Tetrahydroxypropyl Ethylenediamine

Tetrahydroxypropyl ethylenediamine is a water-soluble alkanolamine used as a pH adjuster and neutralizer in cosmetic products. Brands use it to fine-tune acidity, improve spreadability, and support moisture retention in water-based systems.
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Ingredient Snapshot

Overview
Balances a formula's pH so it feels gentler and less likely to sting.
Category
Sensitive Skin, Hydration
Type
pH Adjuster

Ingredient Ratings

Overall Rating

Fair

Comedogenic Risk

None

Skin Benefits

Balances product pH to help formulas feel gentler and reduce potential sting. Any moisturizing effect is mostly indirect and depends on the overall formula, with limited direct evidence.

Uses In Skincare & Cosmetics

Used in toners, gels, and lightweight moisturizers as a neutralizer and buffer for skin comfort, and also present in cleansers and serums to fine-tune pH for stability and pleasant skin feel.

Comedogenic Rating

This ingredient is not typically evaluated for comedogenicity, and no standardized rating is available.

Safety

May cause stinging or irritation, particularly for sensitive or compromised skin and around the eyes. Best tolerated at the lowest effective level in well-buffered formulas; discontinue if persistent redness or burning occurs.

Is Tetrahydroxypropyl Ethylenediamine a Good Ingredient?

It's rated Fair because its main job is adjusting and buffering pH, not delivering direct skin benefits, and any moisturizing effect depends on the rest of the formula. It can irritate, especially in leave-on products or at higher concentrations and pH, which is what holds the rating back.

Products with Tetrahydroxypropyl Ethylenediamine

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