Triethanolamine

try-ETH-an-ol-AM-een

Emulsifier, pH Adjuster 5/10 Safety Not CGControversial Synthetic Vegan

What Is Triethanolamine?

A pH adjuster and emulsifier used in hair care products to maintain proper acidity levels. Like DEA, it can form nitrosamines when combined with certain other ingredients.

Source: Synthetic organic compound

Origin: Synthetic

Also known as: TEA, Trolamine, 2,2,2-Nitrilotriethanol

What Does Triethanolamine Do to Your Hair?

Adjusts and buffers the pH of hair product formulations to optimal levels. Also acts as an emulsifier and surfactant. Helps neutralize fatty acids to form soap-like emulsions in styling products and conditioners.

Best For

All hair types (functional ingredient only)

Not Recommended For

Sensitive scalp, those avoiding nitrosamine-forming ingredients

Concentration Matters

0.5-2.5% in products

Hair Type Compatibility

1A Straight Fine
1B Straight Medium
1C Straight Coarse
2A Wavy Fine
2B Wavy Medium
2C Wavy Coarse
3A Curly Loose
3B Curly Tight
3C Curly Corkscrew
4A Coily S-Shaped
4B Coily Z-Shaped
4C Coily Tight

Method Compatibility

Curly Girl (CG) Method: Avoid
CG Avoid

Safety & Regulation

5/10
AvoidCautionSafe

Same nitrosamine formation concern as DEA, though slightly less pronounced. EU restricts use to 2.5% maximum and requires products be free of nitrosating agents. Generally safe at low concentrations in well-formulated products.

FDA Status: Generally Recognized As Safe

FDA permits use in cosmetics but advises against combining with nitrosating agents. EU restricts to 2.5% max.

EWG Score: 4/10

HairAide Verdict

Less concerning than DEA but the nitrosamine issue still applies. Used at lower concentrations and risk is minimal in properly formulated products. If you are cautious, look for products that use citric acid or sodium hydroxide instead.

Products That Contain Triethanolamine

Shampoos, conditioners, styling gels, hair creams

Alternatives to Triethanolamine

If you want to avoid Triethanolamine, look for products with these ingredients instead:

Sodium Hydroxide, Citric Acid, AMP (Aminomethyl Propanol)

Frequently Asked Questions

Is Triethanolamine safe for hair?

Triethanolamine has a safety rating of 5/10. It's generally acceptable but may cause issues for some hair types. Same nitrosamine formation concern as DEA, though slightly less pronounced. EU restricts use to 2.5% maximum and requires products be free of nitrosating agents. Generally safe at low concentrations in well-formulated products.

Is Triethanolamine bad for curly hair?

Triethanolamine is not CG-method approved. Curly hair types may want to avoid this ingredient or use products containing it sparingly.

Is Triethanolamine CG-method approved?

No, Triethanolamine is not approved for the Curly Girl method.

What can I use instead of Triethanolamine?

Some alternatives to Triethanolamine include: Sodium Hydroxide, Citric Acid, AMP (Aminomethyl Propanol)

Get Our Free Ingredient Decoder Cheat Sheet

Take the guesswork out of reading product labels. Our printable cheat sheet helps you decode ingredients while you shop.

Check What's In Your Products

Use our free Hair Product Label Analyzer to check any product's ingredient list instantly.

Analyze My Product →