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Surfactant

TEA-LAURATE/MYRISTATE

50

Safety score · 0–100

Moderate

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

A triethanolamine salt of lauric and myristic fatty acids used as a cleansing surfactant. The TEA portion is a known nitrosamine-former when combined with nitrosating agents — a significant formulation caveat.

Function

CLEANSINGSURFACTANT - EMULSIFYINGSURFACTANT - CLEANSING

Skin benefits

  • Effective cleansing surfactant
  • Emulsifying and pH-buffering action
  • Cost-effective in formulation

Known concerns

  • Triethanolamine forms carcinogenic nitrosamines if combined with nitrosating agents
  • EU restricts TEA use and requires no nitrosating co-ingredients
  • Skin and eye irritation potential at higher concentrations

References

EU

EU CosIng database

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

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DISODIUM NONOXYNOL-10 SULFOSUCCINATE
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Check your shelf

Find TEA-LAURATE/MYRISTATE in your products.

Scan any cosmetic product with LuxSense to see if it contains TEA-LAURATE/MYRISTATE and get a full ingredient breakdown with safety scores.

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