At a glance
- CAS number
- 102-71-6
- INCI name
- Triethanolamine
- Function
- ph_adjuster, emulsifier, surfactant, chelator
- Typical use level
- 0.1%–2.5%
- Solubility
- water
- Stable pH
- 7–11
CAS number and synonyms are sourced from PubChem. Function, usage levels, pH and compatibility are AI-assisted formulation guidance — verify against your supplier's technical data sheet and applicable regulations before use.
Also known as
Trolamine 2,2',2''-Nitrilotriethanol Sterolamide Daltogen Tris(2-hydroxyethyl)amine Nitrilotriethanol Triethylolamine Trihydroxytriethylamine Thiofaco T-35 Sting-Kill Triethanolamin Tri(hydroxyethyl)amine
Compatibility
Works well with:
Carbomer Acrylates Copolymer Xanthan Gum Glycerin Niacinamide Hyaluronic Acid Fatty Acids
Use caution with:
L-Ascorbic Acid AHA Acids Salicylic Acid Strong Mineral Acids Oxidizing Agents Copper Salts Iron Salts
TEA is a strong base and will neutralize acidic actives such as L-Ascorbic Acid, AHAs, and BHAs, rendering them ineffective and causing pH incompatibility. It can form nitrosamines in the presence of nitrosating agents or certain preservative systems, which is a key safety concern. Heavy metal ions (copper, iron) can catalyze its degradation and discoloration.
Formulation notes
EU Cosmetics Regulation restricts TEA to a maximum of 2.5% in rinse-off products and 0.5% in leave-on products; products must have a minimum purity of 99% to limit diethanolamine content. Nitrosamine formation risk requires avoidance of nitrosating co-ingredients. Patch sensitivity may occur in some individuals. Increasingly being replaced by safer neutralizers such as Sodium Hydroxide or Aminomethyl Propanol in modern formulations.
Frequently asked questions
What is Triethanolamine?
Triethanolamine is a ph_adjuster, emulsifier, surfactant, chelator used in cosmetic and personal-care formulation. Typical use level is 0.1%–2.5%. It is water-soluble. Stable in the pH 7–11 range.
What is Triethanolamine used for?
Triethanolamine is used as ph_adjuster, emulsifier, surfactant, chelator in cosmetic and personal-care formulations.
What is the typical use level of Triethanolamine?
Triethanolamine is typically used at 0.1%–2.5% in the finished formulation. Always confirm against your supplier's technical data sheet.
What is the CAS number of Triethanolamine?
The CAS registry number for Triethanolamine is 102-71-6. Its INCI name is Triethanolamine.
At what pH is Triethanolamine stable?
Triethanolamine is generally stable in the pH 7–11 range.
What ingredients are compatible with Triethanolamine?
Triethanolamine works well with Carbomer, Acrylates Copolymer, Xanthan Gum, Glycerin, Niacinamide, Hyaluronic Acid, Fatty Acids. Use caution when combining it with L-Ascorbic Acid, AHA Acids, Salicylic Acid, Strong Mineral Acids, Oxidizing Agents, Copper Salts, Iron Salts.
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