Colorant
BASIC VIOLET 10
Safety score · 0–100
Avoid
Derived from EU CosIng regulatory status, PubChem hazard data and published research. How we score.
About
Basic Violet 10 (Rhodamine B) — EU-banned for cosmetic use as a colorant. Genotoxicity evidence and food-ban history warrant avoidance.
Basic Violet 10 (CI 45170, Rhodamine B, CAS 81-88-9) is a xanthene dye historically used as a textile and cosmetic colorant. It is NOT listed on the EU Cosmetics Regulation Annex IV (permitted colorants), so it cannot legally be used as a cosmetic colorant in the EU; related variants appear on Annex II (prohibited). Rhodamine B is banned as a food colorant in the US and EU, and peer-reviewed animal studies show genotoxic and carcinogenic signals. US FDA does not list it among approved cosmetic color additives. Persistent dyes on compromised skin can be systemically absorbed.
Function
Skin benefits
- Intense violet colorant
- Historical textile and cosmetic use
Known concerns
- Rhodamine B — EU cosmetics Annex II (prohibited) in leave-on; not permitted as cosmetic colorant generally
- Genotoxicity and carcinogenicity evidence in animal studies
- Banned food colorant in US/EU
- Persistent dye — systemic absorption possible through compromised skin
References
EU CosIng database
European Commission cosmetic ingredient registry — regulatory status, restrictions, authorised functions.
Related colorants
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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.