Laureth-2

Benefits

Cleansing

What is Laureth-2?

Laureth-2 is a synthetic nonionic surfactant created by reacting lauryl alcohol, derived from natural fatty acids like coconut or palm kernel oil, with two units of ethylene oxide through ethoxylation. This process yields a molecule with a hydrophobic alkyl chain and hydrophilic polyoxyethylene head, making it amphiphilic. Primarily used in rinse-off products such as shampoos, shower gels, facial cleansers, and some leave-on emulsions like lotions, it lowers surface tension to enable dirt and oil solubilization into micelles for removal during rinsing. As an emulsifier, it positions at oil-water interfaces, forming protective films that prevent phase separation and maintain uniform texture for even application and sensory appeal.

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.

Cleansing agent

Removes dirt, oil, and impurities by lowering surface tension and forming micelles, enabling soils to be lifted and rinsed away from skin, hair, or teeth.

Benefits

Delivers mild cleansing by trapping impurities for easy rinse-off.

Stabilizes oil-water mixtures in creams and lotions for smooth consistency.

Supports foaming properties in shampoos and body washes.

Who It's For

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

Who May Benefit	Who Should Avoid
Users of daily cleansers needing gentle impurity removal.	Those with known sensitivity to ethoxylated surfactants.
Individuals preferring stable emulsion-based moisturizers.	Individuals preferring strictly natural or minimal-ingredient formulas.
People with normal skin types using foaming wash-off products.	Users of high-concentration products if irritation occurs.

Safety Notes

Evaluated as safe in cosmetics when formulated to avoid irritation.
Low comedogenic potential, unlikely to clog pores.

Frequently Asked Questions about Laureth-2

What is the main function of Laureth-2?

Acts as a surfactant for cleansing and emulsifying agent to blend oil and water in formulas.

Is Laureth-2 comedogenic?

Rated 0, indicating low likelihood of pore-clogging.

How safe is Laureth-2 for skin?

Generally low hazard with mild irritation profile in cosmetics.