Iron oxides are naturally occurring mineral pigments found throughout the earth’s crust, responsible for many of the rich reds, warm yellows, deep browns, and dark blacks seen in soils, rocks, and clay deposits around the world. In cosmetics and soap making, iron oxides are used as colorants — they are stable, non-bleeding, and safe for use on the skin. Cosmetic-grade iron oxides are synthetically produced to ensure purity and consistency, free from the heavy metal contaminants that can sometimes be found in raw mined pigments.
In cold process soap, iron oxides are a popular choice for achieving bold, reliable color. They hold up well through the high-pH saponification process, resist fading, and won’t bleed or migrate between layers — making them ideal for intricate swirled or layered designs. A small amount goes a long way, and they can be blended to create a wide range of earthy, warm, and dramatic hues.
Iron oxides are considered among the safest colorants available for personal care products. They are approved by the FDA for cosmetic use, including for products used near the eyes, and are widely accepted in clean beauty formulations. Whether contributing a deep terracotta, a sun-warmed ochre, or a rich espresso brown to a bar of soap, iron oxides bring the timeless beauty of the earth itself into every product they color.
When using micas as a colorant, many have Iron Oxide as part of the ingredients.
Here are a few of our products that use this ingredient:
