Back to Ingredient Dictionary

STEARAMIDE DEA

Description

Stearamide DEA, or stearamide diethanolamine, is a multifunctional ingredient commonly used in skincare and personal care products. This compound is derived from the fatty acid stearic acid and diethanolamine, resulting in an emulsifier and surfactant with both hydrophilic and lipophilic properties.

In formulations, Stearamide DEA serves primarily as an emollient and thickening agent, contributing to the texture and consistency of creams, lotions, and cleansers. It helps to stabilize oil-in-water emulsions, preventing separation of ingredients and improving product shelf life. The ingredient also functions as a foam booster in cleansing products, enhancing lather production and overall user experience.

While Stearamide DEA offers beneficial properties in skincare formulations, it has faced scrutiny due to concerns about potential nitrosamine formation. Nitrosamines are compounds that may have carcinogenic effects. As a result, some regulatory bodies have recommended limiting its use or finding alternative ingredients.

When formulating with Stearamide DEA, it's crucial to consider its pH-dependent stability and potential interactions with other ingredients. Typically used at concentrations between 1-5%, this ingredient requires careful integration into formulations to optimize its performance while addressing safety considerations.