Triethanolamine, also known as TEA, is a chemical widely used in personal care, cosmetics, and industrial applications. It is a clear or pale yellow liquid with a slight ammonia-like scent. Because it is both an amine and an alcohol, it has unique chemical properties that make it very useful. Not only does it help mix oil and water, but it also adjusts pH levels in many products. As a result, it appears in shampoos, creams, cleaners, and even cement. Manufacturers create Triethanolamine by reacting ethylene oxide with ammonia, which gives it a highly stable and effective structure.
Due to its chemical versatility, Triethanolamine has many uses. Let’s explore them one by one.
1. Cosmetics and Personal Care
First, TEA is essential in skin and hair care. It acts as an emulsifier, allowing water and oil to blend and without it, lotions and creams would separate quickly, Additionally, it works as a pH stabilizer. Many skin products must stay close to the skin’s natural pH level, and Triethanolamine ensures that. Moreover, it thickens products like shaving creams and body washes, giving them a luxurious feel.
2. Industrial Applications
On the industrial side, TEA is also widely used. It helps grind cement more efficiently by preventing clumping. Furthermore, it functions as a corrosion inhibitor in metalworking fluids. In addition, it is present in detergents, textile treatments, adhesive formulations and photographic chemicals. Because of its ability to stabilize pH and blend ingredients, industries use it in multiple steps of production.
3. Medical and Pharmaceutical Use
Notably, Triethanolamine appears in earwax removal solutions. It breaks down hardened wax gently without irritation. Besides that, it stabilizes medicinal creams, ensuring consistent texture and effectiveness throughout their shelf life.
When it comes to hair care, Triethanolamine plays a major role.
pH Balancing
Hair has a natural pH close to 5.5. Therefore, shampoos and conditioners must also match that level. Triethanolamine helps raise the pH if the formula is too acidic. As a result, it keeps the scalp healthy and prevents dryness or irritation.
Emulsifying and Thickening
Next, TEA reacts with fatty acids to create emulsifiers. These compounds help thicken shampoos and conditioners. So, users enjoy a rich, creamy texture that spreads easily through the hair.
Better Foam and Cleaning
Because of its interaction with other surfactants, TEA improves foaming. Foam not only enhances cleansing but also makes the product feel more effective. In short, it improves both product performance and user experience.
TEA is not just for hair—it benefits the skin, too.
Emulsifier in Creams
Most creams contain water and oil. Since these don’t mix on their own, Triethanolamine is added to bind them together. This way, the product stays smooth and stable.
Skin-Friendly pH Adjustment
The skin’s surface is slightly acidic. If a product is too basic or too acidic, it can cause redness or stinging. Thankfully, TEA adjusts the formula to be mild and non-irritating.
Product Stability and Shelf Life
In makeup like foundation and BB creams, TEA prevents separation. As a result, the product stays consistent and lasts longer on the shelf. That’s why many cosmetic brands rely on it.
One of the most important roles of Triethanolamine is pH adjustment. A 1% TEA solution in water has a pH around 10. Therefore, it is quite alkaline. Adding a small amount to acidic formulations helps bring the pH to a safer range. This matters because:
So, TEA keeps products balanced and gentle. Moreover, it ensures that preservatives work properly since many need a specific pH to stay active. Without pH control, products might lose effectiveness or spoil faster.
Like many chemicals, Triethanolamine prices vary. Factors such as grade, purity, volume, and location influence cost.
General Price Rang
However, these prices may change based on supply and demand. Therefore, it’s best to request a fresh quote before ordering.
Why Buy in Bulk?
Bulk purchases reduce cost per unit. If you manufacture skin or hair products, buying in drums or tons ensures long-term savings. Additionally, it guarantees consistent product quality and supply.
When sourcing Triethanolamine, choosing a trusted supplier matters. Fortunately, Basekim offers high-quality TEA with prompt service.
They operate in Turkey and the UAE, making them ideal for customers across Europe, Asia, and the Middle East.
They provide 85% and higher purity grades and they offer competitive pricing for both small and large quantities. Their logistics network ensures fast and reliable delivery. Whether you need TEA for cosmetics or industrial use, Basekim ensures consistency and compliance with international standards.
In regulated amounts, Triethanolamine is safe for personal and commercial use.
In Cosmetics
Most cosmetic products contain less than 3% TEA. At this level, it is non-irritating and non-toxic. It does not clog pores or cause allergic reactions in most users.
In Industry
For industrial handling, wearing protective gloves and goggles is advised. However, once diluted in finished products, TEA poses no significant risks.
Nitrosamine Concerns
Some concerns exist around TEA forming nitrosamines. But this only happens if it reacts with specific preservatives. Reputable formulators avoid such combinations. In short, with proper formulation, Triethanolamine is completely safe.
Triethanolamine, or TEA, is a crucial ingredient in both cosmetic and industrial applications. It stabilizes pH, improves texture, and keeps formulas effective and safe. Because it blends oils and water and maintains shelf stability, it is highly valued by manufacturers. For those seeking a trusted supplier, Basekim provides high-purity Triethanolamine from Turkey and the UAE. Whether you need it for creams, shampoos, or industrial products, TEA ensures consistent quality and performance. Choose Basekim for expert service and competitive pricing in global markets.
It is used to stabilize pH, blend ingredients, and improve texture in cosmetics, cleaning products, and industrial formulations.
Yes. In shampoos and conditioners, TEA is used in safe concentrations. It protects hair pH and improves product feel.
TEA keeps lotions and creams smooth, stable, and gentle on skin by adjusting the pH and binding water with oils.
A 1% TEA solution has a pH of around 10, making it alkaline. It is used to raise or balance pH in various formulas.
No. When used within recommended levels, it is non-toxic. Proper formulation ensures it is safe and effective.
Yes, but you must measure carefully and check final pH. It’s recommended to use pH strips or a meter.
Purity, quantity, market demand, and shipping origin all influence cost. Bulk buying typically lowers price per unit.
Basekim, based in Turkey and UAE, supplies high-quality TEA worldwide with reliable shipping and support.
Yes. TEA is the standard abbreviation for Triethanolamine and appears on many ingredient labels.
No. TEA does not affect hair follicles. It only helps the product feel and perform better.