What is D&C Red #6?
D&C Red #6 (INCI name: CI 15850) is a cosmetic colorant. An insoluble azo pigment widely used in lipsticks for its staying power. Rated 1 on the Fulton-derived table — one of the safer reds for acne-prone skin.
You may see it on labels as D&C Red 6, D&C Red #6, D C Red 6, Ci 15850, so it can hide under more than one name in an ingredient list.
Where D&C Red #6 shows up
You'll most often find D&C Red #6 in 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 #6 bad for acne-prone skin?
Because it barely registers on the comedogenic scale, D&C Red #6 is generally a safe pick for breakout-prone skin and is often recommended as a gentler alternative to heavier ingredients.