Ethanolamine (2-aminoethanol, monoethanolamine, ETA, or MEA) is an organic chemical compound with the formula HOCH2CH2NH2 (C2H7NO). The molecule is bifunctional, containing both a primary amine and a primary alcohol. Ethanolamine is a colorless, viscous liquid with an odor reminiscent of ammonia.Triethanolamine (TEA), Diethanolamine (DEA) and Ethanolamine are clear, colorless, thick liquids with ammonia-like odors. Ethanolamine may be used in some permanent waves and hair dyes and colors. Diethanolamine itself is rarely used in cosmetics, but derivatives of DEA may be used in shampoos and cleansing products. Ethanolamines. Ethanolamines are a family of chemicals that work as surfactants and emulsifying ingredients in personal care products and cleaning products. Ethanolamines are made through a chemical reaction of ethylene oxide with ammonia.Ethanolamine is also a blood vessel. It can treat bleeding from the esophagus.