DEA / TEA / MEA (Ethanolamines)

High Concern

Emulsifier / pH Adjuster

Also known as

diethanolaminedeatriethanolamineteamonoethanolaminemeacocamide dealauramide dealinoleamide mea

The concern

Can react with nitrites in formulations to form carcinogenic nitrosamines. EU restricts DEA in cosmetics. EWG rates DEA high concern for cancer. California Prop 65 listed. Found in shampoos, conditioners, and lotions.

Read the source: EWG / EU Commission

What to look for on labels

This ingredient may appear under any of the following names or codes on product labels:

DEA / TEA / MEA (Ethanolamines)
diethanolamine
dea
triethanolamine
tea
monoethanolamine
mea
cocamide dea
lauramide dea
linoleamide mea

Learn more

Read the full evidence directly from the authoritative source.

View source — EWG / EU Commission

Data sourced from IARC, FDA, EFSA, WHO and EWG public data. For informational purposes only. This does not constitute medical or legal advice.

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