Ingredient
Diisopropanolamine
Diisopropanolamine is flagged for pregnancy and trying to conceive. The concern behind the strongest flag is absorbed into the body and fetal development.
- DIPA
- Bis(2-hydroxypropyl)amine
- 1,1'-Iminodiisopropanol
Verdict by profile
Truva checks every ingredient against six profiles. Jump to any of them for the full assessment.
- Strongest verdict
- Caution Advised
- Its verdict for pregnancy, the profile this one is worst in
- Profiles flagged
- 2 of 6
- Counting avoid, high risk and medium risk
- Irritancy
- 2 of 5
- Higher means more likely to sting or redden
Diisopropanolamine and pregnancy
Caution Advised
- Absorbed into the body
- Fetal development
Diisopropanolamine is an alkanolamine compound used to adjust pH and emulsify cosmetic formulations. It's commonly found in creams, lotions, and hair products to maintain product stability. Specific pregnancy safety data for topical DIPA is limited. The concern stems from alkanolamines' potential to form nitrosamines under certain conditions, which are known developmental toxicants. While topical absorption is generally low, the SCCS has noted theoretical concerns about systemic exposure during pregnancy, particularly with prolonged or widespread use. The EU's cosmetic regulations restrict alkanolamines and require that products be formulated to prevent nitrosamine formation. Most dermatologists recommend that pregnant women minimize exposure to alkanolamines as a precautionary measure, though topical use in small amounts is generally considered lower risk than oral exposure.
Diisopropanolamine and breastfeeding
Safe to Use
Diisopropanolamine is used in cosmetic formulations primarily as a pH adjuster. When applied topically, systemic absorption is minimal, particularly from leave-on products. There is no specific data on DIPA transfer into breast milk. Given the low systemic absorption from topical application and the fact that it's used in relatively small amounts in cosmetic formulations, the risk to breastfed infants is considered minimal. Breastfeeding women can generally use products containing DIPA without concern, though avoiding application directly to the breast area before breastfeeding is a reasonable precaution. If skin irritation occurs, discontinue use.
Diisopropanolamine and postpartum
Safe to Use
For postpartum women who are not breastfeeding, diisopropanolamine in cosmetics poses minimal risk. The primary concerns relate to potential skin irritation rather than systemic effects. Standard cosmetic use is generally safe. Women with sensitive skin postpartum may experience increased irritation, in which case gentler pH adjusters like citric acid or lactic acid may be preferable.
Diisopropanolamine and trying to conceive
Caution Advised
- Hormone disruptor
For women trying to conceive, the approach to diisopropanolamine should be similar to early pregnancy, as conception timing can be uncertain. The theoretical concern about nitrosamine formation applies to the preconception period. While direct evidence linking topical DIPA to fertility issues is lacking, many reproductive health specialists recommend minimizing exposure to alkanolamines when actively trying to conceive. This is a precautionary approach rather than one based on proven harm.
Diisopropanolamine and PCOS
Safe to Use
Diisopropanolamine is a pH-adjusting ingredient with no known hormonal activity or impact on androgen levels, making it irrelevant to PCOS management. There is no evidence that DIPA affects insulin sensitivity, hormone balance, or inflammatory markers associated with PCOS. Women with PCOS can use products containing this ingredient without concern for their condition. The only consideration for PCOS users is that those with acne-prone skin should monitor for any increased breakouts, though DIPA itself is not significantly comedogenic.
Diisopropanolamine and general use
Safe to Use
- Irritant
- Common allergen
For the general population, diisopropanolamine in cosmetics is considered low-risk when used as directed. It serves functional purposes in product formulation and is present in concentrations deemed safe by regulatory bodies. The primary concerns are skin and eye irritation, particularly in individuals with sensitive skin or when products contain higher concentrations. Contact dermatitis has been reported in some cases. The SCCS has emphasized that products must be formulated to prevent nitrosamine formation. The EU and FDA both allow DIPA in cosmetics with certain restrictions. Products are generally safe for daily use, though individuals with sensitive skin may prefer alternatives. Avoid contact with eyes and discontinue use if irritation develops.
Everything else flagged for the same profiles
Related ingredients
Ingredients suggested in place of Diisopropanolamine, each one with its own page here.
Ingredients that raise the same concerns.
Where this came from
Truva summarises published guidance from bodies including ACOG, the FDA, the EU SCCS and the Cosmetic Ingredient Review. It has no access to your medical history and it is not a substitute for your doctor, dermatologist or midwife. These assessments have not been reviewed by a clinician, and nothing here is a diagnosis or a prescription. If you are pregnant, breastfeeding or being treated for PCOS, take the ingredient list to the person looking after you.
Assessment last pulled from the ingredient database on .
One ingredient is the easy case.
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