Abstract
Dimethyl Stearamine is a tertiary aliphatic amine that is used as an antistatic agent in cosmetics at concentrations up to 5%. Bacterial studies suggest antibacterial action at concentrations as low as 3.6 moles per 106. Mutagenicity testing was negative, even though the ingredient can act as a biocide. Additional safety test data are needed, including concentration of use, impurities, inhalation toxicity (or information on particle size), ocular irritation, dermal irritation and sensitization, and a 28-day dermal toxicity study (possibly followed by absorption, distribution, and metabolism studies). Additionally, if significantly absorbed, reproduction and developmental toxicity (including teratogenicity) data and two genotoxicity assays, one using a mammalian system, are needed. If the mutagenesis data are positive, then a dermal carcinogenesis study may be needed. In the absence of this further information, the available data are insufficient to support the safety of Dimethyl Stearamine in cosmetics.