Surfactant
PEG-10 COCAMINE
Safety score · 0–100
Moderate
Derived from EU CosIng regulatory status, PubChem hazard data and published research. How we score.
An ethoxylated coconut-fatty-amine surfactant. Functional but carries the usual PEG-amine cautions on nitrosamine precursors and residual dioxane.
PEG-10 cocamine is the ethoxylated tertiary amine derived from coconut fatty acids (CAS 61791-14-8 family), typically used as a mild cationic/non-ionic surfactant and oil solubiliser in hair and skin products. As an ethoxylate, it carries the class-level concerns around residual ethylene oxide and 1,4-dioxane (both IARC classified; 1,4-dioxane is Group 2B). As a tertiary amine it can form N-nitrosamines if combined with nitrosating agents (certain preservatives, 2-bromo-2-nitropropane-1,3-diol). CIR has assessed some PEG-cocamines with use-condition recommendations; PEG-10 specifically has a thinner dossier.
Skin benefits
- Mild cationic surfactant and emulsifier
- Antistatic in hair-care
- Helps solubilise oils
Known concerns
- Ethoxylated tertiary amine — possible nitrosamine formation with nitrosating agents
- Residual 1,4-dioxane and ethylene oxide monitoring required
- PEG-amines skew more irritating than PEG-alcohols
- Limited CIR-specific assessment for PEG-10 variant
References
EU CosIng database
European Commission cosmetic ingredient registry: regulatory status, restrictions, authorised functions.
Related surfactants
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This profile is for educational purposes and does not constitute medical advice. Regulatory status and scientific understanding evolve, so always read the physical product label and consult a healthcare professional for personal concerns.