What Is Stearamide Mea?

Learn about the anti-static, surfactant foam-boosting, and viscosity-controlling characteristics of Stearamide Mea and its usage in personal care products.

What Is Stearamide Mea? Brandon Jones / IngredientReviewer

Last Updated: October 2, 2024

Written by Brandon Jones

What Is Stearamide Mea?

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N-(2-Hydroxyethyl)octadecanamide, also known as stearoylethanolamide, is a substance that can be used in cosmetics. It has different forms such as dry powder, liquid, pellets or large crystals, and solid. It has antistatic properties which means it helps reduce static electricity in products like hair care items. It is also a surfactant which helps boost foam and control viscosity in cosmetic products. N-(2-Hydroxyethyl)octadecanamide belongs to a group of substances called N-acylethanolamines (NAEs) which are released by the body in response to various stimuli. One type of NAE called N-oleoylethanolamine can block certain effects on calcium concentration inside cells caused by substances like tnf- and arachidonic acid.

What is the purpose of Stearamide Mea in personal care products? It is used for its anti-static, surfactant foam-boosting, and viscosity-controlling characteristics. Stearamide Mea prevents static electricity buildup, increases and stabilizes foaming, and adjusts the thickness of a product.

Names and identifiers that we found for this substance include: Stearamide Mea and N-(2-Hydroxyethyl)octadecanamide.

What Are Anti-Static Ingredients?

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Stearamide Mea has anti-static characteristics.

Anti-static ingredients are used in cosmetic products to help prevent static electricity from building up on your skin or hair. Static electricity can cause your hair to stick to your face, your makeup to cling to your skin unflatteringly, or even cause an uncomfortable shock.

These ingredients create a barrier on the surface of your skin or hair, which helps neutralize any electrical charge that might be present. This means that static electricity is less likely to build up, so your hair and makeup stay in place, and you don't have to worry about uncomfortable shocks.

What Are Surfactant Foam-Boosting Ingredients?

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Stearamide Mea has surfactant foam-boosting characteristics.

Surfactant foam-boosting ingredients improve the foaminess of cleansers, shampoos, and other personal care products. These ingredients work by increasing the capacity of the product to produce foam and stabilizing the foam generated during use. This results in a more luxurious and satisfying lather, making the product feel more effective and enjoyable.

Foam-boosting ingredients typically have a surface-active nature, meaning they can interact with water- and oil-based molecules. When added to a product, these ingredients help reduce the liquid's surface tension, allowing air to be trapped and stabilized within the product, creating a foam. In addition, they can help maintain the foam's stability by preventing the bubbles from bursting or collapsing, which would result in a less effective cleaning experience.

What Are Viscosity-Controlling Ingredients?

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Stearamide Mea has viscosity-controlling characteristics.

Viscosity-controlling ingredients increase or decrease the thickness of a product. These ingredients are essential in creating the desired texture and consistency for cosmetic products such as lotions, creams, and serums.

Increasing the viscosity of a cosmetic product can provide a thicker and more substantial texture, making it easier to apply and providing better coverage. On the other hand, decreasing the viscosity can create a lighter, more fluid consistency, allowing for quicker absorption into the skin.

Safety

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Remember, always read and follow the instructions provided on product labels carefully. If you have any questions or concerns about using a product containing various ingredients, consult with your doctor or healthcare provider before use.