Laureth-6 Carboxylic Acid

What is Laureth-6 Carboxylic Acid?

Laureth-6 Carboxylic Acid is a synthetic anionic surfactant produced by ethoxylating lauryl alcohol with six moles of ethylene oxide and then introducing a carboxylic acid group through carboxymethylation. This structure features a hydrophobic alkyl chain paired with a hydrophilic carboxylate head, allowing it to effectively lower surface tension in aqueous solutions. Primarily used in rinse-off personal care products like shampoos, shower gels, facial cleansers, and liquid soaps, it works by forming micelles that solubilize oils, dirt, and sebum, enabling their removal during rinsing. The carboxylate functionality contributes to its milder profile compared to traditional sulfate surfactants, supporting good foaming while reducing disruption to the skin's natural moisture barrier. It also serves as an emulsifier in some formulations to blend water and oil phases stably.

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 yet gentle cleansing by lifting impurities without harsh stripping.

Produces rich, stable foam for a satisfying cleansing experience in washes and shampoos.

Supports non-comedogenic formulations, helping maintain clear pores.

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 mild, sulfate-alternative cleansers for daily use.
Those with confirmed allergies to polyethylene glycol derivatives.
Users of shampoos and body washes needing reliable foaming action.
Individuals preferring fully natural or plant-derived surfactants only.
People with normal to combination skin types preferring balanced cleansing.
Users sensitive to any ethoxylated compounds, regardless of mildness.

Safety Notes

  • Assessed as low hazard in cosmetic applications by safety review panels.
  • Suitable for rinse-off products at standard use levels with minimal irritation risk.

Frequently Asked Questions about Laureth-6 Carboxylic Acid

What makes Laureth-6 Carboxylic Acid milder than sulfates?

Its carboxylic acid group provides softer cleansing with less potential to disrupt skin lipids.

Is it suitable for daily facial cleansing?

Yes, its low comedogenic nature fits routine use in non-stripping formulas.

Can it be found in baby products?

Appears in some mild formulations, valued for gentle foaming properties.