Triethanolamine (TEA)

A widely used ingredient in cosmetics and personal-care products, mainly as a pH adjuster, emulsifier aid, and surfactant neutralizer.

INCI name: Triethanolamine

Form: Clear, colorless to pale-yellow viscous liquid

pH: 10–11 (alkaline)

Main functions in cosmetics 🧴

• pH adjuster
• Raises pH of formulations
• Helps set final pH for skin compatibility
• Surfactant neutralizer
• Neutralizes carbomers, acrylic polymers
• Thickens gels and cleansers
• Foam enhancer
• Improves foam quality in shampoos & cleansers.

Common cosmetic products

• Face & body creams
• Shampoos & conditioners
• Facial cleansers & body washes
• Shaving creams
• Hair styling gels

Typical usage levels

• pH adjustment: 0.1–0.5%
• Carbomer neutralization: 0.2–1%

How to use (formulation tips)

• Add in the cool-down phase
• Dilute before adding for precise pH control
• Adjust slowly while checking pH (target skin pH: ~5.0–6.0)

Safety & regulatory status ⚠️

✔ Approved for cosmetic use worldwide
✔ Safe at regulated low concentrations

Important restrictions:

❌ Must NOT be used with nitrosating agents (risk of nitrosamine formation)
❌ Avoid high concentrations in leave-on products