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TEA-C12-13 PARETH-3 SULFATE

45

Safety score · 0–100

Moderate

Derived from EU CosIng regulatory status, PubChem hazard data and published research. How we score.

About

An ethoxylated alcohol sulfate surfactant listed in EU Annex III requiring specific purity criteria, particularly regarding 1,4-dioxane content.

TEA-C12-13 PARETH-3 Sulfate is the triethanolamine salt of an ethoxylated, sulfated C12-13 alcohol with approximately 3 moles of ethylene oxide. It is a surfactant used in rinse-off cosmetic products for its cleansing and foaming properties. The EU Annex III listing (ref III/62) requires specific purity criteria, particularly concerning 1,4-dioxane, a potential carcinogen that can form during ethoxylation. Commercial products must be properly purified to meet the 1,4-dioxane limit. The surfactant is restricted to rinse-off products and requires careful formulation to avoid eye contact.

Skin benefits

  • Effective cleansing surfactant
  • Good foaming properties for rinse-off products

Known concerns

  • EU Annex III listed with purity requirements
  • 1,4-dioxane contamination risk from ethoxylation
  • Must be purified to meet safety limits
  • Eye contact should be avoided
  • Restricted to rinse-off products

References

EU

EU CosIng database

European Commission cosmetic ingredient registry — regulatory status, restrictions, authorised functions.

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This profile is for educational purposes and does not constitute medical advice. Regulatory status and scientific understanding evolve — always read the physical product label and consult a healthcare professional for personal concerns.