What is Cocamide DEA (Cocamide Diethanolamine)?

Cocamide DEA (Cocamide Diethanolamine) is a non-ionic surfactant derived from coconut oil and diethanolamine (DEA). It is a viscous, amber-colored liquid or waxy solid that acts as a foam booster, thickening agent, and emulsifier in a wide range of personal care, household, and industrial cleaning products.

Thanks to its amphiphilic nature, Cocamide DEA enhances foam stability, improves viscosity, and helps blend oil- and water-based ingredients. It is especially valued in shampoos, body washes, liquid soaps, and detergents for its smooth, creamy lather and cleansing efficiency.

While effective and widely used, Cocamide DEA has faced scrutiny due to concerns about potential nitrosamine formation when mixed with certain preservatives or under improper storage.

USES AND APPLICATIONS

INDUSTRIES

Cocamide DEA is widely used in:

• Personal care products (shampoos, conditioners, face washes, shaving creams)

• Household cleaners (dishwashing liquids, surface cleaners)

• Industrial cleaners (degreasers, car wash soaps)

• Cosmetic formulations (as a thickener and emulsifier)

• Textile auxiliaries (wetting and dispersing agent)

KEY ADVANTAGES

• Enhances foam and lather quality

• Acts as a viscosity builder and emulsifier

• Derived from natural coconut oil

• Compatible with a wide range of surfactants and ingredients