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D&C Red No. 27 Aluminum Lake

Medically reviewed by Drugs.com. Last updated on Jun 3, 2024.

Excipient (pharmacologically inactive substance)

What is it?

D&C Red No. 27 Aluminum Lake is a drug and cosmetic synthetic dye. The FDA lists it as a safe additive for drugs and cosmetics as per FDA standards. In cosmetics, it can be used externally and in general cosmetics, including lipsticks and in cosmetics close to the eye.[1]

According to the FDA, lakes are formed by reacting straight dyes (such as D&C Red No. 27) with precipitants and salts. Aluminum is often a component. Lakes may be used as color additives for tablet coatings due to their stability, and may also be used for cosmetics such as eye shadows or lipsticks.[2] Its use in coloring pharmaceuticals and cosmetics may only be of quantities allowable by the FDA.

Some examples of medications containing D&C Red No. 27 Aluminum Lake

References

  1. U.S. Food and Drug Administration (FDA). Cosmetics. Color Additives Permitted for Use. Accessed 8/20/2012. http://www.fda.gov/Cosmetics/GuidanceComplianceRegulatoryInformation/VoluntaryCosmeticsRegistrationProgramVCRP/OnlineRegistration/ucm109084.htm
  2. U.S. Food and Drug Administration. Color Additives and Cosmetics. Updated 4/29/2007. Accessed 8/20/2012. http://www.fda.gov/ForIndustry/ColorAdditives/ColorAdditivesinSpecificProducts/InCosmetics/ucm110032.htm

Further information

Always consult your healthcare provider to ensure the information displayed on this page applies to your personal circumstances.