What Is Diethylaminoethyl Peg-5 Laurate?
Diethylaminoethyl Peg-5 Laurate is a synthetic ingredient created by linking coconut based fatty acids with small units of ethylene oxide and a diethylaminoethyl group. The coconut source gives the molecule its gentle, skin friendly backbone while the added chemical groups let it dissolve in both water and oil. First explored in the 1970s as chemists searched for milder cleansers, it soon found a place in personal care labs thanks to its ability to stabilize foam and mix hard to blend ingredients.
Production starts with coconut fatty acids that are reacted with ethylene oxide about five times per molecule. This step, called ethoxylation, adds water loving sections. A second reaction attaches the diethylaminoethyl part, which improves spreadability and boosts antistatic action. The finished liquid or soft paste is then purified and graded for cosmetic use.
You will spot Diethylaminoethyl Peg-5 Laurate in face and body washes, micellar waters, shampoos, light lotions, spray conditioners, sheet masks, self tanning mists and even some color cosmetics where stable foam or smooth texture is needed.
Diethylaminoethyl Peg-5 Laurate’s Cosmetic Benefits/Uses
Formulators choose this multi tasking ingredient because it tackles several jobs at once, letting them keep formulas simple yet effective.
- Antistatic – helps keep hair strands from clinging to each other or to clothing so styles look smoother and more controlled
- Cleansing – lifts away dirt oil and makeup without stripping the skin or hair leaving a fresh feel
- Foaming – boosts and stabilizes foam for a rich lather that consumers associate with thorough cleaning
- Emulsifying – keeps water and oil mixed so lotions stay silky and do not separate on the shelf
Who Can Use Diethylaminoethyl Peg-5 Laurate
Thanks to its gentle coconut derived backbone and balanced water-oil solubility Diethylaminoethyl Peg-5 Laurate suits most skin types including normal, combination and oily. Dry or sensitive skin can usually tolerate it as well because it cleanses without a harsh stripping effect, though highly reactive skin should still watch for any personal triggers.
The molecule is synthesized from plant fats and petroleum-based feedstocks, not animal sources. It involves no animal byproducts or animal testing mandates under most global regulations so it is generally considered suitable for vegans and vegetarians.
Pregnant or breastfeeding individuals have no specific contraindications with this ingredient since it stays on the outer skin surface and shows minimal absorption, yet this is not medical advice. Anyone expecting or nursing should confirm product choices with a healthcare professional to be extra safe.
Diethylaminoethyl Peg-5 Laurate does not increase photosensitivity so it will not make skin more prone to sunburn. It also carries no known interactions with common actives such as vitamin C or retinoids, making it easy to slot into almost any routine.
Potential Side Effects/Adverse Reactions
Side effects from topical use of Diethylaminoethyl Peg-5 Laurate differ from person to person. The points below list potential reactions but they are uncommon when the ingredient appears at normal cosmetic levels and is formulated correctly.
- Mild skin irritation slight redness or stinging on very sensitive skin especially if the formula has a high surfactant load
- Eye irritation temporary tearing or burning if the product accidentally gets into the eyes
- Allergic contact dermatitis rare immune response causing itching hives or swelling
- Increased dryness over-cleansing can strip natural oils leading to tight or flaky skin
- Hair buildup heavy leave-on use may leave a film that dulls shine in fine or low porosity hair
If any of these reactions occur discontinue use and seek advice from a medical professional or pharmacist.
Comedogenic Rating
Rating: 1 out of 5
Diethylaminoethyl Peg-5 Laurate is a water-soluble surfactant that easily rinses away and does not linger inside pores so it has very low potential to clog them. Its coconut-based fatty acid part is highly modified with PEG groups which further lower the chance of build-up. For these reasons it earns a rating of 1, meaning it is unlikely to trigger blackheads or whiteheads in most users.
Because of this low rating the ingredient is generally fine for people who are prone to acne or frequent breakouts.
One extra point worth noting is that most formulas using this ingredient are wash-off cleansers. Quick contact time makes clogged pores even less likely compared with leave-on products.
Summary
Diethylaminoethyl Peg-5 Laurate acts as an antistatic agent, mild cleanser, foam booster and emulsifier. Its coconut fatty acid base grabs oil and dirt while the PEG segments keep it soluble in water letting grime rinse off cleanly. The diethylaminoethyl group reduces static on hair and helps oils and water stay blended so lotions remain smooth.
It is not as famous as heavy-hitters like sodium lauryl sulfate or polysorbate 20 yet formulators appreciate it in gentle cleansers and light conditioners where stable foam and low irritation are key.
Current safety data show low toxicity and minimal irritation for most skin types when used at typical cosmetic levels. Still everyone’s skin is different so it is wise to patch test any new product containing this ingredient before full use.