Ingredient review
TEA-C11-15 Alkyl Sulfate
INCI: TEA-C11-15 Alkyl Sulfate
A strong synthetic cleanser that effectively removes dirt and oil but may be drying or irritating for sensitive skin.
In plain English
TEA-C11-15 Alkyl Sulfate is a synthetic ingredient that helps cleansers foam and lift away dirt and oil. It belongs to the sulfate family, similar to sodium lauryl sulfate, but is slightly milder. However, it can still strip the skin of its natural moisture barrier, especially with frequent use, and may cause irritation for those with sensitive or dry skin.
Review score
Safety, usefulness, and evidence
Potentially useful with some tradeoffs
The evidence base is useful, but some claims depend heavily on the formula.
Main practical flags: irritation is moderate; clogging risk is low.
- Source
- synthetic
- Evidence
- moderate
- Irritation
- moderate
- Clogging risk
- low
Quick decision guide
Useful, but context matters
TEA-C11-15 Alkyl Sulfate can be useful, but watch for some irritation potential.
Plain-English read
Treat this as a practical screening step before you compare products that contain this ingredient.
- Step 1Start with the score, then check the irritation and clogging risk before judging TEA-C11-15 Alkyl Sulfate.
- Step 2Use the "Best for" and "Use caution if" sections to match the ingredient to your skin, not just to a marketing claim.
- Step 3If a product stings, breaks you out, or worsens irritation, judge the finished formula and stop using it even if the ingredient scores well.
Score terms in plain English
Irritation risk
moderateCan bother some users, especially with frequent use, damaged skin, or strong companion ingredients.
Clogging risk
lowLess likely to feel heavy or contribute to clogged pores for most skin types.
Evidence level
moderateThere is useful support, but formula details and claim strength still matter.
What it is
A synthetic surfactant made by reacting a blend of C11-15 alcohols with sulfation and neutralizing with triethanolamine (TEA). It is a member of the alkyl sulfate family, known for strong cleansing and foaming properties.
How it works
It reduces the surface tension between water and oil, allowing water to mix with sebum and dirt so they can be rinsed away. Its negatively charged head attracts water, while its fatty tail attracts oil, creating micelles that trap impurities.
Pros
Strong cleanser
Effectively removes excess oil, makeup, and environmental grime, leaving skin feeling thoroughly clean.
Good foam
Produces a rich, bubbly lather that many people associate with a satisfying wash experience.
Cons and cautions
Can be drying
May strip the skin's natural moisture barrier, leading to tightness, flakiness, or increased sensitivity over time.
Irritation potential
For those with sensitive skin or conditions like eczema, this surfactant can cause redness, stinging, or contact irritation.
Best for
- People with oily or normal skin looking for a deep cleanse
- Those who prefer foaming cleansers
Use caution if
- Individuals with dry, sensitive, or compromised skin barriers
- Anyone with eczema or rosacea
Usage tips
Safety summary
Generally recognized as safe for use in rinse-off cosmetics at typical concentrations. However, it can cause skin irritation and dryness, especially with prolonged or frequent use. Avoid contact with eyes.
Research notes
Studies confirm that alkyl sulfates can disrupt the skin barrier and increase transepidermal water loss (TEWL) with repeated use. Mildness varies by chain length and formulation. TEA-C11-15 Alkyl Sulfate is considered less irritating than sodium lauryl sulfate but more so than gentler surfactants like coco-glucoside.
Common label clues
- Typical concentration
- Typically 5–15% in rinse-off cleansers
- Regulatory status
- Approved for use in cosmetics in the US (FDA) and EU (CosIng) at concentrations up to 15% in rinse-off products. Always follow product instructions.
- Common uses
- Shampoos, Body washes, Facial cleansers, Hand soaps
- Environmental note
- Alkyl sulfates can be slow to biodegrade in aquatic environments. Some manufacturers are moving to more eco-friendly alternatives.
Good to know
- This ingredient is often found in products labeled 'sulfate-free'? No — it is a sulfate, so check labels carefully if you avoid sulfates.
- It is more water-soluble than some other sulfates, which helps it rinse off cleanly.
Common questions
What is TEA-C11-15 Alkyl Sulfate in beauty products?
TEA-C11-15 Alkyl Sulfate is a synthetic ingredient that helps cleansers foam and lift away dirt and oil. It belongs to the sulfate family, similar to sodium lauryl sulfate, but is slightly milder. However, it can still strip the skin of its natural moisture barrier, especially with frequent use, and may cause irritation for those with sensitive or dry skin.
What does TEA-C11-15 Alkyl Sulfate do in a beauty product?
It reduces the surface tension between water and oil, allowing water to mix with sebum and dirt so they can be rinsed away. Its negatively charged head attracts water, while its fatty tail attracts oil, creating micelles that trap impurities.
Is TEA-C11-15 Alkyl Sulfate safe for most people?
Generally recognized as safe for use in rinse-off cosmetics at typical concentrations. However, it can cause skin irritation and dryness, especially with prolonged or frequent use. Avoid contact with eyes.
Who should be careful with TEA-C11-15 Alkyl Sulfate?
Individuals with dry, sensitive, or compromised skin barriers Anyone with eczema or rosacea
Research sources
Ingredient reviews are educational and are not medical advice. Patch test new products and ask a licensed clinician about persistent irritation, allergies, pregnancy-specific questions, or diagnosed skin conditions.