Cocamide Methyl MEA
AKA “Coconut oil methyl MEA, N-Methyl-N, 2-hydroxyethyl coconut acid amide
Surfactant
Ingredient Facts
Cocamide methyl mea
AKA: Coconut oil methyl MEA, N-Methyl-N, 2-hydroxyethyl coconut acid amide
Surfactant · Cleansing · EWG: 4
Synthetic
Cleanser
Plant Oil
Not Clean
Amides, coco-, N-hydroxyethyl-N-methyl
Form
Liquid
See origin →
Functions
Cleansing
Makes oil and water mix so dirt, makeup, and sunscreen can actually be washed away. The reason your face wash foams.
Foam Boosting
Viscosity Controlling
Surfactant Cleansing
Surfactant Foam Boosting
Moisturizing
Antimicrobial
Strengthens Barrier
Enhances lather
Lifts away dirt and oil
Controls product thickness
Traditional Use
A synthetic derivative of coconut fatty acids developed in the 20th century as a mild surfactant and foam booster for personal care products, particularly shampoos and cleansers.
Skin Types
all-skin-types
Best For
General
Pregnancy & Breastfeeding Safe
Yes
Allergen Warning
⚠️ Tree Nut (Coconut)
EWG
4
CIR
Safe as used
Pregnancy
Yes
CIR Safety Findings
medical-approval
all-shades-safe
Regulatory Status
USApermitted
EUrestricted
JAPANrestricted
CANADArestricted
Verified Jun 2026
Data: CosIng · EWG · CIR