Triethanolamine
INCI · Triethanolamine · also TEA
Overview
An alkaline ingredient used to raise pH and to neutralise carbomer, the step that turns a cloudy suspension into a clear gel. It also forms soap-like emulsifiers in situ when combined with a fatty acid such as stearic acid.
Who it's for
Gels, lotions and classic cream bases, especially older-style formulas built on a stearic-acid-and-TEA emulsion.
Cautions
Amines of this type are discussed in relation to nitrosamine formation if a formula also contains a nitrosating agent, which is why the combination is restricted rather than the ingredient itself. Formulators avoid the pairing; nothing on a label tells a reader whether that was done, so this is context rather than a verdict.
- Effective from
- —
- Max safe
- —
What does Triethanolamine do in skincare?
An alkaline ingredient used to raise pH and to neutralise carbomer, the step that turns a cloudy suspension into a clear gel. It also forms soap-like emulsifiers in situ when combined with a fatty acid such as stearic acid.
Is Triethanolamine considered safe for skin?
Amines of this type are discussed in relation to nitrosamine formation if a formula also contains a nitrosating agent, which is why the combination is restricted rather than the ingredient itself. Formulators avoid the pairing; nothing on a label tells a reader whether that was done, so this is context rather than a verdict.