Red 40 Bon Agent colorant/Pigment No known benefits Red 40 at a glance Pigment used to add colour to makeup and skin care Ruled safe in its current use Also known as FD&C Red 40 Red 40 description Red 40 is a synthetic pigment used to add colour to makeup, as well as skin care. It is soluble in water. The United States Food and Drug Administration has ruled Red 40 safe in its current use. Its alternate name is FD&C Red 40, indicating its approval for use in food, drugs, and cosmetics.