Science
Mechanism of Action
Utilizing its basic properties, ethanolamine serves as a pH adjuster, effectively raising the alkalinity of cosmetic formulations. Furthermore, it acts as an emulsifier and surfactant by lowering the surface tension between disparate substances, thus promoting the uniform blending of oil and water-based components.
Research
Clinical Evidence
Medium confidenceN/A
Key findings
- 01 Evidence suggests ethanolamine can induce skin irritation at concentrations as low as 1%.
- 02 Reported maximum use concentrations for ethanolamine in rinse-off cosmetic formulations, notably hair coloring products, range from 0.0002% to 18%.
- 03 Under European Union regulations, a maximum concentration of ≤0.5% is permitted in finished cosmetic products, specifically addressing its secondary amine content.
Transparency
Dusting Analysis
Ethanolamine is primarily a functional ingredient used for pH adjustment, emulsification, and surfactant properties, rather than a 'skin-benefitting' active that would be subjected to dusting.
The Formula
Formulation
Stability
As a basic compound with a pKa of 9.50, ethanolamine is intentionally incorporated into products to achieve higher, more alkaline pH levels for specific formulation requirements and stability.
Conflicts
- N-nitrosating agents (e.g., certain preservatives like 2-Bromo-2-Nitropropane-1,3-Diol, 5-Bromo-5-Nitro-1,3-Dioxane, or sodium nitrate) to prevent the formation of carcinogenic nitrosamines.
Safety
Safety Profile
The Cosmetic Ingredient Review (CIR) Expert Panel deems ethanolamine safe for use in cosmetics and personal care products under specific conditions: it must be used in rinse-off products designed for brief, discontinuous contact, followed by thorough rinsing. It is not recommended for products intended for prolonged skin contact. Crucially, it must never be formulated with N-nitrosating agents to prevent the generation of potentially carcinogenic nitrosamines. Despite the 18% reported maximum for rinse-off, EU regulations restrict its content to ≤0.5% in finished products when considering secondary amine levels, and irritation has been noted at concentrations as low as 1%.
Your Skin
Skin Compatibility
Our Assessment
Verdict
Considering its propensity for high skin irritation even at low concentrations and complex safety requirements, ethanolamine is generally not suitable for precision skincare formulations, especially in leave-on products.
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