DEA-Cetyl Sulfate
AKA “Diethanolamine hexadecyl sulfate, Diethanolamine cetyl sulfate, diethanolammonium cetyl sulfate, EINECS 257-260-5, Hexadecyl sulfate (1:1), diethanolamine salt, RefChem:585238, DEA-CETYL SULFATE [INCI]”
Synthetic
vote to see if the hive agrees
Ingredient Facts
Dea-cetyl sulfate
AKA: Diethanolamine hexadecyl sulfate, Diethanolamine cetyl sulfate, Diethanolammonium cetyl sulfate, EINECS 257-260-5, Hexadecyl sulfate (1:1), Diethanolamine salt, RefChem:585238, DEA-CETYL SULFATE [INCI]
Synthetic · Surfactant - Cleansing | Surfactant - Emulsifying · EWG: 4
Plant-Derived
Cleanser
Emulsifier
Synthetic
Clean
A gentle cleanser and emulsifier that removes dirt and oil while helping blend water and oil-based ingredients into a smooth, stable formula.
Formula
C20H45NO6S
Mol. Weight
427.60
CAS #
51541-51-6
Form
Powder
Plant-Derived
Synthetic. Derived from diethanolamine and cetyl sulfate, both synthetic organic compounds from petroleum-based feedstocks. Synthesized through sulfation of cetyl alcohol followed by neutralization with diethanolamine.
Function
Surfactant - Cleansing | Surfactant - Emulsifying
Benefits
Cleansing Surfactant
Emulsifier
Removes Impurities
Mixes Oil & Water
Traditional Use
A synthetic anionic surfactant created in the 20th century for cosmetic formulations. Designed to replace natural saponified oils while providing superior stability and cleansing performance.
Skin Types
all-skin-types
Best For
Target
General
Melanin-Rich Skin
Suitable
Pregnancy Safe
Caution
Restricted By
EWG Score4
CIR Safety Findings
medical-approval, all-shades-safe, Not a Sensitizer
Regulatory Agencies
Verified Feb 2026
Data: PubChem · CosIng · EWG · CIR