Triethanolamine is a widely used organic compound classified as an alkanolamine. It is typically a clear, colorless to pale yellow viscous liquid with a mild, characteristic amine-like odor. It is highly soluble in water, ethanol, and other polar solvents, and miscible with many cosmetic oils and surfactants. It has good thermal stability and chemical compatibility, and can react with acids to form salts, making it a versatile ingredient in personal care, cosmetics, industrial formulations, and even some pharmaceutical applications. It is valued for its multifunctional properties, including pH adjustment, emulsification, and conditioning effects.

Efficacy

pH Adjuster and Buffering Agent: It is an effective alkaline pH adjuster that can neutralize acidic ingredients in formulations to achieve a desired pH level, which is critical for product stability and skin compatibility. It also acts as a buffer, helping to maintain the pH stability of the product over time, preventing pH fluctuations that could degrade active ingredients or cause skin irritation.

Emulsifier and Emulsion Stabilizer: It can form stable emulsions by reducing the surface tension between oil and water phases. It is often used in creams, lotions, and other emulsion-based products to help blend oil-soluble and water-soluble ingredients into a homogeneous, smooth texture. It also enhances the stability of emulsions, preventing phase separation during storage or use.

Skin and Hair Conditioning Agent: It has good affinity for skin and hair. For the skin, it can soften and moisturize, improving skin texture and leaving the skin feeling smooth and supple. For hair, it can reduce static electricity, improve hair manageability, reduce friction between hair strands, and enhance the shine and softness of the hair.

Chelating Agent and Solubilizer: It has mild chelating properties, which can bind to metal ions in formulations, preventing them from catalyzing the oxidation of oils and other ingredients, thus extending the shelf life of the product. It also acts as a solubilizer, helping to dissolve some poorly soluble active ingredients or fragrances, making the formulation more homogeneous and effective.