Hago Wiki > Triethanolamine
Triethanolamine (TEA)
The pH Balancer & Neutralizer
What is Triethanolamine? Often abbreviated as TEA, this is a synthetic organic compound from the group of amines. It is not an active ingredient that you feel on the skin, but an indispensable technical helper in the background. Its main job is to ensure that the cosmetic product is stable and has the correct pH value for your skin.
⚖ Balance & Stability
TEA is mainly used as a neutralizing agent and buffer.
- pH Adjustment: Many ingredients (like Carbomer gels) are naturally acidic. TEA is a base added to raise the pH to a skin-neutral level. Only then do stable gels often form.
- Emulsifier Aid: It supports the formation of stable emulsions (mixtures of oil and water) so that the cream does not separate in the jar.
⚠ What you should watch out for
Safety & Regulation: Triethanolamine is strictly regulated in cosmetics. It may only be used up to certain maximum limits and not in products containing nitrosating agents to prevent the formation of undesirable substances (nitrosamines). In EU-compliant products like those from Hago, its use is considered safe.