A synthetic sulfonephthalein dye, known as a pH indicator, regulated in Annex IV for rinse-off products.
What it is
Bromocresol green is a synthetic brominated sulfonephthalein dye best known as a pH indicator that changes from yellow to blue as acidity decreases. CosIng lists it as a colorant. In the EU it is listed in Annex IV (colorants), with an entry that restricts it to rinse-off products.
Where it is used
Found in a small number of products.
Limits of interpretation
The INCI list shows which ingredients are present, not how much of each. Above 1%, ingredients are listed in descending order of weight; below 1% the order is free.
See the EU regulation section for the applicable conditions. The colour seen in the product can depend on its pH.
Functions
- Colorant
- Exclusively or mainly intended to colour the cosmetic product, the body as a whole or certain parts thereof, by absorption or reflection of visible light; (precursors of oxidative hair colorants shall be deemed colorants). All authorised colorants are substances in the positive list of Annex IV to the Cosmetics Regulation 1223/2009.
EU regulation
EU · Annex IV, entry 152Phenol, 4,4'-(3H-2,1-benzoxathiol-3-ylidene)bis[2,6-dibromo-3-methyl-,S,S-dioxide
- Maximum concentration
- Rinse-off products
- As of
- 3 November 2026 · (EC) 2009/1223