Laureth-5 Carboxylic Acid

What is Laureth-5 Carboxylic Acid?

Laureth-5 Carboxylic Acid is a synthetic anionic surfactant derived from lauryl alcohol, a fatty alcohol from coconut or palm kernel oil, ethoxylated with five ethylene oxide units and then carboxylated to add a carboxylic acid group. This modification enhances its water solubility and mildness compared to traditional sulfates. Commonly found in rinse-off personal care products like shampoos, conditioners, body washes, and facial cleansers, it functions by lowering the surface tension of water, enabling it to mix with oils and dirt. It forms micelles that encapsulate impurities, allowing them to be rinsed away easily while producing a creamy lather. Its gentle profile makes it suitable for everyday cleansing formulations, particularly those targeting sensitive skin areas, without overly stripping natural moisture.

Comedogenic Rating 0/5 Low risk of clogging pores
EWG Safety Rating 2 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.
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 effective cleansing by lifting away dirt, excess oil, and makeup.

Produces rich, stable foam for a satisfying cleansing experience.

Helps maintain skin's natural barrier through mild surfactant action.

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 seeking gentle, sulfate-free cleansers for daily use.
Those with known allergies to ethoxylated surfactants.
People with sensitive skin preferring low-irritation formulas.
People experiencing irritation from similar mild cleansers.
Users of shampoos and body washes needing good lather without dryness.
Individuals preferring completely natural, non-synthetic ingredients.

Safety Notes

  • Considered safe for use in cosmetics at typical concentrations.
  • Low potential for comedogenicity, suitable for acne-prone skin.

Frequently Asked Questions about Laureth-5 Carboxylic Acid

What does Laureth-5 Carboxylic Acid do in products?

It acts as a surfactant to lower surface tension, cleanse impurities, and create foam in cleansers and shampoos.

Is it suitable for sensitive skin?

Yes, its mild nature makes it a common choice in gentle, low-irritation formulations.

Does it cause acne?

No, it has a comedogenic rating of 0, indicating low risk of pore clogging.