The diethanolamide is applied in an amount effective to increase the biocidal activity of the biocide.

In preferred embodiments the hydrocarbon gas comprises butane or propane; the carrier comprises water; and the emulsifier comprises a carbomer, such as a cross-linked polyacrylic polymer, and/or coconut diethanolamide.

In the method, at least one biocide and at least one diethanolamide are applied to a substrate or aqueous system subject to the growth of microorganisms.

Biocidal compositions are described where the biocide and the diethanolamide are present in a combined amount effective to control the growth of at least one microorganism.

In a preferred embodiment, the surfactant is a combination of Sodium Lauryl Ether Sulphate and Coconut Diethanolamide.

Also disclosed is a method of reducing the cloud point temperature in a normally clear aqueous personal cleansing composition which is essentially free of amides of diethanolamine.

Matrix-type transdermal patches for administering steroids comprising a matrix of one or more steroid hormones, a pressure sensitive adhesive and a diethanolamide of a C12-C18 fatty acid as a permeation enhancer.

Preferably the composition includes one part polyoxyethylene -nonylphenol, two parts coconut diethanolamide, two parts heavy naphtha and one part oleic acid, by volume.

The solution provides for the use of such active ingredients as sodium lauryl sulfate, cocamidopropyl betaine, ethoxylated nonylphenol, lauric acid diethanolamide, diethanolamine and propylene glycol.

There is one substance called coconut diethanolamide, extracted from coconut oil, which is used as an agent in hand-washing liquids.