UMBER
Other
Good
CAS Number: 12713-03-0
About UMBER
A natural inorganic earth pigment composed mainly of iron oxide, aluminium silicate, and manganese oxide, used as a colouring agent in cosmetic formulations.
Detailed Analysis
Umber is a naturally occurring brown-black earth pigment consisting primarily of iron oxide hydrate (goethite, FeOOH), aluminium silicate (kaolin), and manganese oxide/hydroxide compounds. As a cosmetic colorant, it is listed in the EU CosIng database and is approved for use across cosmetic categories including leave-on products. The primary safety concern relates to potential heavy metal content (particularly manganese, which can reach several percent in natural umber), which must comply with the heavy metal impurity limits set by the Cosmetics Regulation (EC) No 1223/2009.
Skin Benefits
- ✓ Natural mineral colorant
- ✓ Skin-safe inorganic pigment for cosmetics
Known Concerns
- ⚠ Naturally occurring manganese content requires heavy metal impurity monitoring
- ⚠ Must comply with EU Cosmetics Regulation heavy metal thresholds
Safety Score
Good
Based on EU regulatory data, published safety research, and ingredient function analysis.
References
EU CosIng Database
European Commission cosmetic ingredient registry
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