Surfactant
DIETHYLAMINE LAURETH SULFATE
Safety score · 0–100
Caution
Derived from EU CosIng regulatory status, PubChem hazard data and published research. How we score.
About
A diethylamine-neutralised laureth sulfate. The secondary-amine counter-ion is a precursor for NDEA, an IARC Group 2A probable carcinogen.
Diethylamine laureth sulfate is the diethylamine salt of a laureth-sulfate ether surfactant. Diethylamine is a secondary amine, and secondary amines in cosmetic matrices can react with nitrosating species (residual nitrite in raw materials, oxides of nitrogen in air, some preservatives) to form N-nitrosodiethylamine (NDEA) — classified by IARC as Group 2A (probable human carcinogen). This is the same mechanistic concern that drove regulatory pressure on DEA-neutralised surfactants, and the EU Cosmetics Regulation applies similar restrictions to secondary-amine condensates (Annex III entry on dialkanolamines and related). Additionally, ethoxylated sulfates can carry 1,4-dioxane (IARC 2B) residues unless the raw material is purified by vacuum stripping. Safer sodium laureth sulfate (SLES), ammonium laureth sulfate (ALS), or non-ethoxylated sulfate-free surfactants are drop-in replacements.
Skin benefits
- Cleansing and foam in rinse-off products
Known concerns
- Secondary-amine counter-ion forms NDEA (IARC Group 2A) in presence of nitrosating agents
- EU regulatory disfavour for secondary-amine condensates
- Potential 1,4-dioxane residual
- Safer alternatives universally available
References
EU CosIng database
European Commission cosmetic ingredient registry — regulatory status, restrictions, authorised functions.
Related surfactants
Check your shelf
Find DIETHYLAMINE LAURETH SULFATE in your products.
Scan any cosmetic product with LuxSense to see if it contains DIETHYLAMINE LAURETH SULFATE 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.