What it is
A fatty acid amide of DEA synthesised from coconut fatty acids, clear viscous liquid.
What it does
Foam booster and viscosity modifier in shampoos and body washes.
Why it’s a concern
Listed on California Proposition 65 as a chemical known to cause cancer since 2012, based on NTP rodent studies. Can contain residual DEA and can form NDELA in finished products. Major brands have reformulated to remove it; smaller brands continue to include it.
Also known as
coconut diethanolamide
CAS numbers
68603-42-9
Commonly found in
shampoobody washbubble bath
Safer alternatives
- cocamidopropyl betaine (preferably DEA-free)
- cocamide MIPA
Sources
- California Prop 65
- NTP TR-479