What it is
A tertiary ethanolamine, clear viscous liquid.
What it does
pH adjuster and emulsifier in cosmetics, lotions, and hair care.
Why it’s a concern
Like DEA, TEA can react with nitrosating agents to form N-nitrosotriethanolamine, a suspected carcinogen. Long-term dermal exposure in rodents produced liver tumours per NTP studies. Contact dermatitis cases are documented. Cosmetic use depends on keeping nitrosamine precursors out of the formulation.
Also known as
TEAtrolamine2,2’,2’’-nitrilotriethanol
CAS numbers
102-71-6
Commonly found in
mascaraeye makeuplotionshaving cream
Safer alternatives
- potassium hydroxide solutions
- sodium hydroxide
- citric acid for pH reduction
Sources
- NTP Technical Report 449