Surfactant
TEA-TAURINE LAUROYL METHYL BETA-ALANINATE
Safety score · 0–100
Moderate
Derived from EU CosIng regulatory status, PubChem hazard data and published research. How we score.
About
A triethanolamine salt of a taurine/beta-alaninate surfactant. Surfactant-wise gentle, but the TEA portion raises nitrosamine concerns — usually a better choice in sodium/potassium form.
TEA-Taurine Lauroyl Methyl Beta-Alaninate is the triethanolamine (TEA) salt of a lauroyl-taurine-methyl-beta-alaninate amino acid surfactant. The surfactant scaffold itself is considered mild and skin-compatible — structurally similar to sodium lauroyl methyl taurate / lauroyl sarcosinate-type amino acid surfactants used in premium cleansers. The concern is the TEA counter-ion: the SCCS and CIR have flagged TEA salts for potential N-nitroso-diethanolamine (NDELA) formation when formulated with nitrosating species (e.g., 2-bromo-2-nitropropane-1,3-diol, certain preservatives, nitrite impurities). NDELA is an IARC Group 2B carcinogen. EU CosIng limits TEA to 2.5% max in leave-on and rinse-off, and prohibits combination with nitrosating agents. At properly formulated rinse-off levels without nitrosating co-ingredients, risk is low.
Skin benefits
- Mild amino acid-based surfactant
- Gentler rinse-off than sulfate surfactants
- Contributes foam in cleansers
Known concerns
- TEA (triethanolamine) salt — nitrosamine formation risk if co-formulated with nitrosating agents
- Must exclude nitrite/nitrosating impurities from formula
- Less preferred than sodium or potassium salt forms
References
EU CosIng database
European Commission cosmetic ingredient registry — regulatory status, restrictions, authorised functions.
Related surfactants
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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.