Cocamide MEA (Monoethanolamine) is a nonionic surfactant and foam booster derived from the reaction of coconut fatty acids with monoethanolamine.
It is widely used in personal care, cosmetic, and cleaning products for its excellent emulsifying, thickening, and foam-stabilizing properties.
Cocamide MEA enhances texture, improves cleansing performance, and increases viscosity in a broad range of rinse-off formulations.
CAS Number: 68140-00-1
EC Number: 268-770-2
Molecular Formula: Variable (mixture of fatty acid monoethanolamides)
Molecular Weight: Variable (depending on chain length)
Synonyms: Cocamide MEA, Coconut monoethanolamide, Coconut fatty acid monoethanolamide, Monoethanolamide of coconut oil, MEA Cocamide, Nonionic surfactant Cocamide MEA, Cocamide MEA foam booster, Cocamide MEA thickener, Cocamide MEA emulsifier, Cocamide MEA detergent additive, Cocamide MEA cleansing agent, Coconut amide MEA, Cocamide monoethanolamine, Coconut oil monoethanolamide, Coconut-derived MEA, Coconut-based nonionic surfactant, Coconut acid monoethanolamide, Cocamide MEA foaming agent, Ethanolamide of coconut fatty acid, Cocamide MEA viscosity modifier, Cocamide MEA 68140-00-1, MEA amide surfactant, Cocamide MEA for shampoo, Cocamide MEA for body wash, Cocamide MEA mild cleanser, Coconut oil amide MEA, Cocamide MEA personal care additive, Cocamide MEA for cosmetics, Cocamide MEA surfactant blend, Cocamide MEA cleansing base, Cocamide MEA for hand soap, Cocamide MEA co-surfactant
APPLICATIONS
Cocamide MEA is widely used in shampoos and hair cleansers to improve lather, stabilize foam, and increase viscosity.
Cocamide MEA is included in facial cleansers, body washes, and liquid soaps to enhance texture and cleansing power.
Cocamide MEA is employed in shaving creams and foaming gels for improved emulsion stability and softness.
Cocamide MEA is found in bubble baths and children’s bath products for its gentle, foaming performance.
Cocamide MEA is added to dishwashing liquids and household cleaners for effective grease-cutting and foam enhancement.
Cocamide MEA is used in pet grooming products and animal shampoos for its mild, skin-compatible cleansing action.
Cocamide MEA is incorporated into industrial and institutional cleaning products for increased surfactant efficiency.
Cocamide MEA is suitable for both transparent and opaque surfactant systems.
Cocamide MEA is compatible with anionic, cationic, amphoteric, and nonionic surfactants.
Cocamide MEA (Monoethanolamide of coconut fatty acid) is widely used in personal care products, such as shampoos, where it acts as a surfactant, helping to create a rich lather while providing gentle cleansing.
Cocamide MEA is employed in the formulation of body washes and shower gels, where it helps to improve the texture of the product, enhance foaming properties, and gently cleanse the skin without stripping its natural oils.
Cocamide MEA is used in the production of facial cleansers, where it provides mild cleansing action, removing impurities while keeping the skin hydrated and preventing over-drying.
Cocamide MEA is applied in the formulation of bar soaps, where it serves as a foaming agent, helping to create a creamy lather that provides a smooth and gentle wash.
Cocamide MEA is used in the production of shaving creams, where it helps improve spreadability, create a smooth foam, and soften the skin, facilitating a closer and more comfortable shave.
Cocamide MEA is employed in the formulation of hair conditioners, where it helps to provide a creamy texture, improve hair manageability, and enhance the conditioning effect for smoother hair.
Cocamide MEA is used in the production of hand soaps and liquid soap formulations, where it contributes to foaming, ensures proper emulsification, and provides a gentle yet effective cleaning experience.
Cocamide MEA is used in the formulation of baby shampoos and body care products, where its mild surfactant properties help cleanse without causing irritation or damage to sensitive skin.
Cocamide MEA is used in the production of deodorants and antiperspirants, where it helps to enhance product texture, emulsify ingredients, and improve the stability of the formulation.
Cocamide MEA is used in the formulation of facial masks, where it helps to emulsify oils and water in the product, providing a smooth application and gentle removal of impurities from the skin.
Cocamide MEA is employed in the development of laundry detergents, where it acts as a surfactant to help improve the cleaning power of the detergent, enhancing its ability to remove oils and stains.
Cocamide MEA is used in the formulation of pet shampoos, where its mild cleansing properties help clean and condition pets’ fur without causing irritation to the skin.
Cocamide MEA is employed in the formulation of oral hygiene products, such as toothpaste, where it helps with emulsification and enhances foaming action for effective cleaning.
Cocamide MEA is used in the preparation of baby wipes, where it acts as a gentle cleansing agent that removes dirt and impurities while being mild on the skin.
Cocamide MEA is applied in the formulation of hair styling products like gels and mousses, where it helps stabilize the product, improve texture, and provide hold without causing dryness.
Cocamide MEA is used in the production of hand sanitizers, where it helps to stabilize the formula and create a smoother texture for easy application.
Cocamide MEA is employed in the manufacture of skin creams and lotions, where it helps with emulsification, providing a smooth, rich texture that enhances the feel of the product on the skin.
Cocamide MEA is used in the formulation of acne treatments, where its mild surfactant properties help cleanse the skin, removing impurities and excess oils without exacerbating acne.
Cocamide MEA is used in the production of facial exfoliators, where it helps emulsify the exfoliating beads or particles and provides a creamy texture that enhances the exfoliation process.
Cocamide MEA is employed in the formulation of cleansing wipes, where it helps emulsify and clean the skin while leaving a refreshing, smooth finish.
Cocamide MEA is used in the production of bath oils and foams, where it helps create a rich, smooth lather that nourishes the skin while cleansing.
Cocamide MEA is used in the formulation of sun care products, where it enhances texture, improves spreadability, and helps emulsify other ingredients like oils and sunscreens.
Cocamide MEA is applied in the development of lip balms, where it helps stabilize the formula, enhance texture, and provide a smooth, moisturizing application.
Cocamide MEA is employed in the production of home cleaning products, such as surface cleaners, where it helps to emulsify and disperse oils, dirt, and grime effectively.
Cocamide MEA is used in the manufacture of industrial degreasers, where it helps improve the ability of the product to emulsify and remove grease from surfaces.
DESCRIPTION
Cocamide MEA is a viscous, light yellow to amber paste or wax-like solid with a mild fatty odor.
It is derived by reacting coconut fatty acids with monoethanolamine, producing a mixture of monoethanolamides.
Cocamide MEA serves as a foam stabilizer, viscosity modifier, and mild cleansing agent in various formulations.
Cocamide MEA is especially valued in sulfate-based and sulfate-free surfactant systems.
It enhances product stability and texture without significantly affecting pH or clarity.
Cocamide MEA contributes to a rich, creamy lather and improved skin feel.
It is biodegradable and considered safe for personal care use when formulated within recommended limits.
Cocamide MEA is compatible with most formulation additives, including fragrances, oils, and botanical extracts.
Its performance remains consistent across a wide range of temperatures and water hardness levels.
Cocamide MEA (Monoethanolamide of coconut fatty acid) is a mild surfactant derived from coconut oil, primarily used in personal care products for its foaming, emulsifying, and cleansing properties.
Cocamide MEA is a yellowish or amber liquid with a characteristic odor, soluble in water and alcohol, and used widely as a foaming agent and emulsifier in various cosmetic and cleaning formulations.
Cocamide MEA works by reducing the surface tension between water and oils, helping to form stable emulsions, create rich lathers, and improve the texture of products.
Cocamide MEA is used in both consumer and professional applications, particularly in shampoos, body washes, and facial cleansers, where it provides gentle, effective cleansing without stripping the skin of its natural oils.
Cocamide MEA has mild surfactant properties, which make it suitable for use in products for sensitive skin, including baby care items and hypoallergenic formulations.
Cocamide MEA is used in a wide range of personal care products, including hair care, skin care, and oral hygiene products, where it enhances the sensory properties and effectiveness of the product.
Cocamide MEA is biodegradable and considered to be an environmentally friendly ingredient, making it suitable for eco-conscious formulations.
Cocamide MEA is often used in combination with other surfactants to improve the stability, viscosity, and overall performance of cleaning products, ensuring a smooth texture and consistent product performance.
Cocamide MEA is stable under a wide range of pH conditions, making it suitable for use in formulations designed for different skin types and environmental conditions.
Cocamide MEA is a versatile ingredient that not only provides cleansing properties but also contributes to the texture, stability, and overall user experience of personal care and household products.
PROPERTIES
Chemical Nature: Nonionic ethanolamide surfactant
Appearance: Light yellow to amber paste or waxy solid
Odor: Mild, fatty odor
Solubility: Dispersible in water; soluble in alcohols and glycols
Viscosity: High (temperature-dependent)
pH (1% solution): Approx. 9.0–10.5
Melting Point: 55–65°C
Boiling Point: >200°C
Density: Approx. 0.95–1.02 g/cm³
HLB Value: Approx. 8–9
Stability: Stable in a wide pH and temperature range
Storage Temperature: Store between 15–30°C
Shelf Life: 24 months in tightly sealed containers
FIRST AID
Inhalation:
Move person to fresh air.
Seek medical attention if respiratory symptoms develop.
Skin Contact:
Wash affected area with soap and water.
Seek medical help if irritation or rash occurs.
Eye Contact:
Rinse eyes thoroughly with clean water for at least 15 minutes.
Seek immediate medical attention if symptoms persist.
Ingestion:
Rinse mouth and drink water.
Do not induce vomiting.
Seek medical attention for large ingestions or adverse effects.
Note to Physicians:
Treat symptomatically.
Generally low acute toxicity.
HANDLING AND STORAGE
Handling:
Use gloves and eye protection during handling.
Avoid contact with eyes and prolonged skin exposure.
Work in a well-ventilated area and prevent dust or fume generation during heating.
Spill and Leak Procedures:
Collect spilled material with absorbent and dispose according to local regulations.
Clean affected area with detergent and water.
Storage:
Store Cocamide MEA in tightly sealed containers in a cool, dry place.
Avoid exposure to moisture, heat, and strong oxidizers.
Label and segregate clearly in warehouse storage.
Handling Cautions:
Do not overheat during melting or mixing.
Maintain good industrial hygiene practices during processing.