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Triethanolamine

  • Bases
  • CAS 102-71-6
  • IUPAC: 2,2',2''-nitrilotriethanol

H319 (eye irritation) at ingredient level. Mild skin irritant in some individuals. Not classified as a sensitizer at typical use concentrations. The N-nitrosamine pathway is of regulatory concern but requires specific co-formulation conditions.

Triethanolamine (TEA) is a tertiary amine alcohol used as a pH buffer, emulsifier, and chelating agent in cleaning and personal care formulations. At consumer product concentrations (typically <2%) it is not significantly hazardous; the primary regulatory concern is the potential for in-bottle reaction with nitrosating co-ingredients to form N-nitrosodiethanolamine (NDELA), a Prop 65 carcinogen. Modern formulations using TEA generally avoid the co-ingredients that drive that pathway.

Health & environment profile

VOC
no
Prop 65 listed
no
Asthmagen
no
EPA Safer Choice
no
Aquatic toxicity
no
Biodegradable
yes
Bioaccumulative
no
Persistent
no
Ozone depleting
no
Microplastic
no
PFAS
no
Env. score
4/5
Purpose: pH buffer and emulsifier in cleaning and conditioning formulations; mildly alkaline

1 product contain this

Health summaries are editorial — we synthesize from SDSs, peer-reviewed sources, and regulatory listings. Not medical advice.