For children 5 years and older, this ingredient can cause skin irritation and allergic reactions in some kids. There is also a known worry about possible contamination with nitrosamines in some products. Overall risk is lower than for babies and toddlers, but caution is still needed.
When using products on school-age children (children, kids, tweens): - Prefer products made for kids or rinse-off products (shampoos, body washes) rather than leave-on creams or lotions that contain this ingredient. - Do a small patch test on the child’s forearm and wait 24–48 hours before regular use. - Avoid using on broken, scraped, or inflamed skin (including eczema) and stop if redness, itching or swelling appears. - Choose products from reputable brands and, if possible, those that state they control nitrosamine contamination or meet regional limits. - If your child has a history of sensitive skin or allergies, consider avoiding products with this ingredient and ask your pediatrician or dermatologist for alternatives.
Watch for signs of skin irritation or allergic reaction (redness, itching, swelling). The main reasons for concern are documented skin allergy risk and the potential for nitrosamine contamination; these concerns come from regulatory and scientific reviews (for example, Cosmetic Ingredient Review, Association of Occupational and Environmental Clinics, Environment Canada and other agency findings). Also note that some regions limit how this ingredient may be used or how much may be present, and leave-on products are more likely to be restricted than rinse-off products.
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This ingredient has the following documented risks:
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This ingredient may also be listed as:
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This ingredient is found in the following products:
This list shows products that contain Triethanolamine or its alternative names.
Scientific research related to this ingredient:
These research articles provide scientific evidence about Triethanolamine safety and effects.
Use caution with Triethanolamine for 5+ year old children. Some safety concerns have been identified.
Could weaken or confuse immune system.
Can cause skin redness, itchiness, or rashes—especially on sensitive baby skin.
Can make breathing issues like asthma worse in babies and kids.
Linked to triggering or worsening eczema and similar skin conditions.
May harm organs like liver, kidneys, or lungs with repeated use.
Banned or heavily restricted in one or more countries.
Connected to cancer risk with long-term or repeated exposure.
Triethanolamine is commonly found in skincare products, cosmetics, and topical applications. Always check ingredient labels before use.
The appropriate age depends on the specific ingredient properties and concentration. This analysis is for 5+ year old children. Use the age selector above to check other ages.
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