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ACANTHITE

52

Safety score · 0–100

Moderate

Derived from EU CosIng regulatory status, PubChem hazard data and published research. How we score.

About

A silver sulfide mineral that is the primary ore of silver — in cosmetics it's occasionally used as a colorant (CI 77520), but silver sulfides can darken on skin with pH changes and have limited modern use in skin care.

Acanthite (Ag2S) is the low-temperature crystalline form of silver sulfide, one of the most important silver ores. In cosmetics it appears under CI 77520 as a CI (Colour Index) approved inorganic pigment for use in decorative cosmetics only, not in skin care. Silver sulfide is photosensitive and can decompose under UV exposure, potentially darkening on skin. While metallic silver has antimicrobial properties, silver sulfide has limited cosmetic utility and is rarely used in contemporary formulations. No strong toxicity data exists, but its use is largely restricted to decorative mineral makeup at low concentrations.

Skin benefits

  • Inorganic colorant for mineral makeup
  • Antimicrobial metallic silver trace presence

Known concerns

  • Photosensitivity — may darken on skin with UV exposure
  • Limited to decorative/colorant use in cosmetics
  • Obsolete ingredient in modern skin care formulations

References

EU

EU CosIng database

European Commission cosmetic ingredient registry — regulatory status, restrictions, authorised functions.

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This profile is for educational purposes and does not constitute medical advice. Regulatory status and scientific understanding evolve — always read the physical product label and consult a healthcare professional for personal concerns.