Cocamide DEA
Coconut oil fatty acid diethanolamine condensate
EU restricts to 10% in rinse-off; potential N-nitrosamine formation with secondary amines, manufacturer must control nitrosamine level; CIR concluded safe at ≤2% rinse-off; IARC linked DEA to tumours in animal studies (relevance disputed at cosmetic exposures); avoid in leave-on products
Function & Common Use
Surfactant (foam booster) / Viscosity agent
Surfactant
Shampoos shower gels foam boosters
Semi-synthetic (coconut oil + DEA)
Concentration Limits
No formal limit
EU Annex V, max 10% in rinse-off products; ban under some conditions if combined with nitrosamines
Format restriction: Rinse-off
Baby restriction: Avoid in nitrosamine-forming systems
Frequently Asked Questions
Is Cocamide DEA safe to use in skincare?
Cocamide DEA has a Medium concern rating. EU restricts to 10% in rinse-off; potential N-nitrosamine formation with secondary amines, manufacturer must control nitrosamine level; CIR concluded safe at ≤2% rinse-off; IARC linked DEA to tumours in animal studies (relevance disputed at cosmetic exposures); avoid in leave-on products
Is Cocamide DEA allowed in India?
Cocamide DEA is currently classified as "Permitted" under Indian cosmetics regulations. The maximum permitted concentration is No formal limit.
What is Cocamide DEA used for in cosmetics?
Cocamide DEA functions as: Surfactant (foam booster) / Viscosity agent. It is commonly found in: Shampoos shower gels foam boosters.
Is Cocamide DEA safe for babies?
Cocamide DEA has baby/child restrictions: Avoid in nitrosamine-forming systems. Avoid using products containing this ingredient on infants unless specifically formulated and labelled for baby use.
Regulatory Status
Identifiers
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