Cocomide Dea

No one wants to use a product which is thin and gooey, running all over the place. This chemical makes sure that you get the desired blob you want when you use your face wash or shampoo. It makes it easier to handle and use. There has been no real health or skin benefits attached to this chemical; its basic function is presentation. Making the product look good so that it sells good.

However scientists have come to the conclusion that there is nothing natural about this chemical even though its genesis stems from coconut extraction. This chemical is a result of collusion between coconut oil and diethanolamine. This makes it usable as an emulsifier and surfactant.

Many big companies claim that this surfactant has been used successfully over the past 50 years with no adverse reactions or side effects. This is true especially of skin care companies. However, the increase in allergies and skin cancer as a result of cosmetic use has roused some concern. It is thought to mix with amines occurring in the cream to form highly carcinogenic nitrosamines which lead to skin cancer. Other studies conducted also show that DEAs in general slow down or limit foetal brain development.

Although it is not wise to jump to harsh conclusions, health experts do advise limited exposure to cosmetic creams in general. The chemicals used in this can have various reactions according to the skin type of the individual in question. There have been no such obvious cases of cocomide dea affecting foetal development but it has been raised as a concern. People tend to go for organic products, but organic products also use this surfactant in doses to increase thickness. The lethalness or lack of this chemical has not been clinically proven. On its own it’s pretty harmless unless you use it in unhealthy amounts with other alkaline chemicals or bases.

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