The present invention relates to novel carbazole derivatives corresponding to the formula: ##STR1## in which R.sub.1 is H, benzyl or alkyl; R.sub.2 and R.sub.3 are a carbethoxy, acetyl, nitrile, ##STR2## with R.sub.2 =R.sub.3 other than H, or R.sub.2 and R.sub.3 form the following ring systems: ##STR3## R.sub.4 is H, Cl, methoxy, nitrile or nitro; R.sub.5, R.sub.7 and R.sub.8 are H or methoxy; R.sub.6 is H or methyl; with the proviso that if R.sub.2 and R.sub.3 form the ring system (c), at least one of R.sub.1, R.sub.4, R.sub.5, R.sub.6, R.sub.7 and R.sub.8 does not denote H.The invention also relates to the use in cosmetics of these novel compounds as pigments, and in particular in cosmetic compositions intended for the treatment and/or the coloration of keratinous substances.