MEA-Borate

MEA-Borate and pregnancy

Caution Advised

• Absorbed into the body
• Irritant

MEA-Borate is a pH buffering agent formed from monoethanolamine and boric acid. While it serves a technical function in cosmetics, both components raise some considerations during pregnancy. The concern with MEA-Borate during pregnancy stems from the monoethanolamine component, which can be absorbed through skin and has shown some developmental effects in animal studies at high doses. Additionally, borate compounds (related to boric acid) have restrictions in cosmetics due to potential reproductive concerns, though topical exposure levels in cosmetics are typically much lower than doses associated with risk. The scientific evidence on topical MEA-Borate specifically during pregnancy is limited. While there are no absolute prohibitions from ACOG on topical MEA-Borate use, the precautionary principle suggests considering alternatives when possible. Many dermatologists recommend that pregnant women opt for products with simpler buffering systems due to the theoretical concerns with both components, though the actual risk from cosmetic use appears low.

MEA-Borate and breastfeeding

Safe to Use

• Irritant

MEA-Borate functions as a buffering agent in cosmetic formulations. During breastfeeding, the primary concern is avoiding direct infant contact rather than systemic transfer through breast milk. There is limited specific data on MEA-Borate transfer into breast milk. However, the topical application of pH adjusters like MEA-Borate results in minimal systemic absorption. The greater concern is preventing direct contact with the infant's skin or ingestion from products applied to the breast area. Breastfeeding mothers can generally use products containing MEA-Borate on body areas away from the breast. As with all cosmetic ingredients, products should not be applied directly to the nipple or areola area to prevent infant exposure during breastfeeding.

MEA-Borate and postpartum

Safe to Use

• Irritant

MEA-Borate serves as a pH adjuster in cosmetic products. For postpartum women who are not breastfeeding, the considerations are similar to those for the general population, primarily relating to potential skin irritation. There are no specific postpartum concerns with MEA-Borate beyond standard skin sensitivity. Women with postpartum skin sensitivity may experience mild irritation, but this is not unique to the postpartum period.

MEA-Borate and trying to conceive

Safe to Use

MEA-Borate is a pH adjuster used in cosmetic formulations. While there are theoretical concerns about borate compounds at high systemic doses, topical cosmetic use presents minimal exposure levels that are unlikely to affect fertility. There is no evidence that topical use of MEA-Borate at cosmetic concentrations affects fertility or conception rates. Women trying to conceive can generally continue using products containing this ingredient, though some may prefer to switch to simpler formulations as a precautionary measure.

MEA-Borate and PCOS

Safe to Use

MEA-Borate is a pH buffering agent with no known hormonal activity or effects on androgen metabolism. It functions purely as a technical ingredient to maintain product stability. There is no evidence that topical MEA-Borate affects hormonal balance, insulin sensitivity, or other aspects of PCOS pathology. Women with PCOS can use products containing this ingredient without concern for hormonal interference. The only consideration for women with PCOS is potential skin irritation, which may be of concern if the skin is already sensitized from other acne treatments or hormonal effects.

MEA-Borate and general use

Safe to Use

• Irritant

MEA-Borate is used as a pH buffer and stabilizer in cosmetic formulations. It helps maintain the optimal pH range for product efficacy and stability. The primary concern with MEA-Borate is potential skin and eye irritation, particularly in sensitive individuals or at higher concentrations. The Cosmetic Ingredient Review has evaluated monoethanolamine derivatives and concluded they are safe in cosmetic formulations when used as directed and formulated to minimize nitrosamine formation. For the general population, MEA-Borate is considered safe at the concentrations used in cosmetics. Individuals with sensitive skin may experience mild irritation and could opt for products with alternative buffering systems.

Everything else flagged for the same profiles

• Flagged in pregnancy

Related ingredients

Ingredients that raise the same concerns.

• Parfum/FragranceIrritant, Absorbed into the body
• Salicylic AcidIrritant, Absorbed into the body
• Lavandula Angustifolia OilIrritant, Absorbed into the body
• Melaleuca Alternifolia Leaf OilIrritant, Absorbed into the body
• EugenolIrritant, Absorbed into the body
• Rosmarinus Officinalis Leaf OilIrritant, Absorbed into the body

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 15 September 2026.