TEA-Cocoate
AKA “TEA Coconut Oil Derivative, Triethanolamine Cocoate”
Surfactant
Ingredient Facts
TEA-Cocoate
AKA: TEA Coconut Oil Derivative, Triethanolamine Cocoate
Surfactant · Cleansing · EWG: 4
Plant-Derived
Cleanser
Emulsifier
Plant Oil
Not Clean
Fatty acids, coco, compds. with triethanolamine
CAS #
61790-64-5
See origin →
Functions
Cleansing
Makes oil and water mix so dirt, makeup, and sunscreen can actually be washed away. The reason your face wash foams.
Foaming
Cleansing
Makes oil and water mix so dirt, makeup, and sunscreen can actually be washed away. The reason your face wash foams.
Emulsifying
Forces oil and water to stay mixed instead of separating into layers. The unsung hero holding your lotion together.
Removes Impurities
Creates Lather
Cleansing Surfactant
Emulsifier
Removes dirt and impurities
Creates cleansing foam
Lifts away dirt and oil
Mixes oil and water
Traditional Use
Created by saponifying coconut oil fatty acids with triethanolamine in the 20th century. Developed as a gentler, plant-derived cleansing agent to replace harsher synthetic surfactants.
Skin Types
●all-skin-types
Best For
General
Pregnancy & Breastfeeding Safe
Yes
Allergen Warning
⚠️ Tree Nut (Coconut)
EWG
4
CIR
Safe as used
Pregnancy
Yes
Restricted By
CIR Safety Findings
Not a Sensitizer
medical-approval
all-shades-safe
Regulatory Agencies
Verified Jun 2026
Data: CosIng · EWG · CIR