Diethanolamine (DEA)
What is Diethanolamine (DEA)?
Diethanolamine (DEA) is a synthetic organic compound used primarily as a pH adjuster, emulsifier, and surfactant in skincare and cosmetic formulations, often derived from reacting ethylene oxide with ammonia. It functions by neutralizing fatty acids to form soaps and stabilizing emulsions, but is frequently found in products like shampoos, body washes, and moisturizers. Due to safety concerns, its use has been restricted or banned in many regions.
Roles in Formulation
This ingredient serves the following purposes in cosmetic formulations:
Foam booster
Enhances foam volume and creaminess and can stabilize lather, improving sensory feel and perceived cleansing in shampoos and wash-off products.
Emulsifying agent
Enables stable mixing of oil and water phases by forming an interfacial film, helping create lotions, creams, and cleansers with consistent texture.
Viscosity controlling agent
Adjusts thickness to the desired level for stability and usability, improving dispensing, suspension, and texture across many formulation types.
Surfactant
Lowers surface tension to enable cleansing, emulsifying, and foaming; central to shampoos, body washes, and many emulsions and micellar systems.
Foaming
Generates foam during use to help distribute the product and lift soils; typically delivered by surfactants that create stable bubbles under agitation.
PH adjuster
Raises or lowers pH to the target range, supporting ingredient performance, preservative efficacy, stability, and user comfort.