TRIETHANOLAMINE
Commonly Found In
Overview
Triethanolamine (TEA) is a pH adjuster and emulsifier used in cosmetic creams and lotions. The EU limits it to a maximum of 2.5% and requires a product pH β€ 9. It can form nitrosamines when combined with nitrosating agents, which is why products containing TEA must not include nitrosating agents. IARC classifies TEA as Group 2B (possible carcinogen) at very high doses in animal studies.
Also known as: TEA, trolamine, 2,2',2''-nitrilotriethanol, trihydroxyethylamine
Key Benefits
Functions as a pH adjuster and emulsifier; no direct skin benefit. Studies suggest nitrosamine formation risk when combined with nitrosating agents, which led to EU co-formulation restrictions. IARC Group 2B classification at very high doses not applicable at cosmetic-use levels.
Supporting Research
- β’ CIR Expert Panel (2013): TEA safe in cosmetics at β€5% when products do not contain nitrosating agents
- β’ IARC Group 2B: Possible carcinogen at very high doses in animal studies; not established to be carcinogenic at cosmetic-use levels
Skin Compatibility Ratings
Comedogenic Rating
Non-comedogenic at typical use concentrations
Source: CIR Expert Panel
Irritancy Rating
Low to moderate irritancy; nitrosamine formation potential at high concentrations or in presence of nitrosating agents is the primary concern
Source: CIR Expert Panel; published literature
Typical Use Concentration
Range
0.5β5%
Optimal
1β2.5% (EU limit)
EU Annex III/62: max 2.5% with pH β€ 9 restriction. Japan and US permit up to ~5% as pH adjuster/emulsifier.
Works Well With / Avoid
Works Well With
Avoid Combining
EU Annex III/62: max 2.5%; pH β€ 9; must not be combined with nitrosating agents. IARC Group 2B at high doses, not a practical concern at cosmetic use levels. Japan and US permit higher concentrations.
Commonly Found In
Global Regulation Summary
Overview of current status across major international markets.
Detailed Regional Status
| Region | Status | Max Conc. | Conditions | Source |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| πͺπΊ EU | Banned | - | - | Official β |
| πΊπΈ USA | Allowed | - | - | Official β |
| π―π΅ Japan | Allowed | - | - | Official β |
| π°π· Korea | Unknown | - | - | Official β |
| π¬π§ UK | Restricted | - | Follows EU regulations (III/62) | Official β |
π Why Regulations Differ
EU Annex III/62 restricts TEA to 2.5% (pH β€ 9) and prohibits co-formulation with nitrosating agents due to nitrosamine formation risk. Japan and US permit higher concentrations. IARC 2B classification (very high dose animal data) has not been extrapolated to cosmetic-use risk by major regulatory bodies.
Regulation Analysis
Regional Agreement
Banned in EU but allowed in USA, Japan.
Category Comparison
There are 41 ingredients in the BUFFERING category. 100% are banned in at least one major market.
Strictness Ranking
πΏ Natural Sources
Synthetic compound produced from ethylene oxide and ammonia. Not found in nature.
π How It's Made
Produced by reacting ethylene oxide with ammonia under controlled conditions. Forms mixture of mono-, di-, and triethanolamine.
π Uses in Cosmetics
pH adjuster in creams and lotions. Can form nitrosamines when combined with nitrosating agents. EU limits to 5% maximum concentration.
π¬ Other Applications
Cement additives, metalworking fluids, gas sweetening, and pharmaceutical intermediates.
π‘ Fun Facts
- β’ The nitrosamine contamination concern led to EU restrictions: products must not contain nitrosating agents if TEA is present
- β’ TEA was one of the first pH adjusters used in cosmetics, dating back to early 20th century
- β’ Despite safety concerns, TEA remains widely used due to its effectiveness and low cost
Data Sources
- β’ EU Cosmetics Regulation 1223/2009 Annex III entry 62
- β’ CIR Expert Panel (2013) β Safety Assessment of Triethanolamine
- β’ IARC Monograph Vol. 77 β Group 2B classification for TEA
Last data verification: 2026-04-12
Related Ingredients
UNDECYLENIC ACID
AMMONIA
COCAMIDE DEA
LANOLINAMIDE DEA
CITRIC ACID
Tween 20
POLYSORBATE 20
Learn More
Frequently Asked Questions
Why is TRIETHANOLAMINE banned in the EU but allowed in the US?
The EU follows a precautionary principle, banning TRIETHANOLAMINE under III/62 due to potential safety concerns. The US FDA has not found sufficient evidence to prohibit its use, allowing it under different safety assessment standards. This reflects differing regulatory philosophies between the two regions.
Why is TRIETHANOLAMINE banned in the EU but allowed in Japan?
The EU prohibits TRIETHANOLAMINE (III/62) based on their strict safety criteria. Japan's Ministry of Health, Labour and Welfare (MHLW) has evaluated the ingredient and permits its use, potentially with different safety data or usage conditions.
What is TRIETHANOLAMINE used for in cosmetics?
TRIETHANOLAMINE is primarily used for buffering in cosmetic products. It also serves as fragrance, surfactant - cleansing. The ingredient is commonly found in various cosmetic and personal care products.
Which countries regulate TRIETHANOLAMINE?
TRIETHANOLAMINE is banned in EU. It has concentration limits or usage restrictions in UK. The ingredient is freely allowed in JP, US.
Are there alternatives to TRIETHANOLAMINE?
Due to regulatory restrictions on TRIETHANOLAMINE, cosmetic manufacturers often use alternative ingredients with similar functions. For buffering, alternatives may include other approved ingredients in the same category. Consult product labels for specific formulations, and look for products compliant with your region's regulations.
Disclaimer
The information on this website is for educational and informational purposes only and is not intended as medical advice. While we strive for accuracy based on official government databases, cosmetic regulations change frequently. Always consult with a qualified professional or refer to the latest official regulatory documents for compliance. We are not responsible for any actions taken based on the information provided here.