Tocopherol and Triethanolamine

Tocopherol and triethanolamine is a blend of vitamin E and triethanolamine, a pH-adjusting amine used in formulations. It's included for antioxidant preservation while also aiding emulsification and product stability in topical products.
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Ingredient Snapshot

Overview
A vitamin E blend that adds antioxidant protection and smooth texture.
Category
Antioxidant, Skin Conditioning
Type
Antioxidant

Ingredient Ratings

Overall Rating

Fair

Comedogenic Risk

None

Skin Benefits

Offers protective support against environmental aggressors while contributing to a smoother application experience. The overall effect can vary based on the final formula.

Uses In Skincare & Cosmetics

Often found in lotions, gels, and creams, where it refines texture and adds skin-caring benefits within the finished product.

Comedogenic Rating

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

Safety

May cause mild irritation for sensitive skin, particularly in leave-on products or higher concentrations. In some regions, use of triethanolamine is controlled to avoid nitrosamine formation, such as avoiding nitrosating agents and managing impurities.

Is Tocopherol and Triethanolamine a Good Ingredient?

It rates Fair because the antioxidant benefit comes mainly from tocopherol, while triethanolamine is primarily a helper base, so the overall skin benefit is formula-dependent. There's also a modest irritation risk from triethanolamine, along with concerns if it's improperly formulated alongside nitrosating agents.

Products with Tocopherol and Triethanolamine

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