Copper powder

Copper powder suppliers and sourcing guide

Copper powder as a color additive is a very fine, free-flowing metallic powder made from virgin electrolytic copper, with small amounts of stearic or oleic acid as lubricants. It is usually produced by atomizing and milling into flakes. It gives a reddish metallic effect. Cosmetic makers buy it for eye shadow, lipstick, nail polish and other color cosmetics; it is also permitted in externally applied drugs.

See suppliers What to ask for on the COA

Category: Colors
Also known as: CI 77400 · Copper flake
Facts checked: November 2026

Forms and grades of copper powder

Suppliers sell different products under the same name. Specify the one you need.

Powder
Fine copper flake meeting the particle size limit in 21 CFR 73.1647.
Paste or dispersion
Copper flake in oil or solvent for nail polish and liquid products.
Stabilized grades
Flake coated to slow tarnishing and darkening in finished products.

What to check on the COA

Compare each result with your own specification when the lot arrives.

Copper assay: Copper (as Cu), required to be not less than 95 percent.
Lubricant content: Stearic or oleic acid, limited to 5 percent.
Heavy metals: Cadmium, lead, arsenic and mercury by ICP-MS against the limits in 21 CFR 73.1647.
Particle size: Maximum particle size of 45 microns for at least 95 percent, by sieve or laser diffraction.
Appearance: Color and luster against a retained standard, to catch tarnish.

Storage, lots and expiry

Storage and shelf life

Store sealed and dry, away from acids, moisture and sulfur compounds, which tarnish copper; keep away from ignition sources because fine metal powder is combustible. Shelf life or retest interval is set by the supplier specification.

Lots and expiry dates

Particle size and color vary between lots, and copper darkens as it oxidizes, so check each lot against a retained standard and record receipt date. Rotate stock first-in, first-out.

Regulatory status

Facts from regulators and standards bodies, each linked to its source.

21 CFR 73.1647 describes copper powder as a very fine free-flowing metallic powder made from virgin electrolytic copper.
Source: ecfr.gov (opens in a new tab)
21 CFR 73.2647 permits copper powder for coloring cosmetics generally, including eye-area cosmetics, exempt from certification.
Source: ecfr.gov (opens in a new tab)
21 CFR 73.1647 requires not less than 95 percent copper and limits cadmium to 15 ppm.
Source: ecfr.gov (opens in a new tab)

This is general information, not regulatory advice. Status differs by country and by how the ingredient is used, so check the rules for your product and market.

Copper powder suppliers

Manufacturers and distributors whose own websites say they sell it.

We are checking copper powder suppliers now

Every listing is checked against the supplier’s own website before it goes live, so this list fills in over the coming weeks. The specs and COA checklist above are ready today.

Sell copper powder? Request a listing

Frequently asked questions

What forms of copper powder can brands buy?

Common forms include powder, paste or dispersion and stabilized grades. Ask each supplier for the specification sheet of the exact grade they quote.

What should the COA for copper powder include?

Expect copper assay, lubricant content, heavy metals, particle size and appearance, each with its method, specification and result for that lot.

How should copper powder be stored?

What is the regulatory status of copper powder?

21 CFR 73.1647 describes copper powder as a very fine free-flowing metallic powder made from virgin electrolytic copper. 21 CFR 73.2647 permits copper powder for coloring cosmetics generally, including eye-area cosmetics, exempt from certification. 21 CFR 73.1647 requires not less than 95 percent copper and limits cadmium to 15 ppm.

More colors

All 48 colors

Sell ingredients to brands?

Request a free listing for the ingredients you make or distribute. No paid placement.

Request a listing