Ingredient
Lauramide DEA
Lauramide DEA is flagged for pregnancy, breastfeeding, trying to conceive and general use. The concern behind the strongest flag is absorbed into the body and fetal development.
- Lauric Acid Diethanolamide
- Lauric Diethanolamide
- Coconut Oil Diethanolamide
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
- 4 of 6
- Counting avoid, high risk and medium risk
- Irritancy
- 3 of 5
- Higher means more likely to sting or redden
Lauramide DEA and pregnancy
Caution Advised
- Absorbed into the body
- Fetal development
Lauramide DEA is a surfactant created from diethanolamine (DEA) and lauric acid, used in cleansers and shampoos to create foam and thickness. It helps products lather well and improves their texture, making it a popular ingredient in personal care products. The concern during pregnancy stems from studies showing that DEA and its derivatives can be absorbed through the skin and have been linked to potential developmental effects in animal studies. Research published in the journal Toxicology found that topical exposure to DEA in pregnant mice resulted in reduced fetal weight and altered brain development. While human studies are limited, the potential for nitrosamine formation (known carcinogens) and the evidence of systemic absorption create uncertainty about safety during the critical developmental period of pregnancy. While there are no explicit bans on Lauramide DEA during pregnancy from ACOG, many obstetricians and dermatologists recommend choosing cleansers without DEA-derived ingredients as a precautionary measure. The EU has implemented restrictions on DEA compounds in cosmetics, reflecting regulatory concern about these ingredients. Pregnant women may prefer to use DEA-free alternatives, especially given that safer surfactants are readily available.
Lauramide DEA and breastfeeding
Caution Advised
- Absorbed into the body
- Infant exposure
Lauramide DEA is a foaming agent used in cleansing products. While primarily used in rinse-off formulations, some absorption through the skin can occur, particularly with repeated exposure or use on compromised skin. The concern for breastfeeding mothers relates to DEA's ability to be absorbed systemically and potentially transfer into breast milk. Animal studies have shown that DEA can interfere with choline uptake, a nutrient critical for infant brain development. While specific data on transfer to human breast milk is limited, the potential for exposure combined with the known irritant and sensitizing properties makes this ingredient one that many healthcare providers suggest avoiding during breastfeeding. The AAD does not specifically address Lauramide DEA for breastfeeding mothers, but many dermatologists recommend choosing gentler, DEA-free surfactants during this period. If using products containing this ingredient, ensure thorough rinsing and avoid application near the breast area. Consider that safer alternatives exist that provide similar cleansing benefits without the potential risks.
Lauramide DEA and postpartum
Safe to Use
- Irritant
Lauramide DEA can be used by postpartum women who are not breastfeeding, though it may cause irritation, especially if skin is already sensitive from postpartum hormonal changes. The ingredient is commonly found in body washes and shampoos as a foam booster. Postpartum skin can be more reactive due to hormonal fluctuations, and Lauramide DEA's irritant potential may be more noticeable during this time. If you experience any irritation, dryness, or allergic reactions, consider switching to gentler, DEA-free cleansers. While not prohibited for postpartum use, there are many alternative surfactants available that are less likely to cause skin sensitivity.
Lauramide DEA and trying to conceive
Caution Advised
- Absorbed into the body
Lauramide DEA is best avoided when trying to conceive due to the same concerns that apply during pregnancy. Animal studies have suggested potential developmental effects from DEA exposure, and while human data is limited, the precautionary approach is to minimize exposure before conception. Many healthcare providers recommend that women start avoiding questionable ingredients like Lauramide DEA when actively trying to conceive, as early pregnancy may not be detected immediately. Since DEA compounds can be absorbed systemically and have shown developmental effects in animal models, choosing DEA-free alternatives during the preconception period is a conservative approach that many experts support.
Lauramide DEA and PCOS
Safe to Use
- Irritant
Lauramide DEA is a surfactant used in cleansing products and does not have direct effects on hormones or PCOS symptoms. However, its potential to irritate skin may be a concern for women with PCOS who often deal with inflammatory acne and sensitive skin. While this ingredient does not interfere with androgen levels or insulin sensitivity, its irritating properties can worsen inflammation in acne-prone skin common in PCOS. The comedogenic rating of 4 suggests it may also contribute to clogged pores, potentially exacerbating breakouts. For women with PCOS managing acne and oily skin, gentler surfactants that are less comedogenic and irritating may be better choices. Consider DEA-free alternatives that provide effective cleansing without the potential for increased inflammation or pore-clogging. There are no hormonal contraindications to using this ingredient with PCOS, but skin-friendly alternatives may be more beneficial.
Lauramide DEA and general use
Caution Advised
- Irritant
- Common allergen
- Carcinogen concern
Lauramide DEA is a surfactant and foam booster commonly found in shampoos, bubble baths, and body washes. It creates rich lather and helps thicken product formulations, making cleansers feel more luxurious and effective. The main health concerns with Lauramide DEA include its potential to form nitrosamines (carcinogenic compounds) when combined with certain preservatives, its classification as a skin and eye irritant, and its potential to cause allergic contact dermatitis. The IARC has classified DEA as possibly carcinogenic to humans based on animal studies. Additionally, studies have shown that DEA can be absorbed through the skin and may accumulate in body tissues with repeated exposure. The SCCS in the EU has restricted DEA and DEA-related ingredients, requiring that finished cosmetic products be free from detectable nitrosamine contamination. Many major cosmetic brands are voluntarily phasing out DEA compounds in favor of safer alternatives like cocamidopropyl betaine or decyl glucoside. While not banned in the US, consumer awareness has led to decreased use of these ingredients in favor of gentler, more modern surfactants.
Everything else flagged for the same profiles
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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 .
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