Ingredient review
TEA-Glyceryl Dimaleate
INCI: TEA-Glyceryl Dimaleate
A gentle humectant that helps hydrate and condition skin without common irritation or clogging concerns.
In plain English
TEA-Glyceryl Dimaleate is a water-soluble ingredient that attracts moisture to the skin and helps it feel soft and smooth. It is often used in moisturizers and serums to boost hydration without leaving a greasy residue. Think of it as a helper that pulls water into the outer layer of your skin and keeps it there, similar to glycerin but with a slightly different chemical structure that may offer additional conditioning benefits.
Review score
Safety, usefulness, and evidence
Potentially useful with some tradeoffs
The evidence base is useful, but some claims depend heavily on the formula.
Risk flags are low for most users, though the finished product can still irritate.
- Source
- semi synthetic
- Evidence
- moderate
- Irritation
- low
- Clogging risk
- low
Quick decision guide
Useful, but context matters
TEA-Glyceryl Dimaleate is generally a lower-concern ingredient when the full formula suits your skin.
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-Glyceryl Dimaleate.
- 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
lowLess likely to sting, burn, or bother most users, though sensitive skin can still react.
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
TEA-Glyceryl Dimaleate is a semi-synthetic compound formed by combining glycerin, maleic acid, and triethanolamine (TEA). It belongs to the family of humectants and skin conditioners, designed to improve the water content and texture of the skin.
How it works
As a humectant, it draws moisture from the environment or deeper layers of the skin into the outermost layer (the stratum corneum). Its glyceryl backbone also allows it to form a light film on the skin, reducing water loss and leaving a smooth, non-sticky feel. The TEA component helps adjust pH and improve the ingredient's compatibility with other formula ingredients.
Pros
Gentle hydration
Provides moisture without stinging or irritation, making it suitable for sensitive skin types.
Non-greasy feel
Leaves skin feeling soft and smooth without a heavy or sticky residue, ideal for daytime use under makeup.
Cons and cautions
Modest hydration power
While effective, it may not deliver the same intense moisture boost as heavier humectants like hyaluronic acid, especially in very dry climates.
Dependence on humidity
Like many humectants, its ability to draw moisture from the air is reduced in low-humidity environments, potentially drawing water from deeper skin layers instead.
Best for
- People with normal to dry skin looking for extra hydration
- Those with sensitive skin who want a gentle humectant
Use caution if
- Individuals with known allergies to triethanolamine or maleic acid derivatives (rare)
Usage tips
Safety summary
TEA-Glyceryl Dimaleate is considered safe for cosmetic use with low irritation and comedogenic potential. It is well-tolerated by most skin types, including sensitive skin. As with any ingredient, patch testing is recommended for those with known sensitivities.
Research notes
Research on TEA-Glyceryl Dimaleate specifically is limited, but it belongs to a well-studied class of humectants and skin conditioners. Its safety profile is supported by broader ingredient safety reviews by bodies like the Cosmetic Ingredient Review (CIR).
Common label clues
- Typical concentration
- Typically used at 0.5–5% in leave-on and rinse-off products
- Regulatory status
- Approved for use in cosmetics in the EU, US, and many other regions. The Cosmetic Ingredient Review (CIR) panel has evaluated related compounds and found them safe at typical usage levels.
- Common uses
- Moisturizers, Serums, Toners, Cleansers
- Environmental note
- TEA-Glyceryl Dimaleate is semi-synthetic and biodegradable under standard conditions, though its environmental impact has not been extensively studied.
Good to know
- TEA-Glyceryl Dimaleate is often used in combination with other humectants to create a balanced hydration profile.
- It is considered safe for use in leave-on and rinse-off cosmetics at typical concentrations.
Common questions
What is TEA-Glyceryl Dimaleate in beauty products?
TEA-Glyceryl Dimaleate is a water-soluble ingredient that attracts moisture to the skin and helps it feel soft and smooth. It is often used in moisturizers and serums to boost hydration without leaving a greasy residue. Think of it as a helper that pulls water into the outer layer of your skin and keeps it there, similar to glycerin but with a slightly different chemical structure that may offer additional conditioning benefits.
What does TEA-Glyceryl Dimaleate do in a beauty product?
As a humectant, it draws moisture from the environment or deeper layers of the skin into the outermost layer (the stratum corneum). Its glyceryl backbone also allows it to form a light film on the skin, reducing water loss and leaving a smooth, non-sticky feel. The TEA component helps adjust pH and improve the ingredient's compatibility with other formula ingredients.
Is TEA-Glyceryl Dimaleate safe for most people?
TEA-Glyceryl Dimaleate is considered safe for cosmetic use with low irritation and comedogenic potential. It is well-tolerated by most skin types, including sensitive skin. As with any ingredient, patch testing is recommended for those with known sensitivities.
Who should be careful with TEA-Glyceryl Dimaleate?
Individuals with known allergies to triethanolamine or maleic acid derivatives (rare)
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.