Science
Mechanism of Action
This ingredient operates by significantly reducing the surface tension between immiscible oil and water phases, thereby facilitating their homogeneous mixing to form stable emulsions. As a cleansing agent, it aids water in interacting with and removing oils and impurities from the skin and hair upon rinsing. Additionally, its Triethanolamine component can act as a pH adjuster, helping to maintain desired product acidity or alkalinity, and it serves as a surfactant to ensure uniform distribution of ingredients. It may also enhance the skin's absorption of other active compounds.
Research
Clinical Evidence
Low confidenceN/A
Key findings
- 01 Evaluated as safe for use in cosmetic formulations designed for prolonged contact with the skin at concentrations up to 15%, provided the Triethanolamine (TEA) content within the formulation does not exceed 5%. No specific concentration limits were established for products rinsed off shortly after application.
Transparency
Dusting Analysis
The provided data does not indicate that TEA-Stearate is commonly 'dusted' at negligible concentrations for marketing purposes; its functional roles necessitate effective inclusion levels.
The Formula
Formulation
Stability
TEA-Stearate effectively stabilizes oil-in-water emulsions, preventing the separation of oil and water phases. Formulations incorporating TEA-Stearate typically exhibit a mildly alkaline pH, ranging approximately from 7.43 to 7.96. This alkalinity may affect the stability of pH-sensitive phytochemicals or disrupt the skin's delicate acid mantle. Over time, hydrolysis can occur, leading to the degradation of the lamellar gel phase and the formation of stearic acid crystals.
Conflicts
- N-nitrosating agents, to prevent the formation of N-nitroso compounds (nitrosamines).
- Strong acids or components that necessitate an acidic pH for stability, due to TEA-Stearate's inherent alkaline nature.
Safety
Safety Profile
The CIR Expert Panel concluded TEA-Stearate is safe in cosmetic formulations under specific conditions: a maximum concentration of 15% in products for prolonged skin contact (to ensure Triethanolamine (TEA) content does not exceed 5%), and it must not be used in formulations containing N-nitrosating agents. While not directly regulated by the EU, the Triethanolamine component must adhere to the EU's 2.5% limit. Stearic Acid, one of its components, is on the FDA's GRAS list, and both Triethanolamine and Stearic Acid are allowed in food by the FDA.
Your Skin
Skin Compatibility
Our Assessment
Verdict
TEA-Stearate is a valuable multi-functional ingredient highly effective in stabilizing emulsions, contributing to cleansing, and regulating product viscosity, provided its application strictly adheres to established safety guidelines regarding concentration limits and incompatibility with N-nitrosating agents.
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