Iron oxides are chemical compounds composed of iron and oxygen. Iron oxides have been one of the most commonly used coloring agents for cosmetics for a long time. Manufacturing iron oxides as a coloring agent for cosmetics began around 1900. (source: http://www.chemistryquestion.com/English/Questions/ChemistryInDailyLife/16c_iron_oxides_cosmetics.html)
At present, iron oxides are the most commonly used pigment for coloring cosmetics such as foundation and eye shadow. Iron oxides have various colors which are classified into three major color groups: the yellow iron oxide (yellow), colcothar (red), black iron oxide (black). Various skin colors are produced by mixing these three groups of iron dioxide in different ratios. (source: http://www.chemistryquestion.com/English/Questions/ChemistryInDailyLife/16c_iron_oxides_cosmetics.html)
Go to Iron Oxides (score: 1 - low hazard) in Environmental Working Group’s Skin Deep Cosmetic Safety Database for details on potential health concerns associated with this ingredient.
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