Cocamide Methyl MEA is a mild, alkanolamide-free surfactant. It is derived from coconut fatty acids and methyl monoethanolamine. It acts as a high-performance foam booster, viscosity enhancer and mildness additive in rinse-off formulations. Widely used in shampoos, body washes, facial cleansers and baby products, it delivers rich, stable lather while reducing irritation from primary anionic surfactants. Its excellent toxicological profile makes it a preferred choice for sensitive skin and “tear-free” claims.
Products with COCAMIDE METHYL MEA
With samples available
What is COCAMIDE METHYL MEA used for?
- Foam boosting: Creates dense, creamy foam even in hard water. Essential in shampoos and shower gels for luxurious lather.
- Viscosity building: Thickens surfactant systems efficiently at low use levels. Common in clear and pearlized body washes.
- Mildness enhancer: Reduces irritation potential of SLES/SLS blends. Ideal for baby shampoos, sensitive-skin cleansers and intimate washes.
Origin
Cocamide Methyl MEA is produced by reacting coconut-derived fatty acids (primarily C12-C14) with N-methyl monoethanolamine. It is followed by controlled ethoxylation. The process eliminates diethanolamine entirely, resulting in an ultra-mild, DEA-free and amide-free alternative to traditional Cocamide MEA/DEA. The final product is a clear to slightly hazy liquid with 100% renewable carbon content.
What does COCAMIDE METHYL MEA do in a formulation?
FOAM BOOSTING|
SURFACTANT|
VISCOSITY CONTROLLINGSafety Profile
Cocamide Methyl MEA is considered very safe for rinse-off cosmetic use, scoring EWG 1-2. It is free from nitrosamines, 1,4-dioxane (when properly manufactured) and diethanolamine. Eye and skin irritation studies show significantly lower scores than Cocamide DEA/MEA. Use levels of 1 to 10% are well tolerated. Approved by EU COSING and meets strict baby-care and natural standards (e.g., COSMOS, NaTrue) when sourced accordingly.
COCAMIDE METHYL MEA alternatives
COCAMIDE METHYL MEA technical profile
| Property | Values |
| Boiling Point | >200°C (decomposes) |
| Melting Point | <5°C |
| pH | 8.0 - 10.0 |
| Solubility | Fully soluble in water |
| Viscosity | Low |