Colorant
BISMUTH CITRATE
Safety score · 0–100
Moderate
Derived from EU CosIng regulatory status, PubChem hazard data and published research. How we score.
About
A bismuth salt used to gradually darken grey hair (it reacts with hair-keratin sulfur to form dark deposits). EU permits up to 0.5% in hair products only — never in eye, lip or oral products.
Function
Skin benefits
- Used as a hair-dye gradual-darkener
- Bismuth salts are very low oral toxicity
- Provides metallic colour effect
Known concerns
- EU restricts bismuth citrate to hair products at max 0.5%
- Forms dark stains on skin and bathroom surfaces
- Cannot be used in mixtures with thiol-based perms
- Not for products contacting mucous membranes
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.