Skip to content

Banned dye (CMR)

BASIC VIOLET 3

CAS 548-62-9
10

Safety score · 0–100

Avoid

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

Basic Violet 3 (gentian violet, CI 42555) is a triarylmethane dye prohibited in EU cosmetics due to suspected carcinogenicity, genotoxic concerns, environmental hazards and severe irritation potential.

Skin benefits

  • Historically used as a triarylmethane dye for textiles and biological staining
  • Not intended for skin contact applications

Known concerns

  • Listed as Category 2 carcinogen by IARC and suspected genotoxin
  • Prohibited in EU cosmetics under Annex II (CI 42555 / Gentian Violet)
  • Causes severe skin and eye irritation
  • Toxic to aquatic organisms with long-term effects

References

EU

EU CosIng database

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

Same plant / compound family

32
BASIC VIOLET 1
Other
 10
BASIC VIOLET 10
Banned synthetic dye
 12
BASIC VIOLET 11:1
Colorant
 4
BASIC VIOLET 14
Colorant
 30
BASIC VIOLET 16
Colorant
 8
BASIC VIOLET 2
Banned

Check your shelf

Find BASIC VIOLET 3 in your products.

Scan any cosmetic product with LuxSense to see if it contains BASIC VIOLET 3 and get a full ingredient breakdown with safety scores.

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