(Non-ionic)

PURPOSE:

Cocamide Diethanolamine (DEA) is used as a foam booster and it's fatty acids allow it to stabilize interactions between water and oils, making it a good emulsifier

IMPLICATIONS:

Shown to be a high irritant and a possible cancerous ingredient (based on animal studies) if combined with certain other chemicals. However, it has been approved as safe for use up to 10% in leave-on products.