TEA-Lauryl Sulfate
molecular structure · PubChem
AKA: TRIETHANOLAMINE LAURYL SULFATE, 139-96-8, Drene, Texapon TH, Tea lauryl sulfate, Sterling wat, Sulfetal lt, Standapol T, Propaste T
Plant-Derived
Cleanser
Emulsifier
Plant Oil
Not Clean
tris(2-Hydroxyethyl)ammonium dodecylsulphate
Formula
C18H41NO7S
Mol. Weight
415.60
CAS #
139-96-8
Form
Powder
Functions
Cleansing
Makes oil and water mix so dirt, makeup, and sunscreen can actually be washed away. The reason your face wash foams.
Foaming
Cleansing
Makes oil and water mix so dirt, makeup, and sunscreen can actually be washed away. The reason your face wash foams.
Emulsifying
Forces oil and water to stay mixed instead of separating into layers. The unsung hero holding your lotion together.
Removes Impurities
Creates Lather
Cleansing Surfactant
Emulsifier
Removes dirt and impurities
Creates cleansing foam
Lifts away dirt and oil
Mixes oil and water
Traditional Use
Developed in the mid-20th century as a synthetic sulfate-based surfactant combining triethanolamine with lauryl sulfate. Created as a strong cleansing agent widely used in shampoos, body washes, and cosmetic formulations.
EWG
4
CIR
Safe as used
Pregnancy
Yes
Restricted By
CIR Safety Findings
Not a Sensitizer
medical-approval
all-shades-safe
Regulatory Agencies
Skin Types
●all-skin-types
Best For
General
Pregnancy & Breastfeeding Safe
Yes
The paper trail
🔬Peer-reviewed1 paper →
⚖️Regulatory1 listing →
🛡️Safety-assessed2 reviews →
Counts, not a verdict. A listing isn't a study. The trail, you decide.
Verified Jun 2026
Data: PubChem · CosIng · EWG · CIR