Ethanolamines help to remove dirt and oil from the skin and dissolve grease.
Ethanolamines are made by chemically reacting ethylene oxide and ammonia. The two most common types found in personal care products are monoethanolamine (MEA) and diethanolamine (DEA).
MEA is a clear, colorless liquid with an ammonia-like odor. It serves as a surfactant, a hair fixative and a preservative. It is commonly found in hair gels and hair sprays to help hair stay in place or in other hair care products to maintain shelf life. DEA is an emulsifier to help products foam or have a creamy consistency. It can also adjust pH level. DEA is common in cleansers, shampoos and body washes.
Ethanolamines can be used in all skin types but those with sensitive skin or eczema-prone skin can get more dryness and irritation.
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Grossman R. The role of dimethylaminoethanol in cosmetic dermatology. Am J Clin Dermatol. 2005;6(1):39-47.
Rockenfeller P, Carmona-Gutierrez D, Pietrocola F, Kroemer G, Madeo F. Ethanolamine: A novel anti-aging agent. Mol Cell Oncol. 2015 Mar 19;3(1):e1019023.
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