pH regulator and buffer. Maintains stable formula pH – especially with carbomers and acids – without skin activity.
Topical application
CWeak evidence. In vitro data, open-label studies, or expert consensus.
Functional buffer. Safe.
Tromethamine (TRIS, tromethamol) is an amino alcohol that serves as a pH buffer and regulator. It is the alternative to triethanolamine (TEA) following tighter nitrosamine regulation in the 2010s. In medicine it is used as an acidosis corrector. Mechanism. A weak base – neutralises acidic polymers (carbomers, acrylates) into a stable gel. Also buffers formula pH in the 7-9 range, important for preservative and active stability. Where applied. Face washes, carbomer-based creams, sunscreens with octocrylene and avobenzone, pharmaceutical emulsions. In Spain – in La Roche-Posay Anthelios, Bioderma Photoderm, Caudalie Vinosun lines, gradually replacing TEA in formulations. Evidence base. Functional ingredient with no skin RCTs. CIR confirmed safety in 2008. Safety. Non-sensitising, non-comedogenic. Unlike TEA, it does not form nitrosamines on contact with nitrites, which makes tromethamine the preferred choice in current formulations. Pregnancy and lactation – safe. Topical systemic absorption is minimal.
Irritation potential
LowAllergen risk
LowPregnancy
SafeSuitable for
The Evigrade extension adds an evidence panel to Wildberries, Goldapple, Letu, iHerb, Sephora 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.
Tromethamine is considered safe during pregnancy at typical cosmetic concentrations. Systemic absorption through the skin is minimal.
Tromethamine suits: normal, dry, oily, combination, sensitive.
pH regulator and buffer.
The INCI name is Tromethamine. It may also appear as: TRIS, Трометамин.
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