Tea Dodecylbenzenesulfonate

Benefits

Cleansing

What is Tea Dodecylbenzenesulfonate?

TEA Dodecylbenzenesulfonate is the triethanolamine salt of dodecylbenzenesulfonic acid, a synthetic anionic surfactant produced from petroleum-derived alkylbenzene. Primarily found in rinse-off cleansing products such as shampoos, shower gels, and facial washes, it functions by dramatically lowering water's surface tension. This action enables water to penetrate and solubilize oils, sebum, and residues on skin and hair. The molecule's amphiphilic structure—hydrophilic head and hydrophobic tail—forms micelles that trap impurities for effortless rinsing. It also stabilizes foam bubbles through agitation, improving product spreadability and user satisfaction. Emulsifying capabilities help blend oil and water in formulations, preventing separation. Valued for robust performance in removing tough soils without residue, it supports clear, refreshed skin and hair post-use.

Comedogenic Rating 0/5 Low risk of clogging pores

EWG Safety Rating 1-2 View on EWG →

PubChem View on PubChem →

Roles in Formulation

This ingredient serves the following purposes in cosmetic formulations:

Surfactant

Lowers surface tension to enable cleansing, emulsifying, and foaming; central to shampoos, body washes, and many emulsions and micellar systems.

Cleansing agent

Removes dirt, oil, and impurities by lowering surface tension and forming micelles, enabling soils to be lifted and rinsed away from skin, hair, or teeth.

Foaming

Generates foam during use to help distribute the product and lift soils; typically delivered by surfactants that create stable bubbles under agitation.

Benefits

Delivers effective cleansing by emulsifying oils and dirt for thorough removal

Generates stable foam to enhance product distribution and rinsing

Non-comedogenic formula helps maintain clear pores in cleansing routines

Who It's For

A quick guide for who this ingredient may suit (and who should be cautious).

Who May Benefit	Who Should Avoid
Individuals with oily skin seeking strong impurity removal	Those with sensitivity to anionic surfactants
Users of heavy makeup or sunscreen needing reliable rinse-off	Individuals prone to dryness from strong cleansers
People who enjoy rich lathering in shampoos and body washes	People preferring gentler, non-synthetic cleansing agents

Safety Notes

Considered low hazard in typical cosmetic concentrations for rinse-off use
Rinse thoroughly to minimize potential mild irritation from prolonged contact

Frequently Asked Questions about Tea Dodecylbenzenesulfonate

What does TEA Dodecylbenzenesulfonate do in products?

It acts as a surfactant to lower surface tension, form micelles for dirt removal, and create foam in cleansers.

Is it suitable for acne-prone skin?

Yes, with a non-comedogenic rating, it cleanses without clogging pores.

Can it cause irritation?

Low irritation potential in rinse-off products; sensitive users should patch test.