🎯 At a Glance
🔬 How It Actually Works
Used as a wetting agent and to adjust pH. The danger of DEA is that it can react with other ingredients in the formula (like nitrites) to form nitrosamines, which are highly potent, known carcinogens that readily absorb into the skin.
💖 Why your skin loves it
Creates rich foam in cheap cleansers.
💡 Pro Tip
Look out for related compounds like Cocamide DEA or Lauramide DEA and avoid them.
⚖️ Myth vs. Fact
The Myth
It is totally safe in wash-off products.
The Science
The European Union has heavily restricted DEA due to the massive carcinogenic risk of nitrosamine formation.