Ingredient review
TEA-Tridecylbenzenesulfonate
INCI: TEA-Tridecylbenzenesulfonate
An effective synthetic cleanser that can be drying or irritating for sensitive skin, but is generally safe in rinse-off formulas.
In plain English
TEA-Tridecylbenzenesulfonate is a man-made cleansing ingredient that helps water mix with oil and dirt so they can be rinsed away. It's the kind of ingredient that makes a cleanser foam up nicely. Because it can strip some of the skin's natural oils, people with dry or sensitive skin may find it too harsh for daily use, especially in leave-on products.
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-Tridecylbenzenesulfonate 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-Tridecylbenzenesulfonate.
- 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 anionic surfactant, meaning it has a negative charge that helps it lift and remove oily dirt and sebum from the skin and hair. It is often used as a primary or secondary cleansing agent in rinse-off products.
How it works
It reduces the surface tension between water and oil, allowing water to penetrate oily residues and wash them away. In a cleanser, it creates foam and helps suspend dirt so it can be rinsed off easily.
Pros
Strong cleanser
Effectively removes excess oil, makeup, and impurities, leaving skin feeling clean.
Good foam
Creates a rich, satisfying lather that many people associate with a thorough cleanse.
Cons and cautions
Potential irritation
Can cause stinging, redness, or dryness, especially for sensitive skin types or with frequent use.
Stripping effect
May remove too much of the skin's natural oils, leading to a tight, uncomfortable feeling after washing.
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 eczema-prone skin
- Anyone using leave-on products where this ingredient might stay on the skin
Usage tips
Safety summary
Generally recognized as safe for use in rinse-off cosmetics at typical concentrations. However, it can cause mild to moderate skin irritation in sensitive individuals or with prolonged contact. Avoid contact with eyes.
Research notes
Limited peer-reviewed studies specifically on TEA-Tridecylbenzenesulfonate, but it is structurally similar to other anionic surfactants that have been well-studied for skin irritation and cleansing efficacy. Safety assessments by cosmetic ingredient review panels consider it safe when formulated properly.
Common label clues
- Typical concentration
- Typically 1–10% in rinse-off products
- Regulatory status
- Approved for use in cosmetics in the US, EU, and many other regions, with typical concentration limits for rinse-off products.
- Common uses
- Facial cleansers, Body washes, Shampoos, Hand soaps
- Environmental note
- As a synthetic surfactant, it may have moderate environmental persistence; however, it is generally considered biodegradable under standard conditions.
Good to know
- This ingredient is often found in products labeled 'deep cleansing' or 'for oily skin'.
- It is not a sulfate (like SLS or SLES), but it can still be drying for some skin types.
Common questions
What is TEA-Tridecylbenzenesulfonate in beauty products?
TEA-Tridecylbenzenesulfonate is a man-made cleansing ingredient that helps water mix with oil and dirt so they can be rinsed away. It's the kind of ingredient that makes a cleanser foam up nicely. Because it can strip some of the skin's natural oils, people with dry or sensitive skin may find it too harsh for daily use, especially in leave-on products.
What does TEA-Tridecylbenzenesulfonate do in a beauty product?
It reduces the surface tension between water and oil, allowing water to penetrate oily residues and wash them away. In a cleanser, it creates foam and helps suspend dirt so it can be rinsed off easily.
Is TEA-Tridecylbenzenesulfonate safe for most people?
Generally recognized as safe for use in rinse-off cosmetics at typical concentrations. However, it can cause mild to moderate skin irritation in sensitive individuals or with prolonged contact. Avoid contact with eyes.
Who should be careful with TEA-Tridecylbenzenesulfonate?
Individuals with dry, sensitive, or eczema-prone skin Anyone using leave-on products where this ingredient might stay on the skin
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.