What skin types is Triethanolamine good for?

Triethanolamine is suitable for all skin types.

Is Triethanolamine safe to use every day?

Triethanolamine can generally be used morning and evening. Recommended concentration: 0.1–5% in formulations.

Triethanolamine

Triethanolamine

Also known as: TEA · Trolamine

pH adjusterEmulsifier

“A widely used pH balancer and emulsifier found in many creams and lotions.”

Skin types

All types

Pore-clogging

Non-comedogenic

Use when

AM & PM

Concentration

0.1–5%

What it does

Triethanolamine (TEA) is an alkaline compound used in skincare primarily to adjust pH and as an emulsifier. It is found in a wide range of moisturisers, sunscreens, and cleansers. At approved concentrations in rinse-off and leave-on products, it has a good safety profile, though it can cause sensitisation in some people with prolonged contact.

Benefits

Maintains optimal product pH
Acts as an emulsifier to stabilise creams

How to layer

☀️ Morning routine

Cleanser

Toner

Serum

Moisturiser

SPF

🌙 Evening routine

Cleanser

Toner

Serum

Moisturiser

Face Oil

After cleansing, before moisturiser

Good for

All skin

Heads up

⚠May cause contact sensitisation with prolonged use in susceptible individuals
⚠Can form nitrosamines (potential carcinogens) in the presence of certain preservatives — well-regulated

How to use

A background formulation ingredient. No special application needed.

Typical concentration: 0.1–5% in formulations