• Effective pH balancer in creams and lotions
• Helps stabilize oil-in-water emulsions
• Boosts viscosity when combined with carbomers
• Versatile for use in cleansers, gels, creams, and hair products
• Water-soluble and easy to incorporate in DIY projects

🧪 TEA (Triethanolamine) Liquid

 Triethanolamine (TEA) is a clear, viscous liquid compound used widely in cosmetic formulations as a pH adjuster and emulsifier. It plays a key role in neutralizing acidic components, helping to thicken and stabilize formulations when combined with carbomers. TEA is an essential ingredient in many lotions, gels, sunscreens, and cleansing products, ensuring smooth texture and extended shelf life. Suitable for DIY formulators who require control over pH and texture.

INCI Name: Triethanolamine

CAS Number: 102-71-6

Solubility: Water-soluble

Add Phase: Heated water phase (up to 75°C)

pH Stability: Effective in pH 5 – 11

Processing Temperature: Up to 75°C

Appearance: Clear, colorless to pale yellow liquid

Odor: Slight ammonia-like odor

Molecular Formula: C₆H₁₅NO₃

Molecular Weight: 149.19 g/mol

Flash Point: > 180°C

Density: ~1.13 g/cm³

Chemical Type: Alkanolamine

Functional Groups: Hydroxyl, amine

Primary Cosmetic Uses: pH adjustment, emulsification, thickening agent

• Usage Rate: 0.5% – 2% (as pH adjuster), up to 5% with carbomers
• Recommended Products: Creams, lotions, hair gels, facial cleansers
• Storage: Store tightly sealed in a cool, dry place away from direct sunlight

Use TEA at around 1% to neutralize Carbomer gels for stable viscosity. Always test and adjust pH at the end of your formulation to avoid overuse.

✔️ Normal

✔️ Oily

✔️ Combination

❌ Not ideal for very sensitive or compromised skin at higher concentrations

1. pH-Balanced Face Cream

0.8% TEA

1% Carbomer

10% Oils

0.5% Preservative

Balance: Distilled Water

2. Hair Gel Base

1% TEA

1.2% Carbomer

0.5% Glycerin

0.3% Preservative

Balance: Water

3. Body Lotion

0.5% TEA

5% Emulsifying Wax

10% Carrier Oils

0.5% Preservative

Balance: Water Phase

Serums
⭐⭐☆☆☆ – Fair
🟧🟧⬜⬜⬜


Creams & Lotions
⭐⭐⭐⭐☆ – Good
🟩🟩🟩🟩⬜


Toners
⭐⭐☆☆☆ – Fair
🟧🟧⬜⬜⬜


Face Masks
⭐⭐⭐☆☆ – Moderate
🟨🟨🟨⬜⬜


Cleansers
⭐⭐⭐⭐☆ – Good
🟩🟩🟩🟩⬜


Hair Masks
⭐⭐⭐☆☆ – Moderate
🟨🟨🟨⬜⬜


Deodorants
⭐⭐☆☆☆ – Fair
🟧🟧⬜⬜⬜


Eye Creams
⭐☆☆☆☆ – Not Ideal
🟥⬜⬜⬜⬜


Shampoos
⭐⭐⭐⭐☆ – Good
🟩🟩🟩🟩⬜


Soaps
⭐⭐⭐☆☆ – Moderate
🟨🟨🟨⬜⬜


Conditioners
⭐⭐⭐⭐☆ – Good
🟩🟩🟩🟩⬜


Lip Balms
☆☆☆☆☆ – Not Suitable
🟥⬜⬜⬜⬜


Body Butters
⭐⭐⭐☆☆ – Moderate
🟨🟨🟨⬜⬜


Ointments
⭐⭐☆☆☆ – Fair
🟧🟧⬜⬜⬜

Q1: Can TEA be used with all emulsifiers?

No, TEA is primarily used with Carbomer or specific emulsifying systems. Avoid using with acidic ingredients without testing pH.

Q2: Is it suitable for leave-on facial products?

In low concentrations (below 1%), yes. Avoid overuse to reduce potential skin sensitivity.

Q3: Is TEA safe for children’s products?

Not recommended unless used in rinse-off products at low levels.