Cocamide DEA
Notable concerns
INCI · Cocamide DEACAS 68603-42-9
Also known as: Cocamide Diethanolamine · Coconut Oil Diethanolamine
SurfactantFoamingThickener
In plain language
A chemically modified coconut oil derivative historically used to boost foam and thicken shampoos.
Classified as a possible human carcinogen by the IARC due to the potential formation of carcinogenic nitrosamines.
Concerns & harms
Harm
Possible Carcinogen
In 2012, the IARC classified Cocamide DEA as a Group 2B possible human carcinogen, prompting many brands to phase it out.
Strong evidence
Where it can be sold
Simplified regulatory status by market — for guidance, not compliance advice.
European UnionRestricted
Max 0.5% secondary amines in final product to prevent nitrosamine formation. Banned in cosmetics in certain US states (California).
01
IARC Monographs: Coconut oil diethanolamine condensate ↗
International Agency for Research on Cancer · 2012
Regulatory