Ethanolamine
A pH adjuster and alkalizing agent, common in hair dyes and some emulsions. It irritates skin and eyes, and its vapors irritate airways. Less problematic than diethanolamine, but restricted at high concentrations.
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 Ethanolamine safe during pregnancy?
Ethanolamine should be used with caution during pregnancy. Consulting a dermatologist or OB-GYN is advisable.
What skin types is Ethanolamine for?
Ethanolamine suits: normal, oily. Use with caution in: sensitive, dry.
Can Ethanolamine irritate the skin?
Ethanolamine has moderate irritation potential. Sensitive skin may show a transient reaction that usually settles with adaptation.
What is Ethanolamine and what does it do in cosmetics?
A pH adjuster and alkalizing agent, common in hair dyes and some emulsions.
What's the INCI name for Ethanolamine?
The INCI name is Ethanolamine. It may also appear as: MEA, Monoethanolamine.
See Ethanolamine 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
Other functional ingredients
Ethoxydiglycol, Ethyl Acetate, Ethyl Ferulate, Ethyl Hexanediol, Octanediol, Polysilicone-11, Steareth-21, C30-45 Alkyl Cetearyl Dimethicone Crosspolymer
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