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LACTAMIDE MEA.

Valuable CAS 5422-34-4 / ANTISTATIC, HAIR CONDITIONING, HUMECTANT, SKIN CONDITIONING

Lactamide MEA is a multifunctional ingredient that mimics the skin's Natural Moisturization Factor (NMF), effectively drawing and retaining water in the stratum corneum for enhanced hydration. It serves as an excellent skin conditioner, contributing to a smoother skin texture and improved overall feel of cosmetic formulations.

Humectant Skin conditioning Antistatic Hair conditioning Surfactant Emulsifier Stabilizer

Science

This ingredient functions primarily as a humectant by attracting water molecules and binding them within the skin's outermost layer, the stratum corneum. Its ability to mimic the skin's Natural Moisturization Factor ensures prolonged hydration. Beyond moisturization, Lactamide MEA acts as a skin-conditioning agent, improving skin texture, and can also perform as an antistatic agent, surfactant, emulsifier, or stabilizer within a formulation.


Research

Low confidence
Effective range N/A
Optimal

N/A


Transparency

Not commonly dusted

No data available to suggest common dusting practices or thresholds for Lactamide MEA.


The Formula

Solubility
Water
Optimal pH N/A
0 7 14

Stability

Lactamide MEA is known to improve the aesthetic and tactile qualities of formulations, imparting a smooth, luxurious feel. It contributes to emulsion stability and overall product performance, demonstrating broad compatibility with a diverse range of cosmetic ingredients.

Conflicts

  • Must not be incorporated into cosmetic products where the formation of N-nitroso compounds is possible.

Safety

CIR Status
Safe with restrictions
Sensitization risk Low

The Cosmetic Ingredient Review (CIR) Expert Panel concluded that ethanolamides, including Lactamide MEA, are safe when formulations are non-irritating and do not lead to the formation of N-nitroso compounds. While no specific maximum use concentration for Lactamide MEA was established, related ethanolamides have limits (e.g., 7.5% for Acetamide MEA in leave-on products to limit free ethanolamine release). The SCCS has not evaluated Lactamide MEA, and its FDA status for cosmetic use remains unknown.


Your Skin

Yes Normal
Yes Dry
Yes Oily
Yes Sensitive
Irritancy Low
Comedogenicity Unknown

Our Assessment

Valuable

Lactamide MEA is a valuable humectant and skin conditioner, widely compatible across skin types and formulations, provided it is incorporated in non-irritating concentrations and avoids N-nitroso compound formation.


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