Ingredient
Triethanolamine
What is Triethanolamine?
Triethanolamine is a chemical compound that acts as a pH balancer and emulsifier. It is synthesized through a chemical reaction between ethylene oxide and ammonia, resulting in a viscous, colorless liquid.
In skincare products, triethanolamine helps to stabilize and thicken formulations, ensuring uniform texture and consistency. There is some debate over its safety, as limited evidence suggests it can cause irritation in sensitive skin, but it is generally considered safe in small concentrations. Concerns about forming potentially harmful nitrosamines exist but have not been conclusively proven.
When you see triethanolamine on a label, generally, it's included for its role in improving product texture and stability, though individuals with sensitive skin may want to patch test first.
Commonly found in: Body Lotion, Skin Care, Shampoos, Conditioners, Facial Cleansers
What to watch
- May cause skin and eye irritation in sensitive individuals.
- Can form nitrosamines, which are potentially carcinogenic, under certain conditions.
The FDA allows triethanolamine in products with certain concentration limits to prevent irritation.
Studies show some potential for irritation and nitrosamine formation, though typically at higher concentrations than those used in cosmetics.
Triethanolamine is synthetic and not derived from animal sources, so it is generally considered vegan.
Sources: Opinion on Triethanolamine, Diethanolamine and Monoethanolamine · Final Report on the Safety Assessment of Triethanolamine
Scout's take
pH adjuster. EU restricts use due to potential nitrosamine formation when combined with other amines.
The case against
May cause irritation and has potential carcinogenic concerns due to nitrosamine formation.
from the analysis of The Ordinary - The Natural Moisturizing Factors + HA( / )The case for
It helps to maintain the pH balance of formulations.
from the analysis of The Ordinary - The Natural Moisturizing Factors + HA( / )More from Scout's analyses
Triethanolamine is used to adjust the pH of cosmetic formulations. It can be irritating to the skin and eyes, and there are concerns about the formation of nitrosamines, which are potential carcinogens. It is generally used in low concentrations to minimize risks.
from the analysis of The Ordinary - The Natural Moisturizing Factors + HA( / )pH adjuster. Can form trace nitrosamines if formulated alongside certain other ingredients; manufacturer must control for this.
from the analysis of The Ordinary Glycolic Acid 7% Exfoliating TonerFound in 6 products
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