Cocamide DEA Supplier South Africa

What Is Cocamide DEA?

Cocamide DEA (cocamide diethanolamine) is a non-ionic surfactant and foam booster derived by condensing coconut oil fatty acids with diethanolamine. It functions primarily as a co-surfactant that enhances the foaming volume and foam stability of anionic surfactant systems, while also building viscosity in aqueous formulations. It is one of the most widely used foam boosters in homecare and personal care detergent products.

Formulation Function and Benefits

At inclusion levels of 1–5%, cocamide DEA increases foam height, improves the wet feel of detergent solutions, and imparts a pearlescent or creamy appearance when the formula is cooled. It also acts as a mild solubiliser for fragrance oils and other hydrophobic components, improving formulation stability. Its thickening effect reduces the need for salt (sodium chloride) as a sole viscosity builder, particularly useful in low-salt or salt-sensitive formulations.

Supply and Regulatory Considerations

Cocamide DEA contains trace levels of free DEA, and formulators in markets regulated by the EU Cosmetics Regulation should monitor nitrosamine formation when combining with nitrosating agents. Terracore Chemicals supplies industrial-grade and cosmetic-grade cocamide DEA in drums and IBCs, and can provide documentation for regulatory submissions. We advise on suitable alternatives such as cocamide MIPA or coco-glucosides for formulations targeting stricter regulatory markets.