Ingredient review
TEA-Myristaminopropionate
INCI: TEA-MYRISTAMINOPROPIONATE
A gentle surfactant that helps create a rich, creamy lather while being less stripping than many common cleansers.
In plain English
TEA-Myristaminopropionate is a synthetic surfactant, which means it helps water mix with oil and dirt so they can be rinsed away. It is often added to cleansers to make the foam feel creamier and softer, and it is considered milder than traditional sulfates like sodium lauryl sulfate. This makes it a good choice for people with sensitive or dry skin who still want a satisfying lather.
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
- synthetic
- Evidence
- moderate
- Irritation
- low
- Clogging risk
- low
Quick decision guide
Useful, but context matters
TEA-Myristaminopropionate 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-Myristaminopropionate.
- 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-Myristaminopropionate is a salt formed from myristic acid (a fatty acid found in coconut oil) and triethanolamine. It belongs to a class of surfactants known as amino acid derivatives, which are known for their mildness.
How it works
In a cleanser, it lowers the surface tension between water and oil, allowing dirt and sebum to be emulsified and washed away. Its molecular structure also helps stabilize foam, giving a rich, creamy lather that feels gentle on the skin.
Pros
Gentle on skin
This surfactant is much less likely to strip the skin's natural moisture barrier compared to sulfates, making it ideal for daily use on sensitive or dry skin.
Enhances foam quality
It improves the texture and creaminess of the lather, giving a more pleasant cleansing experience without harshness.
Cons and cautions
Less effective for heavy oil removal
Because it is mild, it may not remove heavy makeup or very oily residues as effectively as stronger surfactants, often requiring a double cleanse.
Synthetic origin
It is manufactured in a lab, which may be a drawback for consumers seeking exclusively natural or plant-derived ingredients.
Best for
- People with dry or sensitive skin who want a gentle cleanser
- Anyone who prefers a creamy, non-stripping lather
Use caution if
- Those who strictly avoid synthetic ingredients
- Individuals with known sensitivity to triethanolamine (rare)
Usage tips
Safety summary
TEA-Myristaminopropionate is considered safe for use in rinse-off cosmetics at typical concentrations. It has a low irritation and sensitization potential. The ingredient is not associated with significant health risks when used as intended.
Research notes
Safety assessments by cosmetic ingredient review panels have found this surfactant to be safe in rinse-off formulations. Its mildness is supported by comparative studies with traditional sulfates, though independent clinical data is limited.
Common label clues
- Typical concentration
- Typically 1–5% in rinse-off products
- Regulatory status
- Approved for use in cosmetics in the EU, US, and most major markets. No specific restrictions beyond general cosmetic safety requirements.
- Common uses
- Facial cleansers, Body washes, Shampoos, Shower gels
- Environmental note
- As a synthetic surfactant, its biodegradability is moderate. It is not known to be a significant environmental concern at typical use levels.
Good to know
- Often found in 'sulfate-free' cleanser formulations.
- Can help reduce the irritation potential of stronger surfactants when used in a blend.
Common questions
What is TEA-Myristaminopropionate in beauty products?
TEA-Myristaminopropionate is a synthetic surfactant, which means it helps water mix with oil and dirt so they can be rinsed away. It is often added to cleansers to make the foam feel creamier and softer, and it is considered milder than traditional sulfates like sodium lauryl sulfate. This makes it a good choice for people with sensitive or dry skin who still want a satisfying lather.
What does TEA-Myristaminopropionate do in a beauty product?
In a cleanser, it lowers the surface tension between water and oil, allowing dirt and sebum to be emulsified and washed away. Its molecular structure also helps stabilize foam, giving a rich, creamy lather that feels gentle on the skin.
Is TEA-Myristaminopropionate safe for most people?
TEA-Myristaminopropionate is considered safe for use in rinse-off cosmetics at typical concentrations. It has a low irritation and sensitization potential. The ingredient is not associated with significant health risks when used as intended.
Who should be careful with TEA-Myristaminopropionate?
Those who strictly avoid synthetic ingredients Individuals with known sensitivity to triethanolamine (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.