What Is Soyamide Dea?
Soyamide DEA, also known as Amides, soya, N,N-bis(hydroxyethyl), is a versatile ingredient derived from soybean oil. In the world of cosmetics, it is prized for its multifunctional properties, which include emulsion stabilizing, cleansing, emulsifying, foam boosting, and viscosity controlling. This ingredient is often found in a variety of personal care products such as shampoos, conditioners, body washes, and facial cleansers.
The history of Soyamide DEA in cosmetics dates back to the mid-20th century when the demand for more effective and stable formulations began to rise. Researchers discovered that by modifying soybean oil, they could create an ingredient that not only improved the texture and stability of cosmetic products but also enhanced their cleansing and foaming capabilities. This led to the widespread adoption of Soyamide DEA in the beauty industry.
The production of Soyamide DEA involves a chemical reaction between soybean oil and diethanolamine (DEA). This process, known as amidation, results in the formation of a compound that combines the beneficial properties of both its parent ingredients. The soybean oil provides natural emollient and conditioning properties, while the DEA contributes to the ingredient’s ability to stabilize emulsions and boost foam. The end product is a highly effective and versatile ingredient that enhances the performance of a wide range of cosmetic formulations.
The Benefits/Uses of Soyamide Dea
In this section, we will delve into the officially recognized cosmetic benefits and uses of Soyamide Dea:
Emulsion Stabilising
Soyamide Dea helps to keep the mixture of oil and water in a product from separating. This is crucial for products like lotions and creams, ensuring they remain smooth and consistent throughout their shelf life. Without this stabilizing effect, you might find your favorite moisturizer turning into a separated mess, with oil floating on top and water sinking to the bottom.
Cleansing
One of the primary roles of Soyamide Dea is to help cleanse the skin. It works by breaking down oils and dirt, making it easier to wash them away. This makes it a common ingredient in facial cleansers, body washes, and shampoos, ensuring that your skin and hair are left clean and refreshed.
Emulsifying
Similar to its emulsion stabilizing function, Soyamide Dea also acts as an emulsifier. This means it helps blend ingredients that typically don’t mix well, like oil and water. This is essential for creating a uniform texture in products such as creams, lotions, and serums, making them more pleasant to apply and more effective in delivering their active ingredients.
Foam Boosting
If you love a good lather in your shampoos and body washes, you can thank ingredients like Soyamide Dea. It boosts the foaming action of these products, giving you that rich, luxurious lather that makes cleansing feel more effective and enjoyable. This is particularly beneficial in products where a good foam can help distribute the product more evenly over the skin or hair.
Viscosity Controlling
Soyamide Dea helps control the thickness of cosmetic products. This is important for ensuring that products have the right consistency – not too runny and not too thick. Whether it’s a creamy lotion or a gel-like serum, this ingredient helps achieve the perfect texture, making the product easier to apply and more effective in its use.
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
Soyamide DEA is generally considered safe for use in cosmetic products. However, as with any ingredient, there are potential side effects and considerations to be aware of:
- Skin irritation: Some individuals may experience mild to moderate skin irritation, especially if they have sensitive skin.
- Allergic reactions: Although rare, allergic reactions such as redness, itching, or swelling can occur.
- Contact dermatitis: Prolonged or repeated exposure may lead to contact dermatitis in susceptible individuals.
Regarding individuals who are pregnant or breastfeeding, data and research on the topical usage of Soyamide DEA during pregnancy and breastfeeding are lacking. It is advisable for these individuals to consult a healthcare professional for further advice.
Adverse reactions to Soyamide DEA are generally uncommon, but it is always recommended to perform a patch test before widespread usage to ensure there are no adverse reactions.
In terms of comedogenicity, Soyamide DEA has a rating of 2 on a scale of 0 (totally non-comedogenic) to 5 (highly comedogenic). This means it has a low to moderate potential to clog pores. Individuals who are prone to acne, blemishes, or breakouts should be cautious when using products containing this ingredient.