What Is Di-Tea-Palmitoyl Aspartate?
Di-Tea-Palmitoyl Aspartate is a compound derived from L-aspartic acid that has been reacted with palmitic acid and then neutralized with triethanolamine, creating a salt. Palmitic acid is a fatty acid usually sourced from palm oil while triethanolamine is synthesized from ammonia and ethylene oxide, both common in many cosmetic raw materials. The result is an ingredient that combines the skin-friendly profile of fatty acids with the solubilizing power of triethanolamine.
The use of amino-acid-based surfactants took off in the late twentieth century when formulators searched for milder alternatives to traditional soaps. Di-Tea-Palmitoyl Aspartate emerged from this trend, gaining traction in gentle facial cleansers and body washes that aim to remove dirt without stripping skin. Commercial production involves esterifying aspartic acid with palmitic acid, then neutralizing the product with triethanolamine to form a stable, water-dispersible salt.
You will most commonly spot Di-Tea-Palmitoyl Aspartate in creamy facial cleansers, moisturizing body washes, milk-type makeup removers, pampering bath foams and occasionally in rinse-off masks where a touch of extra gentleness is desired.
Di-Tea-Palmitoyl Aspartate’s Cosmetic Benefits/Uses
This ingredient serves a straightforward yet important purpose in skincare formulas.
As a cleansing agent, Di-Tea-Palmitoyl Aspartate loosens oil, dirt and leftover makeup so they can be rinsed away with water. Because it is based on an amino acid and a fatty acid, it tends to be milder than traditional sulfates, making it suitable for products aimed at sensitive or dry skin. Users benefit from a soft, conditioned feel after washing rather than the tightness that harsher surfactants can leave behind.
Who Can Use Di-Tea-Palmitoyl Aspartate
Because it is a mild, fatty acid based cleanser, Di-Tea-Palmitoyl Aspartate suits most skin types including dry, normal, combination, oily and even sensitive skin that often reacts to harsher sulfates. Extremely oily or acne prone users may find they prefer a stronger surfactant for a very deep cleanse, yet this ingredient itself is not known to clog pores.
The compound is synthesised from plant derived palmitic acid and laboratory produced triethanolamine, so it is free of animal byproducts and acceptable for both vegetarians and vegans. Those who avoid palm on sustainability grounds can look for brands that certify responsibly sourced palm oil.
Current data shows no specific concerns for women who are pregnant or breastfeeding when the ingredient is used in rinse off cosmetics. This is not medical advice and anyone who is expecting or nursing should check any skincare routine with a qualified doctor to be safe.
Di-Tea-Palmitoyl Aspartate does not induce photosensitivity, so it will not make skin more prone to sunburn. As with any surfactant, leaving it on the skin for excessively long periods can lead to dryness, so follow the product directions and rinse thoroughly.
Potential Side Effects/Adverse Reactions
Side effects from topical use of Di-Tea-Palmitoyl Aspartate can vary between individuals. The points below outline possible reactions, though they remain uncommon when the ingredient is properly formulated and used as directed.
- Mild irritation, redness or stinging on very sensitive or broken skin
- Dry or tight feeling if the cleanser is left on for too long or used too frequently
- Allergic contact dermatitis in people sensitised to triethanolamine derivatives
- Transient eye discomfort if the product accidentally gets into the eyes
If any of these reactions occur stop using the product and seek advice from a healthcare professional or dermatologist.
Comedogenic Rating
Rating: 1/5. While palmitic acid on its own can be pore clogging, converting it into the highly water-soluble salt of Di-Tea-Palmitoyl Aspartate greatly reduces its ability to sit inside follicles. Most formulas also use it in rinse-off products and at modest levels, further lowering any clogging risk. Suitable for acne-prone or breakout-prone skin in the vast majority of cases.
Because it is almost always part of a blend of multiple surfactants, the overall comedogenic profile of the finished product depends more on the rest of the formula than on this ingredient.
Summary
Di-Tea-Palmitoyl Aspartate is primarily a gentle cleansing agent that lifts away oil, dirt and makeup while leaving skin feeling soft thanks to its fatty acid backbone. Its amino acid origin keeps irritation low and its triethanolamine salt form helps it disperse easily in water so it rinses clean.
It is a niche ingredient rather than a mainstream star, showing up mostly in specialty cleansers aimed at sensitive skin or “cream to foam” textures. Even so formulators value its mildness and the conditioned after-feel it provides.
Current safety data places it in the low-risk category for topical use with only rare reports of irritation or allergy. As with any new skincare item give yourself peace of mind by patch testing before regular use.