Triethanolamine Lauryl Sulfate

Benefits
Cleansing

What is Triethanolamine Lauryl Sulfate?

Triethanolamine lauryl sulfate is the triethanolamine salt of lauryl sulfuric acid, an anionic surfactant synthesized by sulfating lauryl alcohol—typically derived from coconut or palm kernel oil—and neutralizing it with triethanolamine, a mild base. It belongs to the alkyl sulfate family commonly used in personal care formulations. In cosmetics, it serves primarily in rinse-off cleansers such as shampoos, bubble baths, and body washes. Functionally, it reduces surface tension between water and oils, enabling the formation of micelles that trap and remove dirt, sebum, and residues. Its ability to generate stable foam enhances product spreadability and user experience, while emulsifying properties stabilize oil-in-water mixtures during manufacturing. This ingredient excels in hard water conditions due to the buffering effect of triethanolamine, distinguishing it from harsher sodium-based sulfates.

Comedogenic Rating 0/5 Low risk of clogging pores
EWG Safety Rating 1-4 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.
Emulsifying agent
Enables stable mixing of oil and water phases by forming an interfacial film, helping create lotions, creams, and cleansers with consistent texture.
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 thorough cleansing by lifting dirt, oil, and impurities from skin and hair.

Produces rich, stable foam for even product distribution and rinsing.

Supports emulsion stability in cleansers and washes for smooth textures.

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 or hair seeking strong cleansing action.
Those with sensitive or easily irritated skin.
Users who enjoy foaming products like shampoos and body washes.
Individuals prone to dryness after using foaming cleansers.
People in areas with hard water needing effective surfactant performance.
People experiencing eye discomfort from surfactant-based products.

Safety Notes

  • Rated low to moderate concern by safety assessments for rinse-off use.
  • Potential for mild irritation if not fully rinsed, especially around eyes.

Frequently Asked Questions about Triethanolamine Lauryl Sulfate

What does triethanolamine lauryl sulfate do in products?

It acts as a surfactant to cleanse by removing oils and dirt, while providing foam and aiding emulsions in washes.

Is it safe for daily use?

Safety reviews deem it suitable in rinse-off cosmetics at typical levels, with low overall concern.

Does it clog pores?

It has a comedogenic rating of zero, unlikely to contribute to pore blockages.