Used as a pH adjuster and buffering agent in cosmetic and personal care formulations, particularly in hair and skin care products. It helps stabilize the pH to maintain product efficacy and skin compatibility. Its tertiary amine structure allows it to act as a mild base, making it suitable for emulsification and improving the spreadability of creams and lotions. Also functions as a building block in the synthesis of surfactants and other specialty chemicals due to its reactive hydroxyl and amine groups.