Laneth-15

Benefits
Cleansing

What is Laneth-15?

Laneth-15 is a polyethylene glycol ether derived from lanolin alcohols, which are extracted from sheep wool grease. This ethoxylation process adds 15 units of ethylene oxide, creating a water-soluble, non-ionic surfactant. Commonly found in shampoos, body washes, lotions, and creams, it works by lowering surface tension to lift dirt and oils during cleansing. As an emulsifier, it forms a protective layer around oil droplets in water-based mixtures, preventing separation for smooth textures. It also modifies viscosity, ensuring products spread evenly and feel comfortable on skin without being too runny or thick. This multifunctional role supports stable, user-friendly formulations in daily personal care routines.

Comedogenic Rating 0/5 Low risk of clogging pores
EWG Safety Rating 1 View on EWG →

Roles in Formulation

This ingredient serves the following purposes in cosmetic formulations:

Surfactant
Lowers surface tension to enable cleansing, emulsifying, and foaming; central to shampoos, body washes, and many emulsions and micellar systems.
Emulsifying agent
Enables stable mixing of oil and water phases by forming an interfacial film, helping create lotions, creams, and cleansers with consistent texture.
Viscosity controlling agent
Adjusts thickness to the desired level for stability and usability, improving dispensing, suspension, and texture across many formulation types.

Benefits

Delivers gentle cleansing by reducing surface tension to remove impurities.

Stabilizes oil-water mixtures in lotions and cleansers for consistent application.

Adjusts product thickness for better texture and easy dispensing.

Who It's For

A quick guide for who this ingredient may suit (and who should be cautious).

Who May Benefit Who Should Avoid
Individuals preferring mild surfactants in everyday cleansers and washes.
Those with known lanolin or wool-derived ingredient sensitivities.
Users of emulsified products like moisturizers needing stable formulas.
People experiencing reactions to ethoxylated compounds.
People seeking viscosity-balanced textures in shampoos and conditioners.
Individuals with wool alcohol allergies.

Safety Notes

  • Rated low hazard by independent safety assessments.
  • Considered safe for cosmetic use in reviewed concentrations.

Frequently Asked Questions about Laneth-15

What is Laneth-15?

A non-ionic surfactant from lanolin alcohols ethoxylated with 15 ethylene oxide units, used in cleansers and emulsions.

Is Laneth-15 safe for skin?

Evaluated as low hazard and safe for use in cosmetics by safety reviews.

Does Laneth-15 cause irritation?

Typically mild with low irritation potential in formulations.