CDE (Cocamide Diethanolamine)

Benefits:

• Foaming Agent: Improves lather and foam stability in cleansing products.
• Thickening Agent: Enhances the viscosity of liquid formulations.
• Emulsifier: Helps blend oil and water-based ingredients for a smooth consistency.
• Moisturizing Properties: Prevents excessive dryness by maintaining hydration.
• Improves Cleansing Efficiency: Enhances the ability to remove dirt and oils effectively.

How to Use:

• Shampoos & Body Washes: Typically used at concentrations of 1-5% to improve foaming and thickness.
• Liquid Soaps & Detergents: Added to formulations to boost lathering properties and enhance texture.
• Conditioners & Creams: Can be used in small amounts to help emulsify and stabilize the product.
  

  How to Use Cocamide Diethanolamine (CDE) in Formulations

  CDE is commonly used as a foam booster, thickener, and emulsifier in liquid cleansing products. Here’s how to properly incorporate it into formulations:

  1. Recommended Usage Levels

  • Shampoos & Body Washes: 1-5%
  • Liquid Soaps & Hand Washes: 2-6%
  • Facial Cleansers: 0.5-3%
  • Dishwashing Liquids & Household Cleaners: 3-10%

  2. Phase of Addition

  • CDE is heat-sensitive, so it should be added during the cool-down phase (below 50°C) to prevent degradation.
  • It can also be pre-dissolved in warm water (around 40-50°C) before being added to the formulation for better solubility.

  3. Mixing Process

  1. Prepare the Water Phase: Heat water to 50-60°C if required.
  2. Add Primary Surfactants: Include anionic surfactants (e.g., SLES or SLS) and mix until uniform.
  3. Incorporate CDE: Slowly add CDE while stirring continuously to ensure proper blending.
  4. Adjust pH (If Needed): Use citric acid or sodium hydroxide to reach a skin-friendly pH (5.5-7.0).
  5. Add Preservatives & Fragrances: After cooling to below 40°C, add essential oils, preservatives, or other heat-sensitive ingredients.
  6. Final Adjustments: Check viscosity and clarity; use salt or additional thickeners if needed.

  4. Compatibility Considerations

  • Works well with SLES (Sodium Lauryl Ether Sulfate), CAPB (Cocamidopropyl Betaine), and other mild surfactants.
  • May reduce transparency in some formulations, so adjust accordingly if clarity is a priority.
  • Avoid using in formulations with high nitrosamine risks, such as those containing nitrates.

Safety:

While CDE is generally considered safe for use in cosmetics and cleaning products, prolonged or excessive exposure may cause skin irritation, especially for sensitive individuals. There are concerns regarding the presence of nitrosamines, which can form when CDE interacts with certain compounds. To minimize risks, it is recommended to use formulations that comply with safety regulations and avoid prolonged skin contact.