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Moumoujus

DEA-C12-13 ALKYL SULFATE.

Avoid CAS 243133-68-8 / CLEANSING, SURFACTANT - CLEANSING

DEA-C12-13 Alkyl Sulfate is an anionic surfactant primarily utilized for its cleansing, foaming, and emulsifying properties, enabling the effective removal of oil and dirt. Despite its functional benefits, this ingredient carries significant safety concerns regarding the potential for carcinogenic nitrosamine formation.

Summary

cleansing emulsifying surfactant

Science

Mechanism of Action

As an anionic surfactant, DEA-C12-13 Alkyl Sulfate operates by reducing the surface tension of a liquid. This action allows water to blend more effectively with oil and dirt, facilitating their removal through rinsing. Furthermore, it contributes to foam generation and stabilizes the mixture of otherwise immiscible liquids, such as oil and water.

Research

Clinical Evidence

Low confidence
Effective range N/A
Optimal

N/A

Transparency

Dusting Analysis

Not commonly dusted

The Formula

Formulation

Solubility
Water
Optimal pH 7 – 9
0 7 14

Stability

This ingredient exhibits stability in alkaline, weak acid, and hard water environments. However, it is unstable in strong acids and should be protected from high temperatures. A critical stability concern is the substantial risk of carcinogenic nitrosamine formation when DEA-containing ingredients are formulated with nitrosating agents.

Conflicts

  • Nitrosating agents (e.g., nitrites)
  • Strong acids
  • Strong alkalis
  • High temperatures

Safety

Safety Profile

CIR Status
Safe with restrictions
Sensitization risk Moderate

The U.S. Cosmetic Ingredient Review (CIR) Expert Panel considers DEA acceptable for use in cosmetics under the restriction that it is not combined with nitrosating agents, which can generate carcinogenic nitrosamines. The CIR also recommended a maximum of 0.64% free DEA. In contrast, the European Union has prohibited DEA in cosmetic products due to concerns over carcinogenic nitrosamine formation, with the SCCS recommending a maximum nitrosamine content of 50 µg/kg in finished cosmetic products and advising against its use with nitrosating systems. California's Proposition 65 lists DEA as a cancer-causing agent, mandating a warning label for products containing it. The FDA permits DEA in specific food packaging applications but for cosmetics, it does not prohibit DEA, instead advising consumers to review labels and emphasizing manufacturer responsibility for product safety. Risks of nitrosamine formation can be exacerbated by improper pH levels and cross-contamination during production.

Your Skin

Skin Compatibility

Yes Normal
No Dry
Yes Oily
No Sensitive
Irritancy Moderate
Comedogenicity Unknown

Our Assessment

Verdict

Avoid

While effective as a cleansing and emulsifying surfactant, the significant risk of carcinogenic nitrosamine formation and widespread regulatory restrictions in key markets render DEA-C12-13 Alkyl Sulfate unsuitable for precision skincare formulations at Moumoujus.

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