Diethanolamine
- What It’s Used In: Cleaning and Laundry Products, Soaps, Surfactants
- Problems Caused: Cancer
Likely one of the few dangerous ingredients on this list that is much harder to explain than necessary, diethanolamine has salts that have fatty acids. These are formulated into various soaps and surfactants, making them perfect for laundry liquid and dishwashing detergent. However, the surfactant nature they have makes them great for cosmetics, shampoo, and conditioners as well. However, today, we know it’s corrosive. The California Environmental Protection Agency lists it as a carcinogen and New Jersey’s Department of Health listed it as one of their hazardous substances.