Cocoyl Monoethanolamine: Foam, Cleansing & Formula Function

Overview

Cocoyl monoethanolamine, commonly called Cocamide MEA, is made from coconut fatty acids and monoethanolamine. In rinse-off cleansers it is primarily used to support foam, viscosity and overall surfactant performance.

What the Science Says

• Cosmetic Ingredient Review assessments of fatty acid alkanolamides describe Cocamide MEA and related ingredients as rinse-off surfactant and foam-support ingredients.
• CIR safety assessments emphasize appropriate formulation and control of nitrosamine formation for ethanolamide ingredients.

Key Compounds / Chemistry

• Fatty Acid Amide: Contains coconut-derived fatty-acid chains linked to monoethanolamine.
• Surfactant Helper: Supports foam and viscosity rather than serving as the only cleanser.

Benefits

• Helps support creamy lather.
• Contributes to cleanser viscosity.
• Improves the overall performance of a blended surfactant system.

Why Natural Escapes Body Uses It

We use Cocoyl Monoethanolamine as a supporting part of our sulfate-free cleansing base, where it works alongside milder primary surfactants rather than replacing them.

Products Featuring This Ingredient

• Peppermint, Rosemary & Tea Tree Shampoo
• Lavender & Jojoba Shampoo
• Orange & Argan Shampoo
• Peppermint, Tea Tree & Eucalyptus Body Wash
• Lavender & Jojoba Body Wash
• Orange & Argan Body Wash

Related Guides

• Sulfate-Free Shampoo: Why We Skip SLS & SLES

Safety Notes

• Used in rinse-off products.
• Fatty acid ethanolamides should be formulated to minimize nitrosamine formation, consistent with cosmetic safety guidance.

FAQs

Scientific References

1. Cosmetic Ingredient Review materials on Cocamide MEA and related fatty acid alkanolamides.