TEA-Stearate
molecular structure · PubChem
AKA: 4568-28-9, Octadecanoic acid, Compd. with 2, 2''-nitrilotris(ethanol)(1:1), Triethanolamine stearate, Octadecanoate;tris(2-hydroxyethyl)azanium, CCRIS 6278
Plant-Derived
Cleanser
Emulsifier
Not Clean
Stearic acid, compound with 2,2',2''-nitrilotriethanol (1:1)
Solubility less than 1 mg/mL at 68 °F (NTP, 1992)
Formula
C24H51NO5
Mol. Weight
433.70
CAS #
4568-28-9
Functions
Cleansing
Makes oil and water mix so dirt, makeup, and sunscreen can actually be washed away. The reason your face wash foams.
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.
Surfactant Cleansing
Surfactant Emulsifying
Traditional Use
A synthetic emulsifier developed by combining triethanolamine with stearic acid (derived from animal and plant fats) in the mid-20th century. Used widely in cosmetics and personal care products.
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-reviewednone on file
⚖️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