The FDA states that “there is no reason for consumers to be alarmed” about cancer based on the current use of DEA substances in cosmetics. DEA and derivatives of DEA, such as cocamide DEA, function as emulsifiers or foaming agents in cosmetics. These compounds have also been reviewed for safety by the Cosmetic Ingredient Review (CIR), an independent expert scientific panel established by the Personal Care Products Council, and by other scientific agencies.
In 1998, the U.S. National Toxicology Program (NTP) completed a study that found an association between the topical application of DEA and certain DEA-related ingredients and cancer in laboratory animals. To put this study into perspective, FDA stated that the NTP study did not establish a link between DEA and the risk of cancer in humans.