Triethanolamine
Organic amine used as a pH adjuster and emulsifier. Neutralises acidic polymers (carbomers) allowing them to form gels. Historically ubiquitous, but due to possible nitrosamine formation on contact with nitrites, some manufacturers moved to alternatives – aminomethyl propanol, trometamol. Safe when formulated correctly.
Supporting ingredient
It gives a product its texture, stability or shelf life. It has no claimed effect on the skin, so an efficacy tier does not apply. What is known about its safety is below
Tolerability and safety
- Irritation potential
- Low
- Allergen risk
- Low
- Pregnancy
- Safe
- Suitable for
- Normal, Dry, Combination, Oily
- Use with caution
- Sensitive
About this ingredient
Triethanolamine (TEA) is an organic amine used as a pH adjuster and emulsifier. Until the 2000s it was in almost every cream and shampoo. Many brands have moved to alternatives because of nitrosamine concerns. Mechanism. A weak base that neutralises acidic polymers (carbomers, acrylates), letting them form gels. Also emulsifies the oil phase into the water phase thanks to its amphiphilic structure. Where applied. Creams and lotions (0.5-3%), shower gels, shampoos, shaving products. In Spain it has historically appeared in La Roche-Posay, Bioderma and Nivea lines and is gradually being replaced by aminomethyl propanol (AMP) and tromethamine (TRIS). Nitrosamine controversy. On contact with nitrites (as ingredients or impurities) triethanolamine can form N-nitrosodiethanolamine (NDELA), an IARC 2B carcinogen. The EU Cosmetic Regulation bans using TEA in formulations with nitrite-containing ingredients. With compliant formulation the risk is minimal. Safety. CIR confirmed safety in 2013 up to 5% in leave-on and 10% in rinse-off, provided nitrites are excluded. SCCS EU also confirmed safety with concentration limits. Pregnancy and lactation – safe. Topical systemic absorption is minimal, no fetal risk described. Alternatives. Aminomethyl propanol (AMP), tromethamine (TRIS), sodium hydroxide, potassium citrate – no nitrosamine risk. Many clean-beauty brands specifically claim 'TEA-free'.
Frequently asked questions
Is Triethanolamine safe during pregnancy?
Triethanolamine is considered safe during pregnancy at typical cosmetic concentrations. Systemic absorption through the skin is minimal.
What skin types is Triethanolamine for?
Triethanolamine suits: normal, dry, combination, oily. Use with caution in: sensitive.
What is Triethanolamine and what does it do in cosmetics?
Organic amine used as a pH adjuster and emulsifier.
What's the INCI name for Triethanolamine?
The INCI name is Triethanolamine. It may also appear as: TEA.
See Triethanolamine in a product composition right on the store page
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Similar role in the formula
Other functional ingredients
Triethoxycaprylylsilane, Triethyl Citrate, Triethylhexanoin, Trihydroxystearin, Ceteareth-25, Hexamethylindanopyran, PEG-22/Dodecyl Glycol Copolymer, Rhus Verniciflua Peel Cera
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