What are Ethanolamines?
Ethanolamines, including Diethanolamine (DEA) and Triethanolamine (TEA), are a chemical group comprised of amino acids (the building blocks of proteins) and alcohols. They are commonly found in a variety of consumer products ranging from cosmetics to household cleaners. However, they’ve raised significant health concerns due to their potential link to liver tumors and other serious conditions.
The Dangers of Ethanolamines
DEA serves as an emulsifier in products like shampoos, cleaners, and detergents. Meanwhile, TEA functions as a fragrance, pH adjuster, and emulsifying agent. When ethanolamines are present in the same formulation as specific preservatives that decompose into nitrogen, there is a potential risk of nitrosamine formation. Nitrosamines consist of over a dozen chemical compounds that the International Agency for Research on Cancer has categorized as possible and known carcinogens. Additionally, the National Toxicology Program Report on Carcinogens identifies 15 specific nitrosamines as reasonably anticipated human carcinogens. Within cosmetic formulations, DEA can interact with other components, leading to the production of a carcinogen known as nitrosodiethanolamine (NDEA), which can be absorbed through the skin.
Where Are They Found?
You might be surprised to learn that ethanolamines are present in:
- Pharmaceutical ointments
- Eyeliners
- Mascara
- Eye shadows
- Blush
- Make-up bases
- Foundations
- Fragrances
- Lotions
- Hair conditioners and dyes
- Foundations
- Fragrances
- Soaps
- Shampoos
- Sunscreens Soaps
- Shaving creams
- Household cleaning supplies
What to Look For:
Ethanolamines can be described using the following terms on labels:
- Linoleamide MEA
- Myristamide DEA
- Oleamide DEA
- Stearamide MEA
- TEA-lauryl sulfate
- Cocamide MEA
- DEA-cetyl phosphate
- DEA oleth-3 phosphate
- Stearamide MEA
- TEA-lauryl sulfate
- Cocamide DEA
- Lauramide DEA
- Oleamide DEA
- Triethanolamine
- Diethanolamine
- DEA
- TEA
Health Risks:
Research has linked these compounds to serious health issues such as:
– Cancer: NDEA is recognized as a carcinogen that has been shown to induce liver cancer and kidney tumors in animal studies.
– Bioaccumulation: A significant amount of DEA remains on the skin after using products, raising concerns about its long-term effects.
– Organ System Toxicity: Studies indicate that DEA can affect male reproductive health and accumulate in vital organs, potentially leading to neurotoxic effects and developmental issues in offspring.
Regulations:
Regulations on ethanolamine compounds vary by country and context but generally focus on their safety in consumer products, particularly cosmetics and household goods.
In the United States: The Environmental Protection Agency (EPA) and the Food and Drug Administration (FDA) oversee their use.
1. Cosmetics: The FDA requires that cosmetic ingredients be safe for consumer use. Ethanolamines, such as DEA and TEA, must be included in product labeling, and any safety concerns or regulatory actions related to specific compounds will be addressed through guidelines from the Cosmetic Ingredient Review (CIR) panel.
2. Toxicology Studies: The National Toxicology Program (NTP) and the International Agency for Research on Cancer (IARC) assess the carcinogenic potential of chemicals, including ethanolamines, which has implications for their regulatory status and use in various products.
3. Occupational Safety: The Occupational Safety and Health Administration (OSHA) has established permissible exposure limits for ethanolamines in workplace settings, recognizing their potential health risks.
Europe: In the European Union, ethanolamines are subject to regulations under REACH (Registration, Evaluation, Authorisation and Restriction of Chemicals), which requires manufacturers and importers to register their chemicals and demonstrate their safety. Overall, while ethanolamines can be used in various applications, regulatory scrutiny emphasizes safety evaluations, labeling requirements, and exposure limits to mitigate health risks.
How to Protect Yourself:
Always check the labels of cosmetics, personal care items, and household products. Look out for ingredients like DEA, TEA, and MEA to minimize your exposure to these harmful compounds. Stay informed and prioritize your health and well-being!
References
- Stout, M. D., Kissling, G. E., Suárez, F. A., Malarkey, D. E., Herbert, R. A., & Bucher, J. R. (2008). The effect of Helicobacter hepaticus infection on the chronic toxicity and carcinogenic potential of triethanolamine in B6C3F1 mice. Toxicologic Pathology, 36(6), 783-794.
- Triethanolamine. Available at: http://www.ewg.org/skindeep/ingredient/706639/TRIETHANOLAMINE/.
- Agents Classified by the IARC Monographs, Volumes 1–109. Available at: http://monographs.iarc.fr/ENG/Classification/ClassificationsAlphaOrder.pdf.
- Report on Carcinogens, Twelfth Edition (2011). Available at: http://ntp.niehs.nih.gov/ntp/roc/twelfth/profiles/Nitrosamines.pdf.
- Hepatocarcinogenic. Available at: http://www.merriam-webster.com/medical/hepatocarcinogenic.
