murphyCocamide MEA
molecular structure · PubChem
AKA: Coconut acid monoethanolamide, Coconut oil MEA, N-Bis(2-hydroxyethyl)coconut oil amide
Synthetic
Cleanser
Emulsifier
Not Clean
OriginDerived from coconut or palm kernel oils, which are rich in fatty acids.
Produced through ethanolamine condensation with coconut fatty acid methyl esters or similar lipid sources.
Amides, coco, N-(hydroxyethyl)
CAS #
68140-00-1
Form
Liquid
Skin Types
●all-skin-types
Best For
General
Pregnancy & Breastfeeding Safe
Yes
Allergen Warning
⚠️ Tree Nut (Coconut)
Functions
Emulsion Stabilising
Forces oil and water to stay mixed instead of separating into layers. The unsung hero holding your lotion together.
Cleansing
Makes oil and water mix so dirt, makeup, and sunscreen can actually be washed away. The reason your face wash foams.
Emulsifying
Forces oil and water to stay mixed instead of separating into layers. The unsung hero holding your lotion together.
Foam Boosting
Viscosity Controlling
Stabilizes Emulsion
Cleansing Surfactant
Emulsifier
Boosts Lather
Locks In Moisture
Wound Healing
Fights Bacteria
The paper trail
🔬Peer-reviewed1 paper →
⚖️Regulatory1 listing →
🛡️Safety-assessed3 reviews →
Counts, not a verdict. A listing isn't a study. The trail, you decide.
EWG
4
CIR
Safe as used
Pregnancy
Yes
Restricted By
CIR Safety Findings
Not a Sensitizer
1 study / 1 not sensitizing (CIR 605)
Mixed Skin Irritation Results
4 studies / 1 mixed / 3 not irritating / reactions slight (CIR 605)
Concentration Guide
Leave-on0.5–5%
Rinse-off0.2–18%
0%50%100%
CIR reported use · report published 2015
Regulatory Agencies
Verified Jun 2026
Data: CosIng · EWG · CIR