Red 40 Lake Bon Agent colorant/Pigment No known benefits Red 40 Lake at a glance Pigment used to add colour to makeup, food products, and skin care Ruled safe in its current use Also known as FD&C Red No. 40 or FD&C Red No. 40 Aluminum Lake Red 40 Lake description Red 40 lake is a synthetic pigment used to add colour to makeup, as well as skin care and food products. The term lake refers to the process of transforming a pigment from a solid to a solution, usually using a metallic salt. This makes it insoluble in water. The United States Food and Drug Administration has ruled Red 40 lake safe in its current use. It is also known as FD&C Red No. 40 or FD&C Red No. 40 aluminum lake.