Triethanolamine

Functions
Emulsifier
Solubilizer
Surfactant
Penetration enhancer
Buffering
Fragrance
Detergent
CAS Number(s)
102-71-6
EINECS number(s)
203-049-8
FDA UNII
9O3K93S3TK

Triethanolamine (may be marked as TEA) is an organic amine with three hydroxy groups; thus, it is also a triol. It is a light, almost colorless, practically odorless liquid, a neutralizing agent for cosmetic ingredients that is miscible with water and alcohols.

TEA is produced by the ammonolysis of ethylene oxide. It's a multifunctional ingredient in skin care formulations that acts as an oil-in-water emulsifier, solubilizer, and surfactant. In addition, TEA is a weak organic alkali base that adjusts the pH of acidic formulas.

In addition, Triethanolamine is a penetration enhancer that helps other ingredients to pass the skin barrier. Thanks to hygroscopic properties, it captures water molecules; thus, it is helpful in moisturizing preparations and shampoos. TEA is also a good stabilizer for emulsions, other surfactants, preservatives, and fragrances, thanks to low volatility at room temperature.

Triethanolamine is commonly used in lotions and creams to convert Stearic acid to TEA-stearate or to neutralize Carbomer to convert it to a gel or to thicken it.

Ingredients

TEA
Synonyms
2,2',2''-Nitrilotriethanol
Trolamine

Related ingredients

Acacia Senegal Gum
Acacia Senegal Gum
Topically, it has been used in lotions as a soothing agent, oil-in-water emulsifier, and as astringent. Acacia Senegal gum is used externally to cover inflamed surfaces like bums or nodular leprosy.
Acrylates/C10-30 Alkyl Acrylate Crosspolymer
Acrylates/C10-30 Alkyl Acrylate Crosspolymer is a universal, exceptionally easy-to-disperse polymer that offers the formulation flexibility of a multi-use rheological additive and a wide range of performance properties.
Alanine
Alanine
Alanine is an amino acid permanently produced in the human body. It is included in beauty formulations as an effective skin humectant.
Algae Extract
Algae Extract
Contains micro-nutrients such as iron, manganese, zinc, magnesium, copper.
Ammonium Lactate
Ammonium Lactate
This food-grade ingredient is valued for its humectant and skin conditioning effects and is used as an anionic surfactant.
Aprilose
Aprilose
Aprilose is a natural polymer containing in apricot kernel oil. It smooths, calms and soothes irritated skin.
Ascorbyl Palmitate
Ascorbyl Palmitate
Ascorbyl palmitate is the ester of L-ascorbic and palmitic acids. It's a fat- and water-soluble (amphipathic) antioxidant that has an increased shelf life thus used in many formulations.
Azelaic Acid
Azelaic Acid
Azelaic acid is another good ingredient for oily and problem skin or a skin with rosacea. It helps to prevent inflammation and their marks, soothes, relieves redness and swelling.
Beeswax
Beeswax
The honeybee produces an organic skincare ingredient, beeswax, which contains a mixture of fatty acids and esters. It is used in a range of organic skincare products as a thickener and emulsifier.
Behenyl alcohol
Behenyl alcohol
Behenyl alcohol is a long chain linear fatty alcohol (with 22 carn atoms) derived from natural raw materials such as rapeseed or coconut oils. It is a waxy solid at room temperature used in skin and hair care formulations as a thickener, emulsifier, binding agent, solubilizer, and gallant.
Benzyl Cinnamate
Benzyl Cinnamate
Benzyl Cinnamate is a 16-carbon ester (cinnamic acid benzyl ester) commonly used in the food industry as a flavor enhancer in non-alcoholic beverages, baked goods, and candy. It is a white-to-pale-yellow solid insoluble in water.
Beta-Sitosterol
Beta-Sitosterol
It is a valued ingredient in skin care preparations thanks to many beneficial effects on the skin, including anti-aging, immunomodulatory, antimicrobial, anti-inflammatory, wound healing, and antioxidant action.