. Known for its high stability, vibrant color, and safety in regulated applications, D&C Yellow 8 is approved for use in cosmetics applied to the lips and external skin, as well as in nail products and hair dyes under regulatory guidelines. It provides consistent, uniform coloration and is compatible with a wide range of formulation types, including creams, lotions, gels, and liquid-based products.
Uses in the Cosmetics Industry
D&C Yellow 8 is commonly incorporated into formulations for its vivid yellow color and aesthetic appeal. Typical applications include:
- Lipsticks, Lip Glosses & Lip Balms: Adds bright, eye-catching color while maintaining product stability.
- Skincare Products: Used in creams, lotions, and serums to provide appealing visual tones.
- Hair Care Products & Dyes: Helps achieve specific shades in hair coloring systems.
- Nail Lacquers & Polishes: Provides uniform, vibrant yellow color.
Many cosmetic manufacturers Buy D&C Yellow 8 in bulk to ensure consistent color performance across production batches. Its high solubility and compatibility with other colorants make it a preferred choice for professional formulators.
Side Effects & Hazards
D&C Yellow 8 is generally considered safe when used according to regulatory guidelines, but certain precautions apply:
- Skin & Eye Irritation: Rarely, sensitive individuals may experience mild irritation upon direct contact with concentrated forms.
- Allergic Reactions: Though uncommon, patch testing is recommended when developing new products.
- Regulatory Compliance: Must be used within concentration limits set by governing authorities such as the FDA or EU for specific applications.
For cosmetic brands, ensuring that D&C Yellow 8 is sourced from reputable suppliers guarantees high purity, regulatory compliance, and color consistency for finished products.
CAS Number: 1934-21-0
INCI: D&C Yellow No. 8
Composition:D&C Yellow 8 is composed of synthetic monoazo dye compounds used primarily as a colorant in cosmetics, personal care products, and pharmaceuticals. It provides bright yellow coloration in formulations such as lipsticks, soaps, and powders.
Purity Grade: Cosmetic/Pharmaceutical Grade (Typically ≥ 85–90% purity; conforms to FD&C/D&C regulations)
Appearance: Orange to yellow powder
Solubility:Soluble in water; slightly soluble in alcohol; insoluble in oils
Preservation:Self-stable; does not require additional preservatives under standard storage conditions
Storage:Store in a tightly sealed container in a cool, dry, and well-ventilated area, protected from light and moisture
Raw Material Sources:Synthesized chemically from aromatic amines and azo coupling agents (purely synthetic)
Manufacture:Produced through diazotization of aromatic amines followed by azo coupling, purification, and milling to a fine powder suitable for cosmetic use
Animal Testing: Not animal tested
GMO: GMO-free (fully synthetic)
Vegan: Does not contain animal-derived components
Proposition:D&C Yellow 8 complies with EU and U.S. FDA regulations for cosmetic colorants and is approved for use in specific rinse-off and leave-on cosmetic products.
Warning:For external use only. Avoid inhalation of powder and contact with eyes. Use appropriate personal protective equipment when handling in bulk.
Formulator’s Queries, We Answered
1) What are the CAS number, INCI name, and identity of D&C Yellow 8?
CAS Number: 518‑47‑8
INCI Name: CI 45350 (Yellow 8)
D&C Yellow 8 is a synthetic water‑soluble color additive used for imparting yellow color in cosmetic, personal care, and pharmaceutical products
2) What is D&C Yellow 8 chemical and how is it used?
D&C Yellow 8 is a high‑purity synthetic dye/color additive approved for use in external cosmetic and personal care products. It’s typically used to add a consistent yellow color to formulations such as lipsticks, creams, lotions, shampoos, and bath products.
3) What are the common applications of D&C Yellow 8 in cosmetics and personal care?
D&C Yellow 8 is used in:
- Lip products (lipsticks, glosses)
- Skin care (creams, lotions, gels)
- Hair care (shampoos, conditioners)
- Bath and body products (soaps, body washes)
to give a consistent yellow hue and enhance visual appeal
4) What is the typical usage range for D&C Yellow 8 in formulations?
The usage concentration depends on product type and desired color intensity. In cosmetics, it is generally used at low levels (often <0.05%), ensuring safety and compliance with regulations.
5) Is D&C Yellow 8 approved and safe to use in personal care products?
Yes—D&C Yellow 8 is permitted for use in externally applied cosmetics when used in amounts consistent with good manufacturing practice, and all batches are subject to regulatory certification and quality specifications.