Ingredient guide
DEA, MEA & TEA (Ethanolamines) in Lip Gloss
What DEA, MEA & TEA (Ethanolamines) does in lip gloss and how it's regulated.
About DEA, MEA & TEA (Ethanolamines)
A group of amino acid-based emulsifiers and pH adjusters.
Why brands use it in lip gloss
Act as emulsifiers, foaming agents, and pH adjusters. They create creamy textures and help blend oil and water phases in formulations.
Regulatory status
- US FDA: Not banned in the US. FDA advises manufacturers to remove nitrosamines from products but does not enforce testing.
- European Union: Not permitted in cosmetics
- Canada: Restricted in cosmetics
Common alternatives
Other ingredients formulators use for a similar job in lip gloss:
decyl glucoside
coco glucoside
sodium cocoyl glutamate
citric acid (for pH adjustment)
DEA, MEA & TEA (Ethanolamines) in other product types
FAQ
What is DEA, MEA & TEA (Ethanolamines)?
A group of amino acid-based emulsifiers and pH adjusters.
Why is DEA, MEA & TEA (Ethanolamines) used in lip gloss?
Act as emulsifiers, foaming agents, and pH adjusters. They create creamy textures and help blend oil and water phases in formulations.
How is DEA, MEA & TEA (Ethanolamines) regulated?
Not banned in the US. FDA advises manufacturers to remove nitrosamines from products but does not enforce testing. It is not permitted in cosmetics sold in the EU. Canada restricts its use in cosmetics.
Does Numbrrrz lip balm contain DEA, MEA & TEA (Ethanolamines)?
No. Numbrrrz is organic coconut oil, organic beeswax, organic jojoba oil and vitamin E, plus organic essential oils or flavoring in the scented versions. That is a formulation choice, not a judgment about other products.
