Red 22 Good Colouring Agent/Pigment No known benefits Red 22 at a glance Used to add color to makeup, skin care, and food products Also known as D&C Red No. 22 Ruled safe as used in its current applications Red 22 description Red 22 is a type of synthetic pigment used to add colour to cosmetics and food products. The United States Food and Drug Administration regards it as safe in its current usage. It’s also known as D&C Red No. 22, with the “D&C” designation meaning it’s approved for use in drugs and cosmetics.