LANOLINAMIDE DEA
Commonly Found In
Overview
Lanolinamide DEA is a lanolin-derived diethanolamide used as an emulsifier and emulsion stabilizer in moisturizers and creams. It combines the skin-conditioning properties of lanolin with DEA surfactant functionality. The EU bans it due to the DEA component's potential to form nitrosamines. Japan and the US permit its use.
Also known as: lanolin acid diethanolamide, lanolin fatty acid diethanolamide
Key Benefits
May help moisturize and condition skin due to the lanolin fatty acid component, which studies suggest has good skin compatibility and emolliency. The DEA component provides emulsification. EU/UK restrictions are due to DEA's nitrosamine formation potential, not lanolin safety.
Supporting Research
- β’ EU Annex III/60: Restricts lanolinamide DEA due to DEA component's nitrosamine formation potential
- β’ Lanolin literature: Lanolin fatty acids are well-established skin conditioners with similarity to human sebum
Skin Compatibility Ratings
Comedogenic Rating
Moderate comedogenic potential from lanolin component; score 2 on 0-5 scale. Individual sensitivity varies.
Source: Published comedogenicity literature (lanolin derivatives)
Irritancy Rating
Low irritancy at typical use concentrations; lanolin component may cause sensitization in lanolin-allergic individuals
Source: Published literature
Typical Use Concentration
Range
1β5%
Optimal
2β3%
EU Annex III/60 restriction applies. Use permitted in Japan and US at typical emulsifier concentrations.
Works Well With / Avoid
Works Well With
Avoid Combining
Use With Caution
EU banned due to DEA component. Not for use with nitrosating agents. Lanolin-allergic individuals may react. EU/UK restricted (Annex III/60).
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 | Restricted | - | Follows EU regulations (III/60) | Official β |
π Why Regulations Differ
EU/UK restrict lanolinamide DEA (Annex III/60) due to DEA component's potential to form carcinogenic nitrosamines. Japan and US permit it. The restriction mirrors the broader DEA-compound framework in EU cosmetics. Lanolin itself is not the concern.
Regulation Analysis
Regional Agreement
Banned in EU but allowed in USA, Japan.
Category Comparison
There are 35 ingredients in the EMULSION STABILISING category. 91% are banned in at least one major market.
Strictness Ranking
πΏ Natural Sources
Derived from lanolin (wool grease from sheep) combined with diethanolamine. Lanolin is a natural wax secreted by the sebaceous glands of sheep to protect their wool from weather.
π How It's Made
Produced by reacting lanolin fatty acids with diethanolamine (DEA). Lanolin is first obtained by scouring raw sheep's wool, then the fatty acids are reacted with DEA.
π Uses in Cosmetics
Used as an emulsifier and emulsion stabilizer in moisturizing creams and lotions. The lanolin fatty acid component may contribute mild skin-conditioning properties. EU ban due to DEA component's nitrosamine formation potential.
π¬ Other Applications
Lanolin itself is used in leather conditioning, rust prevention, shoe polish, and as a lubricant for various mechanical applications.
π‘ Fun Facts
- β’ Lanolin is so similar to human sebum that it can penetrate skin more easily than most other natural waxes
- β’ A single sheep produces about 250-300 grams of lanolin per year during wool shearing
- β’ The EU banned this ingredient due to the DEA component, not the lanolin β DEA can react with other ingredients to form potentially harmful nitrosamines
Related Skin Concerns
Data Sources
- β’ EU Cosmetics Regulation 1223/2009 Annex III entry 60
- β’ NTP DEA studies (1999) β basis for DEA compound restrictions
- β’ Lanolin skin compatibility literature
Last data verification: 2026-04-12
Related Ingredients
COCAMIDE DEA
Cetostearyl Alcohol
CETEARYL ALCOHOL
1-Hexadecanol
CETYL ALCOHOL
1-Octadecanol
STEARYL ALCOHOL
TRIETHANOLAMINE
ALUMINUM STEARATE
Learn More
Frequently Asked Questions
Why is LANOLINAMIDE DEA banned in the EU but allowed in the US?
The EU follows a precautionary principle, banning LANOLINAMIDE DEA under III/60 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 LANOLINAMIDE DEA banned in the EU but allowed in Japan?
The EU prohibits LANOLINAMIDE DEA (III/60) 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 LANOLINAMIDE DEA used for in cosmetics?
LANOLINAMIDE DEA is primarily used for emulsion stabilising in cosmetic products. It also serves as surfactant - cleansing, surfactant - emulsifying. The ingredient is commonly found in various cosmetic and personal care products.
Which countries regulate LANOLINAMIDE DEA?
LANOLINAMIDE DEA is banned in EU. It has concentration limits or usage restrictions in UK. The ingredient is freely allowed in JP, US.
Are there alternatives to LANOLINAMIDE DEA?
Due to regulatory restrictions on LANOLINAMIDE DEA, cosmetic manufacturers often use alternative ingredients with similar functions. For emulsion stabilising, 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.