TEA-Lauryl Sulfate Worst Cleansing Agent No known benefits TEA-Lauryl Sulfate at a glance Also known as triethanolamine lauryl sulfate Functions as a surfactant Drying to skin and hair Significant skin irritant in high concentrations TEA-Lauryl Sulfate description TEA-lauryl sulfate, also known as triethanolamine lauryl sulfate, is a synthetic surface-active agent, or surfactant, often used in cleanser formulas. It is used far less often than ammonium or sodium sulfates or their derivatives in cosmetics, which is good, since it is known to be drying to skin, particularly when it’s the primary cleansing ingredient. In such cases, the concentration is likely to exceed 10.5%, which sets the stage for problems like skin feeling dry or tight after rinsing. In amounts above this, it is considered a significant skin irritant. The independent Cosmetics Ingredient Review has ruled that TEA-lauryl sulfate is safe as long as its concentration in products is limited. In its raw form, TEA-lauryl sulfate is a yellow, viscous liquid. It’s almost always supplied as a solo surfactant instead of being part of a surfactant blend. This is likely because other surfactants, when blended, can be just as effective without the risk of drying or irritating skin and/or hair (avoid any shampoos where TEA-lauryl sulfate is the primary surfactant). Related ingredients: Sodium Lauryl Sulfate Sulfates