DIETHANOLAMINE
Commonly Found In
Overview
Diethanolamine (DEA) is banned in EU cosmetics since 2013 (SCCS/1500/12) due to concerns about nitrosamine formation and liver tumors observed in animal studies. The US FDA issued a safety advisory, and it is listed on California's Proposition 65. Japan restricts its use. Many DEA-derivative compounds (e.g., cocamide DEA) are regulated separately.
Also known as: DEA, 2,2'-iminobisethanol, bis(2-hydroxyethyl)amine, diolamine
Key Benefits
No skin benefit. DEA is banned in EU cosmetics due to concerns about nitrosamine formation and animal carcinogenicity data. The EU ban applies to DEA itself; DEA-derived compounds are regulated separately.
Supporting Research
- β’ SCCS/1500/12 (2012): SCCS opinion that led to EU ban of DEA in cosmetics
- β’ NTP Carcinogenesis Studies of Diethanolamine (1999): Hepatocellular carcinomas in mice following dermal exposure; basis for Prop 65 listing
Skin Compatibility Ratings
Comedogenic Rating
Non-comedogenic; surfactant/emulsifier agent now restricted in EU cosmetics.
Source: EU Regulation 2013/674/EU; CIR Expert Panel
Irritancy Rating
Moderate irritancy and sensitization concerns; DEA can react with nitrosating impurities to form N-nitrosodiethanolamine (NDELA), a potential carcinogen. The EU restricted DEA use in cosmetics (Regulation 2013/674/EU) due to this concern. At typical formulated concentrations, skin irritation is mild.
Source: EU Regulation 2013/674/EU; SCCS/1463/12; CIR Expert Panel re-evaluation
Typical Use Concentration
Range
Not applicable (banned in EU/UK)
Optimal
Not applicable
EU Annex II/411: banned in cosmetics. US FDA advisory issued but not banned. Japan restricts use.
Works Well With / Avoid
Avoid Combining
Banned in EU/UK. Note: DEA compounds (cocamide DEA, lauramide DEA, etc.) are regulated separately and may still be permitted in EU under purity requirements. DEA itself is the prohibited substance.
Commonly Found In
Global Regulation Summary
Overview of current status across major international markets.
Detailed Regional Status
| Region | Status | Max Conc. | Conditions | Source |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| πͺπΊ EU | Banned | - | - | Official β |
| πΊπΈ USA | Allowed | - | - | Official β |
| π―π΅ Japan | Allowed | - | - | Official β |
| π°π· Korea | Unknown | - | - | Official β |
| π¬π§ UK | Banned | - | Follows EU regulations (II/411) | Official β |
π Why Regulations Differ
EU banned DEA in cosmetics in 2013 (Commission Decision 2013/674/EU, SCCS/1500/12) due to nitrosamine formation risk and NTP carcinogenicity data. US FDA issued a 1996 advisory recommending reformulation but did not ban it. Japan restricts DEA. DEA derivatives (cocamide DEA, etc.) are treated separately under EU regulations with purity requirements.
Recent Regulatory Changes
- β’ EU Commission Decision 2013/674/EU: DEA banned in cosmetics effective December 2013
Regulation Analysis
Regional Agreement
Banned in EU, UK but allowed in USA, Japan.
Category Comparison
There are 41 ingredients in the BUFFERING category. 100% are banned in at least one major market.
Strictness Ranking
πΏ Natural Sources
Synthetic compound. Does not occur naturally.
π How It's Made
Produced by reacting ethylene oxide with ammonia, yielding mixture of ethanolamines separated by distillation.
π Uses in Cosmetics
Historically used in shampoos as a foaming agent. Now banned for direct use in EU cosmetics. Listed as a potential cancer risk in California.
π¬ Other Applications
Chemical intermediate for detergents, herbicides, and gas treatment. Also used in metalworking fluids.
π‘ Fun Facts
- β’ The 1998 National Toxicology Program study found liver tumors in mice exposed to DEA, leading to California Prop 65 listing
- β’ EU banned DEA in cosmetics but allows its derivatives (e.g., cocamide DEA) with purity requirements
- β’ DEA can react with nitrites to form carcinogenic nitrosamines, similar to TEA
Data Sources
- β’ EU Cosmetics Regulation 1223/2009 Annex II entry 411
- β’ SCCS/1500/12 (2012) β SCCS opinion on DEA
- β’ NTP Carcinogenesis Studies of Diethanolamine (1999)
- β’ EU Commission Decision 2013/674/EU
Last data verification: 2026-04-16
Related Ingredients
AMMONIA
AMMONIUM HYDROXIDE
CALCIUM CARBONATE
CITRIC ACID
POTASSIUM HYDROXIDE
SODIUM HYDROXIDE
Learn More
Frequently Asked Questions
Why is DIETHANOLAMINE banned in the EU but allowed in the US?
The EU follows a precautionary principle, banning DIETHANOLAMINE under II/411 due to potential safety concerns. The US FDA has not found sufficient evidence to prohibit its use, allowing it under different safety assessment standards. This reflects differing regulatory philosophies between the two regions.
Why is DIETHANOLAMINE banned in the EU but allowed in Japan?
The EU prohibits DIETHANOLAMINE (II/411) based on their strict safety criteria. Japan's Ministry of Health, Labour and Welfare (MHLW) has evaluated the ingredient and permits its use, potentially with different safety data or usage conditions.
What is DIETHANOLAMINE used for in cosmetics?
DIETHANOLAMINE is primarily used for buffering in cosmetic products. The ingredient is commonly found in various cosmetic and personal care products.
Which countries regulate DIETHANOLAMINE?
DIETHANOLAMINE is banned in EU, UK. The ingredient is freely allowed in JP, US.
Are there alternatives to DIETHANOLAMINE?
Due to regulatory restrictions on DIETHANOLAMINE, cosmetic manufacturers often use alternative ingredients with similar functions. For buffering, alternatives may include other approved ingredients in the same category. Consult product labels for specific formulations, and look for products compliant with your region's regulations.
Disclaimer
The information on this website is for educational and informational purposes only and is not intended as medical advice. While we strive for accuracy based on official government databases, cosmetic regulations change frequently. Always consult with a qualified professional or refer to the latest official regulatory documents for compliance. We are not responsible for any actions taken based on the information provided here.