Laureth-7 Citrate

What is Laureth-7 Citrate?

Laureth-7 Citrate is a synthetic non-ionic surfactant created by reacting lauryl alcohol with seven units of ethylene oxide to form laureth-7, followed by esterification with citric acid. This process yields a versatile ingredient primarily featured in rinse-off cosmetics such as shampoos, body washes, facial cleansers, and conditioners. It works by decreasing the surface tension between water, oils, and soils, which allows it to emulsify impurities, generate stable foam, and rinse cleanly. The citrate moiety enhances its mildness profile compared to harsher surfactants, helping maintain skin's natural barrier during cleansing. Commonly incorporated at low levels, it supports clear, lightweight formulas that effectively remove dirt and excess sebum without excessive drying, making it a staple in everyday personal care products for broad compatibility.

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 dirt and oil removal through micelle formation.

Promotes rich, stable lather in shampoos and body washes for satisfying cleanse.

Helps emulsify oils for easy rinsing, leaving skin feeling clean and balanced.

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 surfactants in daily cleansers.
Those with known allergies to ethoxylated ingredients.
People with normal to oily skin needing non-comedogenic options.
People sensitive to citric acid derivatives.
Users of foam-based products like shampoos for gentle hair and scalp care.
Individuals preferring completely natural or preservative-free formulas.

Safety Notes

  • Rated low hazard by safety assessments with good skin compatibility.
  • Minimal irritation potential in rinse-off products at typical use levels.

Frequently Asked Questions about Laureth-7 Citrate

What makes Laureth-7 Citrate mild?

Its citrate ester structure reduces irritation potential while enabling effective cleansing.

Is it safe for sensitive skin?

Safety reviews indicate low irritation risk in rinse-off products.

Does it cause breakouts?

It has a comedogenic rating of zero, unlikely to clog pores.