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Moumoujus

MEA-BORATE.

Avoid CAS 10377-81-8; 26038-87-9; 68130-12-1 / BUFFERING

MEA-BORATE, or monoethanolamine borate, primarily functions as a pH buffering agent in cosmetic formulations, historically also exhibiting antimicrobial and antifungal properties. Its main role is to stabilize product pH, which can be crucial for the efficacy of other ingredients and overall product stability. However, its use is heavily restricted and prohibited in many regions due to significant safety concerns.

Summary

Buffering pH Adjuster Antimicrobial Antifungal

Science

Mechanism of Action

This compound primarily stabilizes the pH of cosmetic formulations by acting as a buffering agent, helping to maintain a consistent pH range. Additionally, MEA-BORATE has demonstrated antimicrobial and antifungal activities by inhibiting leucyl-tRNA synthetase (LeuRS), an essential enzyme required for protein synthesis in various microorganisms.

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 8 – 9.5
0 7 14

Stability

A 1% solution of monoethanolamine borate typically maintains a pH between 8.0 and 9.5. Within the pH range of approximately 7 to 10, polyborate anions are readily formed, contributing to its buffering capacity. Notably, free boric acid (H3BO3(aq)) is not present at pH 10 but is clearly detectable at pH 5.9, indicating its form is highly dependent on the surrounding pH.

Conflicts

  • Prohibited in cosmetics by EU Cosmetics Regulation due to safety concerns related to boron compounds.

Safety

Safety Profile

CIR Status
Safe with restrictions
Max tested
5%
Sensitization risk High

The Cosmetic Ingredient Review (CIR) Expert Panel concluded that Sodium Borate and Boric Acid are safe as cosmetic ingredients when used at concentrations less than or equal to 5%, with a critical restriction against use on infant or injured skin. However, the CIR Panel has re-opened this safety assessment (June 2024) to evaluate new data, specifically addressing why these ingredients are banned by the European Union. The Scientific Committee on Consumer Safety (SCCS) has explicitly deemed boron compounds, including MEA-BORATE, unsafe for use in cosmetics. Consequently, MEA-BORATE is prohibited by EU Cosmetics Regulation and is listed on the European Union Annex II List of Substances Prohibited in Cosmetic Products. PubChem further reports GHS Hazard Statements indicating it causes skin irritation and serious eye irritation.

Your Skin

Skin Compatibility

No Normal
No Dry
No Oily
No Sensitive
Irritancy Medium
Comedogenicity Unknown

Our Assessment

Verdict

Avoid

Due to severe safety concerns, including potential irritation and its explicit prohibition under EU Cosmetics Regulation, MEA-BORATE should be avoided in cosmetic formulations.

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