Is cocamide diethanolamine causes cancer in humans? - #31539
I am planning to buy a shower gel from atrimed plant science brand which is a ayurvedic but i need to clarify that in that shower gel i find a chemical cocamide diethanolamine and sls or sles chemicals...through reasarch i found that it causes carcinogens in humans especailly cocamide dea...in that shower gel they using the quantity SLES -1.70g, Cocamide dea - 0. 30g, SLS-0.18g ....please clarify this..
Doctors’ responses
This is an excellent and very important question. It shows that you’re being a smart and proactive consumer by looking at the ingredient list of a product. Let’s break down the chemicals you’ve identified and the concerns associated with them.
Cocamide DEA (Diethanolamine) You are right to be concerned about Cocamide DEA.
Carcinogen Link: The state of California has listed Cocamide DEA as a chemical “known to the state to cause cancer” under Proposition 65. The International Agency for Research on Cancer (IARC) also classifies “coconut oil diethanolamine condensate (cocamide DEA)” as a Group 2B carcinogen, meaning it’s “possibly carcinogenic to humans.”
How it works: Cocamide DEA is a foaming agent and thickener that gives products like shower gels, shampoos, and soaps their creamy, luxurious feel.
Mechanism of concern: The primary concern is that Cocamide DEA can react with other ingredients in a product to form nitrosamines, which are known carcinogens.
SLS and SLES (Sodium Lauryl Sulfate and Sodium Laureth Sulfate) SLS and SLES are very common surfactants used to create lather and clean. The safety of these ingredients is a frequent topic of debate.
SLS (Sodium Lauryl Sulfate): SLS is a strong detergent and can be a skin irritant, especially for people with sensitive skin, eczema, or other skin conditions. It can strip the skin of its natural oils, leading to dryness, redness, and itching.
SLES (Sodium Laureth Sulfate): SLES is a milder version of SLS. It is derived from SLS through a process called ethoxylation. This process can, however, lead to contamination with a byproduct called 1,4-dioxane, which is considered a probable human carcinogen.
Carcinogen Link: While SLS and SLES themselves have not been directly linked to cancer by major cancer organizations, the contamination of SLES with 1,4-dioxane is the primary health concern.
The Quantities in Your Shower Gel You mentioned the quantities:
SLES: 1.70g
Cocamide DEA: 0.30g
SLS: 0.18g
It’s difficult to determine the exact safety of these quantities without knowing the total volume of the product. The percentage of each ingredient is what matters most. For example, a 0.30g concentration of Cocamide DEA in a 100g shower gel is different than in a 500g one. However, it’s a good practice to be cautious, especially with an ingredient like Cocamide DEA that has been flagged by authoritative bodies.
What This Means for You Given your research and the information available, it is understandable that you have concerns. While the product may be marketed as “ayurvedic” and “plant science,” the presence of these synthetic chemicals, particularly Cocamide DEA, is a significant detail.
The “Ayurvedic” label: This often refers to the inclusion of certain botanical ingredients, but it does not guarantee that the product is free from synthetic chemicals. Many products blend traditional ingredients with modern chemical formulations.
The choice is yours: The decision to use this product depends on your personal risk tolerance. If you are concerned about the potential for carcinogens and skin irritation, you may want to look for a different product that is free from these ingredients. Many “sulfate-free” and “DEA-free” shower gels are available on the market.
In summary, your research is accurate. Cocamide DEA, SLS, and SLES are common cosmetic ingredients that have been associated with health concerns, including skin irritation and, in the case of Cocamide DEA and 1,4-dioxane (a potential contaminant in SLES), a possible link to cancer.
It is always a good idea to choose products with a transparent and clean ingredient list, especially if you have sensitive skin or are concerned about long-term chemical exposure.
Here are some brands and products you might consider, based on their claims and general reputation in the Indian market:
1. Kama Ayurveda:
Known for its high-end, authentic Ayurvedic products.
Their body cleansers are generally free from sulfates, parabens, and petrochemicals.
They have a range of options with traditional ingredients like rose and jasmine, Himalayan deodar, and lavender patchouli.
Look for their “Body Cleansers” line, which is specifically formulated as an alternative to conventional, chemical-laden body washes.
2. Forest Essentials:
Another luxury Ayurvedic brand that emphasizes natural and potent ingredients.
Their “Silkening Shower Washes” are formulated to be SLS-free and are known for their rich textures and authentic fragrances.
They have a wide variety of scents and ingredients, such as Indian Rose Absolute, Iced Pomegranate & Kerala Lime, and Mashobra Honey & Vanilla.
3. Khadi Natural:
A well-known brand that offers a range of Ayurvedic and herbal products at a more accessible price point.
They explicitly state that their products are free from parabens and sulfates.
You can find body washes with popular Ayurvedic and herbal ingredients like sandalwood, honey, rose, neem, and tulsi.
4. Just Herbs:
This brand focuses on herbal and Ayurvedic formulations that are also “cruelty-free” and “chemical-free.”
Their body washes are generally marketed as free from harsh chemicals, including sulfates and parabens.
They have options like Wild Indian Rose Body Wash and Tea Tree Anti-Acne Body Wash.
5. Sadhev:
This brand also prides itself on using powerful Ayurvedic ingredients and claims to be “Sulphate & Paraben Free.”
Their products are often vegan, cruelty-free, and ethically sourced.
They have unique blends like Ashwagandha, Oudh & Pomegranate.
6. Ashpveda:
This brand’s body washes are specifically marketed as being 100% free from sulfates, parabens, and synthetic fragrances.
They use traditional ingredients like Kashmiri saffron and neem.
What to Look for When Choosing:
Read the Ingredient List: Even if a product is marketed as “Ayurvedic,” always check the ingredient list to ensure it does not contain Cocamide DEA, SLS, or SLES. Look for a brand that clearly states its products are free from these specific chemicals.
Check for Substitutes: Brands that are truly sulfate-free will often use milder, plant-based cleansing agents. These might include names like Sodium Cocoyl Isethionate, Coco-Glucoside, or Decyl Glucoside. These are derived from coconut and are much gentler.
Certifications: While not always present, look for certifications that guarantee the product is organic, natural, or free of certain chemicals.
Your Skin’s Needs: Consider your specific skin type (dry, oily, sensitive) when choosing an Ayurvedic blend. Some ingredients are more hydrating (like honey or rose), while others are more purifying (like neem or tea tree).
By opting for brands that prioritize a clean ingredient list, you can enjoy the benefits of Ayurvedic herbs without the concerns associated with synthetic chemicals
The presence of coco mice dietanolamine in a shower gel is a concern because its is classified as a possible carcinogen , even though it’s in very lower percentage it’s better to avoid
Hello namasteh ,
I checked the ingredients of that shower gel you’re planning to buy. It does have some chemicals like SLS, SLES, and Cocamide DEA. These are mainly used to create foam and give that ‘clean’ feel. Now, the thing is they’re not immediately dangerous, but with long-term use, especially Cocamide DEA, there have been some safety concerns. SLS and SLES can also make the skin dry or irritated if your skin is a little sensitive.
Since it’s a shower gel, most of it washes off quickly, so the risk is less compared to creams or oils that stay on the skin. Still, because you want something really safe for daily use, I’d suggest looking for products that are free from these three chemicals. There are good Ayurvedic and herbal options made with ingredients like aloe vera, neem, or soapnut, which clean well and are much gentler on the skin.
So, it’s not that the one you chose is highly harmful right away but if you’re thinking long term, shifting to a cleaner option would be the safer choice.”
The concern about cocamide diethanolamine (DEA) and its potential carcinogenic effects primarily stems from studies where DEA was repeatedly applied in large quantities to animal skin, leading to cancer. The International Agency for Research on Cancer (IARC) classifies it as a possible human carcinogen based on limited evidence from animal studies, not humans directly. The cosmetic industry utilizes DEA derivatives like cocamide DEA in very small quantities to function as thickeners or foaming agents, typically deemed safe for general use. The used amount in your shower gel seems quite low, but given your concern, you may prefer opting for products without these chemicals.
From an Ayurvedic perspective, any external application should align with one’s dosha and prioritize overall wellbeing. These external agents can influence the body’s subtle energies and could potentially interfere with the skin’s natural state, if sensitive. Some individuals might find certain synthetic ingredients imbalancing to their skin’s prakriti, more particularly if they have sensitive or easily irritated skin.
You might consider a product that focuses on natural and herbal ingredients, acting gently without any unwanted side effects. Alternatives could include cleansers rich in neem, tulsi, or aloe vera, offering anti-bacterial, soothing, and nourishing properties. Ensure that your daily routine is balanced with an appropriate diet, soothing activities like regular self-massage, and maintaining hydration, which complements the skin’s health and vitality.
If any irritation or unusual reactions occur with the use of such products, immediate medical consultation is recommended. Lifestyle and environmental factors should always align with skin and body health, aiming for harmony and balance in every aspect of wellness.
Cocamide diethanolamine (DEA) has been classified by some health organizations as a potential carcinogen under certain conditions. The primary concern with cocamide DEA is its potential to form nitrosamines—a type of compound linked to cancer—when it reacts with certain other ingredients often present in personal care products. However, the risk is generally higher when cocamide DEA is used in large quantities over extended periods, as well as when it’s combined with nitrosating agents that can form nitrosamines.
As for shower gels, when used in moderation and as directed, the level of exposure to these ingredients is significantly lower. Many regulatory bodies allow the use of cocamide DEA in concentrations like those you’ve mentioned, which are below typical safety limits set for consumer use. Nonetheless, if you have concerns, it’s understandable to look for alternatives. If the ingredients do not align with your preferences or personal health goals, consider options without such chemicals.
In the context of Ayurveda and maintaining dosha balance, let me suggest that if you have vata-pitta prakriti, skin irritants could exacerbate imbalances, leading to dryness or irritation. Look for products with more natural emollients like neem, turmeric, or sandalwood which can harmonize skin without compromising safety. Additionally, implementing internal balance through hydration, a vata-pacifying diet, and including cooling foods like cucumber or coconut water may improve your skin’s resilience externally and internally.
For further peace of mind, you might explore brands that fully disclose their ingredient sourcing and production processes, ensuring no nitrosating agents are present that might interact with cocamide DEA. But, if serious health concerns persist, consult a healthcare provider to address any urgent questions about products’ safety based on your medical history.
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