Cocamide MEA
AKA “Coconut acid monoethanolamide, Coconut oil MEA, N-Bis(2-hydroxyethyl)coconut oil amide
Synthetic
Ingredient Facts
Cocamide mea
AKA: Coconut acid monoethanolamide, Coconut oil MEA, N-Bis(2-hydroxyethyl)coconut oil amide
Synthetic · Cleansing · EWG: 4
Synthetic
Cleanser
Emulsifier
Plant Oil
Synthetic
Clean
A plant-derived cleanser that helps create a rich lather and keeps the formula stable and smooth on skin.
CAS #
68140-00-1
Form
Liquid
See origin →
Functions
Emulsion Stabilising
Forces oil and water to stay mixed instead of separating into layers. The unsung hero holding your lotion together.
Cleansing
Makes oil and water mix so dirt, makeup, and sunscreen can actually be washed away. The reason your face wash foams.
Emulsifying
Forces oil and water to stay mixed instead of separating into layers. The unsung hero holding your lotion together.
Foam Boosting
Viscosity Controlling
Stabilizes Emulsion
Cleansing Surfactant
Emulsifier
Boosts Lather
Locks In Moisture
Wound Healing
Fights Bacteria
Traditional Use
Developed in the mid-20th century as a coconut oil-derived surfactant and foam enhancer. Designed to provide similar cleansing and thickening properties as Cocamide DEA with improved stability in acidic formulations.
Skin Types
all-skin-types
Best For
General
Melanin-Rich Skin
Suitable
Pregnancy & Breastfeeding Safe
Yes
Allergen Warning
⚠️ Tree Nut (Coconut)
EWG
4
CIR
Safe w/Qualifications
Pregnancy
Yes
Restricted By
CIR Safety Findings
Not a Sensitizer
medical-approval
all-shades-safe
Regulatory Status
USApermitted
EUrestricted
JAPANrestricted
CANADArestricted
Verified Feb 2026
Data: CosIng · EWG · CIR