What is Dea-Linoleate?
Dea-Linoleate, also known by its chemical name (9Z,12Z)-octadeca-9,12-dienoic acid, compound with 2,2′-iminodiethanol (1:1), is a versatile ingredient commonly found in various cosmetic products. This compound is derived from linoleic acid, a polyunsaturated omega-6 fatty acid, and diethanolamine (DEA), an organic compound. Linoleic acid is typically sourced from plant oils such as safflower, sunflower, and soybean oils, making Dea-Linoleate a naturally derived ingredient.
The use of Dea-Linoleate in cosmetics has a relatively recent history, emerging as a popular ingredient due to its multifunctional properties. Initially, linoleic acid was recognized for its beneficial effects on the skin, including moisturizing and anti-inflammatory properties. Combining it with diethanolamine created a compound that not only retained these benefits but also offered additional functionalities like emulsifying and viscosity controlling, making it a valuable addition to cosmetic formulations.
The production of Dea-Linoleate involves a chemical reaction between linoleic acid and diethanolamine. This process results in a compound that can effectively stabilize emulsions, control the viscosity of cosmetic products, and reduce static in hair care formulations. The synthesis is carefully controlled to ensure the purity and efficacy of the final product, making it suitable for use in a wide range of cosmetic applications.
The Benefits/Uses of Dea-Linoleate
In this section, we will delve into the officially recognized cosmetic benefits and uses of Dea-Linoleate:
Antistatic
One of the primary benefits of Dea-Linoleate is its antistatic property. This means that it helps to reduce static electricity, which can be particularly useful in hair care products. If you’ve ever experienced frizzy hair or flyaways, you know how annoying static can be. Dea-Linoleate helps to neutralize these static charges, making your hair smoother and more manageable.
Emulsifying
Dea-Linoleate also serves as an emulsifying agent. In simple terms, it helps to mix oil and water-based ingredients together, which is crucial for creating stable and homogenous cosmetic formulations. This is particularly important in products like lotions, creams, and makeup, where a consistent texture and appearance are essential for both efficacy and user experience.
Viscosity Controlling
Another significant benefit of Dea-Linoleate is its ability to control viscosity. This means it can adjust the thickness or thinness of cosmetic products. Whether you prefer a thick, luxurious cream or a light, easily spreadable lotion, Dea-Linoleate helps to achieve the desired consistency, enhancing the overall feel and application of the product.
Note: the listed benefits above are exclusively based on the officially recognized and defined functions of the ingredient, as documented by the International Nomenclature of Cosmetic Ingredients (INCI).
Potential Side Effects & Other Considerations
Dea-Linoleate is generally considered safe for use in cosmetic products, but as with any ingredient, it is important to be aware of its potential side effects and other considerations.
- Skin irritation
- Allergic reactions
- Contact dermatitis
Regarding individuals who are pregnant or breastfeeding, data and research on the topical usage of Dea-Linoleate during pregnancy are lacking. Therefore, it is advisable for pregnant or breastfeeding women to consult a healthcare professional for further advice before using products containing this ingredient.
Side effects and adverse reactions from Dea-Linoleate are generally uncommon. However, as with any cosmetic ingredient, it is recommended to conduct a patch test before widespread usage to ensure there are no adverse reactions.
Dea-Linoleate has a comedogenic rating of 2, which means it has a low likelihood of clogging pores. However, individuals who are prone to acne, blemishes, or breakouts should still exercise caution when using products containing this ingredient.