TEA-Sulfate

Evidence by route

About this ingredient

TEA-Sulfate is the triethanolamine salt of sulphuric acid, used as a buffering salt and co-surfactant. On the label it reads TEA-Sulfate. In cleansers it helps hold the formula pH and modulate the action of surfactants. On efficacy, place it this way: it is a functional component, not a care active. When you see it on a label, its job is pH adjustment and stability, not a visible effect on skin. In that role it does its work without pretension. For pregnancy and breastfeeding there is no cause for alarm. It is used in small cosmetic proportions, rinses off, and its systemic impact is negligible, so it can be used. As a technical note, triethanolamine compounds should be formulated to avoid combinations with nitrosating agents, which the manufacturer controls. Tolerance at the usual doses is good. Irritation and allergy are low. Still, very reactive skin should judge the cleanser as a whole rather than this ingredient in isolation. 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.

Tolerability and safety

Skin types

Frequently asked questions