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Preservative

MEA-UNDECYLENATE

CAS 56532-40-2
58

Safety score · 0–100

Moderate

Derived from EU CosIng regulatory status, PubChem hazard data and published research. How we score.

An MEA-salt of plant-derived undecylenic acid with mild antifungal action. The ethanolamine portion brings nitrosamine and irritation flags, so this sits at the upper end of orange caution.

Function

PRESERVATIVESURFACTANT - CLEANSING

Skin benefits

  • Mild antifungal action
  • Helpful in foot and scalp products
  • Plant-derived undecylenic acid backbone
  • Some use as preservative booster

Known concerns

  • Monoethanolamine (MEA) is a secondary amine — nitrosamine risk with nitrosating preservatives
  • Possible skin irritation at higher use
  • EU regulatory scrutiny for ethanolamines
  • Smaller modern dataset versus established preservatives

References

EU

EU CosIng database

European Commission cosmetic ingredient registry: regulatory status, restrictions, authorised functions.

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This profile is for educational purposes and does not constitute medical advice. Regulatory status and scientific understanding evolve, so always read the physical product label and consult a healthcare professional for personal concerns.