What Is Tea-Sulfate?
Tea-Sulfate is the cosmetic name for bis[tris(hydroxyethyl)ammonium] sulphate, a salt formed when triethanolamine reacts with sulfuric acid. In simple terms it is a synthetically produced compound that helps keep the acidity of a product in the right range so skin feels comfortable. Because it is made from widely available industrial chemicals it is consistent in quality and easy to source, which is why manufacturers favor it.
The cosmetic industry began using Tea-Sulfate in the mid-20th century when formulators realized that balancing pH was key to creating stable lotions and cleansers. Over time it became a go-to option thanks to its mildness compared with stronger mineral bases. Production involves carefully adding sulfuric acid to a cooled solution of triethanolamine, then purifying the resulting salt to remove excess reactants and water.
You will most often spot Tea-Sulfate in facial cleansers, lightweight moisturizers, sheet masks, leave-on serums, hair conditioners and the occasional anti-aging cream. Anywhere a steady pH is needed to protect delicate active ingredients, this buffering agent earns its place on the label.
Tea-Sulfate’s Cosmetic Benefits/Uses
In skincare and hair care formulas Tea-Sulfate plays one clear role that brings several practical benefits.
Buffering: Tea-Sulfate keeps the product’s pH within a narrow, skin-friendly range. A stable pH helps active ingredients perform as intended, prevents irritation that can occur when a formula is too acidic or too alkaline and prolongs shelf life by discouraging microbial growth that thrives outside the ideal pH window.
Who Can Use Tea-Sulfate
Because Tea-Sulfate is primarily a pH buffer rather than an active treatment, it tends to suit most skin types, including dry, normal, combination, oily and even sensitive skin. It does not clog pores or leave a heavy film, so acne-prone users generally tolerate it well. Extremely reactive or allergy-prone skin could still react to any new ingredient, so heightened caution is sensible, but there is no group that should automatically avoid Tea-Sulfate based on skin type alone.
The compound is synthetically produced from triethanolamine and sulfuric acid, neither of which come from animal sources. No animal-derived processing aids are required, making Tea-Sulfate acceptable for both vegetarians and vegans.
Current research shows no evidence that topical Tea-Sulfate poses a risk to pregnant or breastfeeding women. This information is not medical advice. Anyone who is expecting or nursing should check with a physician before adding new skincare, just to be safe.
Tea-Sulfate does not increase the skin’s sensitivity to sunlight, so it is not considered photosensitizing. Routine daytime sunscreen use is still recommended for overall skin health.
Potential Side Effects/Adverse Reactions
Responses to any cosmetic ingredient vary from person to person. The effects listed below are possible but uncommon when Tea-Sulfate is included at normal use levels in a well-formulated product.
- Mild stinging or redness when applied to broken or highly sensitive skin
- Temporary dryness or tightness if the formula is left on skin for an extended period without additional moisturizers
- Allergic contact dermatitis in rare cases for individuals allergic to triethanolamine derivatives
- Eye irritation if a cleanser or lotion accidentally gets into the eyes
If any persistent irritation, swelling or rash occurs discontinue use and consult a healthcare professional
Comedogenic Rating
Rating: 1 / 5
Tea-Sulfate is a small water-soluble salt that dissolves completely in formulas then rinses off skin without leaving an oily film. It does not sit in pores or create a barrier that traps sebum, which is why its clogging potential is considered very low. For people prone to acne or breakouts this ingredient is generally a safe choice.
Because Tea-Sulfate mainly adjusts pH and is used at modest levels, even products that stay on the skin rarely contain enough of it to cause congestion. Its rating could edge higher only if paired with heavy occlusives that already have higher comedogenic scores.
Summary
Tea-Sulfate acts as a buffering agent, keeping skincare and hair care products in the sweet spot for skin-friendly pH. By stabilizing acidity it protects sensitive actives, helps formulas stay gentle and discourages microbes that might spoil a product.
While not a headline ingredient, Tea-Sulfate is quietly popular with chemists because it is reliable, affordable and easy to source. You will often find it in cleansers, light lotions and masks where stable pH is key.
Current data shows Tea-Sulfate is low risk for irritation or acne, which makes it suitable for most users. Still, skin can be unpredictable so it is wise to patch test any new product that contains Tea-Sulfate before using it fully.