An anionic sulfate surfactant. It cleanses with rich foam; at high levels it dries skin. Moderate tolerance.
Topical application
BLimited evidence. One RCT or several controlled studies with limitations.
A cleansing sulfate surfactant. Safe.
TEA-Lauryl Sulfate is an anionic sulfate surfactant neutralized with triethanolamine. In cleansers and shampoos it builds dense foam and clears oil and product residue effectively. This is a functional cleansing ingredient, not a skincare active. It does not hydrate or improve wrinkles or tone; its purpose is to wash skin and hair. For topical use it has no systemic relevance, so it can be used during pregnancy and breastfeeding. Tolerance is moderate. Irritation and allergy potential are low, but harshness is moderate and at high levels it can dry the skin. Those with dry or reactive skin do better choosing formulas where it is not the dominant surfactant. This is a secondary or tertiary amine. With nitrosating preservatives (bronopol and similar) or their impurities it can form carcinogenic nitrosamines, so that pairing in a formula is undesirable. On its own, without a nitrosating agent, the nitrosamine concern does not apply.
Irritation potential
LowAllergen risk
LowPregnancy
SafeSuitable for
The Evigrade extension adds an evidence panel to iHerb, Sephora, Druni and 12 more stores. This ingredient and every other one in the product show evidence-tier, allergen risk and pregnancy/lactation flags at a glance.
TEA-Lauryl Sulfate is considered safe during pregnancy at typical cosmetic concentrations. Systemic absorption through the skin is minimal.
TEA-Lauryl Sulfate suits: normal, dry, combination, oily, sensitive.
An anionic sulfate surfactant.
The INCI name is TEA-Lauryl Sulfate. It may also appear as: ТЕА-лаурил сульфат.
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