carmine is considered safe enough for cosmetic use in the eye area. a significant proportion of the insoluble carmine pigment produced is used in the cosmetics industry for hair- and skin-care products, lipsticks, face powders, rouges, and blushes. a bright red dye and the stain carmine used in microbiology is often made from the carmine extract, too. the pharmaceutical industry uses cochineal to colour pills and ointments.