Triethanolamine (TEA) is a viscous organic compound that is both a tertiary amine and a triol. It is used as a surfactant, pH adjusting chemical, fragrance ingredient, and emulsifying agent in various products such as cosmetics, personal care products, household cleaning products, packaging and materials, and pharmaceuticals. Triethanolamine is produced from the reaction of ethylene oxide with aqueous ammonia, and the ratio of the products can be controlled by changing the stoichiometry of the reactants.

Here are some positive and negative aspects of triethanolamine:

Positive:

• Triethanolamine helps to neutralize ingredients that can increase the acidity of a product, making it an excellent ingredient for naturally acidic formulations.
• It stabilizes and increases the pH of products to improve the way they feel and interact with the skin.

Negative:

• According to the Cosmetic Ingredient Review, Association of Occupational and Environmental Clinics, and the U.S. National Library of Medicine, there is strong evidence that Triethanolamine is a human skin, immune system and respiratory toxicant.
• One or more animal studies show sense organ effects at very low doses, especially when used around the mouth, eyes, and lips, and one or more in vitro tests on mammalian cells show positive mutation results.
• In products intended for prolonged contact with the skin, the concentration of Triethanolamine should not exceed 5%.

The ingredients or materials of triethanolamine are ethylene oxide, aqueous ammonia, diethanolamine, and ethanolamine.