Laureth-20

What is Laureth-20?

Laureth-20 is a nonionic surfactant chemically known as polyoxyethylene (20) lauryl ether, produced by reacting lauryl alcohol with ethylene oxide. Found in shampoos, body washes, facial cleansers, and moisturizing lotions, it functions by reducing surface tension between liquids and solids, allowing dirt and oils to be rinsed away effectively. It stabilizes oil-in-water emulsions, preventing separation and ensuring smooth textures. Additionally, it disperses water-insoluble components like fragrances or essential oils into watery bases, creating clear solutions for toners or sprays. Its hydrophilic-lipophilic balance supports gentle foaming and improved product spreadability, making it a versatile ingredient in both rinse-off and leave-on cosmetics across haircare, skincare, and makeup removers.

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.
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.
Solubilizing agent
Helps incorporate oils and fragrance into water-based formulas by forming micro-solutions, enabling clear sprays, toners, and micellar products.

Benefits

Enhances cleansing by lifting away dirt, oil, and makeup without harshness.

Supports emulsion stability for creamy, non-separating formulas.

Improves solubility of fragrances and oils for uniform, clear products.

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 with normal to oily skin needing effective yet gentle cleansers.
Those with extreme sensitivity to ethoxylated ingredients.
Users of shampoos and body washes seeking good lather and rinseability.
Individuals concerned about potential trace impurities in unpurified sources.
People preferring stable lotions and toners with incorporated scents.
People preferring sulfate-free or fully natural formulations.

Safety Notes

  • Deemed safe for cosmetic use by regulatory reviews at typical concentrations.
  • Low comedogenic potential, unlikely to clog pores.

Frequently Asked Questions about Laureth-20

What is Laureth-20 used for?

Primarily as a surfactant for cleansing, emulsifying oils and water, and solubilizing fragrances in rinse-off and leave-on products.

Is Laureth-20 safe for daily use?

Safety evaluations confirm it is suitable at common cosmetic levels with low irritation risk.

Does Laureth-20 clog pores?

It has a comedogenic rating of 0, indicating low likelihood of pore blockage.