Nonionic surfactant and foam thickener made from coconut fatty acids and monoethanolamine. Improves texture and foam density in shampoos and body washes.
Topical application
CWeak evidence. In vitro data, open-label studies, or expert consensus.
Functional co-surfactant, safe in rinse-off products. Rare cases of contact allergy reported. Nitrosamine risk is controlled by raw-material purity.
Cocamide MEA is a non-ionic surfactant and foam thickener, the product of coconut-oil fatty acids (mostly lauric) reacting with monoethanolamine (MEA). Used as an auxiliary in cleansing products. Where applied. Shampoos, shower gels, facial washes, liquid soap. Concentration 0.5-5%. Role – improve foam density and stability, raise formula viscosity. Works alongside main anionic surfactants (SLS, SLES, cocamidopropyl betaine). In Spain – in mass shampoos Nivea, Pantene, Pert Plus, Babaria. Evidence base. Functional ingredient. No direct clinical efficacy. Role – improve organoleptics and texture. Safety. CIR confirmed safety at <10%. SCCS imposed no restrictions. Allergic reactions are rare. Above 10% skin irritation is possible. DEA and nitrosamine controversy. Cocamide MEA may contain diethanolamine (DEA) and nitrosamine impurities from manufacturing – potential carcinogens. EU REACH since 2018 limits DEA content to <0.5% in cosmetic ingredients. In quality pharmacy cosmetics the risk is minimal. Pregnancy and lactation – safe. Acceptable at any stage. Brief contact, minimal absorption. Suitable for. Universal as an auxiliary surfactant in rinse-off products. Atopics and eczema patients – choose "sulfate- and cocamide-free" formulas (e.g. La Roche-Posay Lipikar Syndet, Bioderma Atoderm Crème Lavante).
Irritation potential
LowAllergen risk
ModeratePregnancy
SafeSuitable for
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Cocamide MEA is considered safe during pregnancy at typical cosmetic concentrations. Systemic absorption through the skin is minimal.
Cocamide MEA suits: normal, oily, combination. Use with caution in: sensitive.
Nonionic surfactant and foam thickener made from coconut fatty acids and monoethanolamine.
The INCI name is Cocamide MEA. It may also appear as: Cocamide Monoethanolamide, Кокамид МЕА.
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Use with caution