COCAMIDE AND ITS DANGERS

Santhosh M Mathews, Jiju V, Irene Thomas*, Ritty Anu Joseph, Neenumol Thomas

ABSTRACT

Cocamide is a mixture of amides of the fatty acids obtained from coconut oil. As coconut oil contains about 50% of lauric acid, in formulas only the 12-carbon chains tend to be considered. Therefore the formula of cocamide can be written as CH3(CH2)10CONH2, though the number of carbon atoms in the chains varies (it is always even).Cocamide is the structural basis of many surfactants. Common are ethanolamines (cocamide MEA, cocamide DEA), or betaine compounds (cocamidopropyl betaine).These are commonly found in most personal care products that foam, including bubble baths, body washes, shampoos, soaps and facial cleansers Cocamide DEA is originally derived from natural coconut oil, but is extensively refined and processed with harsh, powerful chemicals that leave the final product thoroughly unnatural. Even though it is manufactured regularly in cosmetics, Cocamide DEA can have negative and lasting effects on your skin, hair, and overall health. DEA and MEA are usually listed on the ingredient label in conjunction with the compound being neutralized. Thus look for names like Cocamide DEA or MEA, Lauramide DEA, etc. These are hormone disrupting chemicals and are known to form cancer causing nitrates and nitrosamines.There are also other consequences of Cocamide DEA which can affect the body badly, thus it should be avoided so as to stay as happy and healthy as possible.

Keywords: Cocamide derivatives-synonyms-properties-uses-cocamide products-side effects-precautions and prevention.