Diethanolamine
A pH adjuster and base for foaming surfactants in older formulas. It is a moderate irritant on its own, but the real concern is different: combined with nitrosating agents it can form nitrosamines, which are carcinogens. The EU therefore bans DEA in cosmetics.
Supporting ingredient
It gives a product its texture, stability or shelf life. It has no claimed effect on the skin, so an efficacy tier does not apply. What is known about its safety is below
Tolerability and safety
- Irritation potential
- Medium
- Allergen risk
- Low
- Pregnancy
- Caution
- Suitable for
- Normal, Oily
- Use with caution
- Sensitive, Dry
Frequently asked questions
Is Diethanolamine safe during pregnancy?
Diethanolamine should be used with caution during pregnancy. Consulting a dermatologist or OB-GYN is advisable.
What skin types is Diethanolamine for?
Diethanolamine suits: normal, oily. Use with caution in: sensitive, dry.
Can Diethanolamine irritate the skin?
Diethanolamine has moderate irritation potential. Sensitive skin may show a transient reaction that usually settles with adaptation.
What is Diethanolamine and what does it do in cosmetics?
A pH adjuster and base for foaming surfactants in older formulas.
What's the INCI name for Diethanolamine?
The INCI name is Diethanolamine. It may also appear as: DEA.
See Diethanolamine in a product composition right on the store page
The Evigrade extension adds an evidence panel to iHerb, Sephora, Druni and 12 more stores. This ingredient and every other one in the product show evidence-tier, allergen risk and pregnancy/lactation flags at a glance.
Similar role in the formula
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