Laureth-10

What is Laureth-10?

Laureth-10 is a synthetic nonionic surfactant produced by ethoxylating lauryl alcohol, a fatty alcohol from coconut or palm sources, with ten units of ethylene oxide. This process creates a hydrophilic molecule that excels in personal care products like shampoos, shower gels, facial cleansers, and light lotions. It works by reducing surface tension between liquids, oils, and water, which lifts away dirt, excess sebum, and residues during rinsing. As an emulsifier, it forms a protective layer at oil-water interfaces, preventing separation and ensuring uniform consistency in multi-phase formulations. Its mild nature suits both rinse-off cleansers needing foam and leave-on items requiring texture stability, offering versatility without the stripping effect of stronger detergents.

Comedogenic Rating 0/5 Low risk of clogging pores
EWG Safety Rating 1-3 View on EWG →
PubChem View on PubChem →

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.

Benefits

Enables thorough yet mild cleansing by emulsifying oils and dirt for easy rinse-off.

Stabilizes oil-in-water emulsions, promoting smooth, consistent product textures.

Supports non-comedogenic formulations, helping maintain clear pores in cleansers.

Who It's For

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

Who May Benefit Who Should Avoid
People with normal or oily skin seeking foaming cleansers.
Those with allergies to ethoxylated alcohols.
Users of shampoos and body washes preferring gentle surfactants.
People avoiding synthetic surfactants entirely.
Individuals using lotions that need reliable phase stability.
Sensitive skin users in products with high concentrations.

Safety Notes

  • Recognized as safe for cosmetic use in rinse-off and leave-on products.
  • Low potential for comedogenicity, suitable for most skin types.

Frequently Asked Questions about Laureth-10

What does Laureth-10 do in skincare?

It acts as a surfactant to cleanse by reducing surface tension and as an emulsifier to blend oil and water phases stably.

Is Laureth-10 suitable for acne-prone skin?

Yes, with a comedogenic rating of zero, it does not promote pore clogging.

How safe is Laureth-10 overall?

Rated low hazard by assessments, safe in typical cosmetic concentrations.