pH Adjuster
DIETHYLAMINE
Safety score · 0–100
Caution
Derived from EU CosIng regulatory status, PubChem hazard data and published research. How we score.
About
Diethylamine — a small secondary amine. Nitrosation forms NDEA, an IARC Group 2A carcinogen; essentially obsolete in modern cosmetic pH adjustment.
Diethylamine (CAS 109-89-7) is a simple secondary amine. Secondary amines react with nitrosating agents (common nitrite impurities in formulation raw materials) to form N-nitrosodiethylamine (NDEA), an IARC Group 2A probable human carcinogen. EU Cosmetics Regulation Annex III entry 60 restricts secondary dialkyl- and alkanolamines to 0.5% with nitrosamine limits and prohibits use with nitrosating systems. It is corrosive and acutely toxic with GHS H302 (harmful if swallowed), H311 (toxic in contact with skin), H314 (skin corrosive), H332 (harmful if inhaled). Its pH-adjusting use has been displaced by safer alternatives.
Function
Skin benefits
- pH-adjusting base
- Building block for other surfactants
Known concerns
- Secondary amine — forms carcinogenic N-nitrosodiethylamine (NDEA) with nitrite
- EU Annex III restricted: secondary alkyl- and alkanolamines subject to nitrosamine limits
- IARC Group 2A carcinogen (NDEA) via nitrosation
- Corrosive, acutely toxic GHS H302/H311/H314/H332
References
EU CosIng database
European Commission cosmetic ingredient registry — regulatory status, restrictions, authorised functions.
Related ph adjusters
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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.