Skip to content

Other

BUTYL DIETHANOLAMINE

CAS 102-79-4
52

Safety score · 0–100

Moderate

Derived from EU CosIng regulatory status, PubChem hazard data and published research. How we score.

About

A diethanolamine derivative used as a surfactant and pH adjuster, subject to EU Annex III restriction (III/62) due to concerns about nitrosamine formation.

Butyl diethanolamine (butyl DEA) is listed in EU CosIng Annex III under reference III/62, which restricts the use of diethanolamine (DEA) and its derivatives in cosmetic products due to the risk of nitrosamine formation. DEA and DEA derivatives may react with nitrosating agents (e.g., preservatives like bronopol or sodium nitrite) to form N-nitrosodiethanolamine (NDELA), a suspected carcinogen. Under the restriction, butyl DEA can be used provided the formulation does not contain nitrosating agents, and purity requirements are met.

Skin benefits

  • pH adjustment — helps maintain optimal product acidity
  • Surfactant — aids in mixing and formulation stability

Known concerns

  • EU Annex III restricted (III/62) — nitrosamine formation risk
  • DEA derivatives may react with nitrosating agents to form NDELA (suspected carcinogen)
  • Mild skin and eye irritation

References

EU

EU CosIng database

European Commission cosmetic ingredient registry — regulatory status, restrictions, authorised functions.

Related others

52
1,4-bis(p-Tolylamino)anthraquinone
Other
 52
1-ETHYL-3-METHOXY-TRICYCLOHEPTANE
Other
 52
1-N-Methylmorpholiniumpropylamino-4-hydroxyanthraquinone, methyl sulfate
Other
 52
2,3-epoxypropyl neodecanoate
Other
 52
2,6-DIMETHYL-P-PHENYLENEDIAMINE
Other
 52
2-[(2-Nitrophenyl)amino] ethanol
Other
 52
2-[(2-methoxy-4-nitrophenyl)amino]ethanol and its salts
Other
 52
2-[(4-Chloro-2-nitrophenyl)azo]-N-(2-chlorophenyl)-3-oxobutyramide
Other

Check your shelf

Find BUTYL DIETHANOLAMINE in your products.

Scan any cosmetic product with LuxSense to see if it contains BUTYL DIETHANOLAMINE and get a full ingredient breakdown with safety scores.

This profile is for educational purposes and does not constitute medical advice. Regulatory status and scientific understanding evolve — always read the physical product label and consult a healthcare professional for personal concerns.