TEA-Lauryl Sulfate

CAS 139-96-8 · TEA Lauryl Sulfate · Triethanolamine lauryl sulfate · TEA-dodecyl sulfate

A triethanolamine-salt cleansing surfactant whose triethanolamine base can act as a precursor to carcinogenic nitrosamines if nitrosating agents are present.

medium confidence

Researched July 7, 2026

Specimen 0201TEA-Lauryl Sulfate

Concerns

Triethanolamine (the amine base of this surfactant) is a precursor that can react with nitrosating agents to form N-nitrosamines such as N-nitrosodiethanolamine, which are carcinogenic; the study urged that amines and nitrosating agents in cosmetics be minimized to levels as low as technically feasible (Lim 2018, PMID 29694274)
In the same cosmetics risk assessment, measured triethanolamine and nitrosamine levels produced margins of exposure and safety above the concern thresholds, so no apparent safety concern was found in the specific products tested (Lim 2018, PMID 29694274)
As an anionic surfactant it also carries the lauryl-sulfate class potential for skin-barrier disruption and irritation (Salomon 2022, PMID 36856374)

Regulatory flags

⚑IARC Class: NL (triethanolamine not classified)
⚑EDC Status: Not established
⚑Regulatory: nitrosamine precursor; amine/nitrosating-agent use to be minimized
⚑Evidence Grade: C

Commonly found in

ShampooFacial cleanserBody washBubble bath

Sources & references

Last researched: July 7, 2026

Research disclaimer: This rating is based on available peer-reviewed research and regulatory assessments at the time of publication. It is not medical advice. Consult a qualified professional for personal health or skin concerns.

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