What is D&C Red #4?
Chemically, D&C Red #4 (INCI name: CI 14700) is a cosmetic colorant. A monoazo dye used mainly in lip and cheek products. Rated 1, which places it among the lower-risk members of the D&C red family.
You may see it on labels as D&C Red 4, D&C Red #4, D C Red 4, Ci 14700, so it can hide under more than one name in an ingredient list.
Where D&C Red #4 shows up
D&C Red #4 is commonly formulated into lipsticks, blushes, and other colour cosmetics. Separately from clogging, its irritancy is rated 0/5 — low, so it's unlikely to sting or sensitise on its own.
Is D&C Red #4 bad for acne-prone skin?
Because it barely registers on the comedogenic scale, D&C Red #4 is generally a safe pick for breakout-prone skin and is often recommended as a gentler alternative to heavier ingredients.