Magnesium Laureth Sulfate

Benefits
Cleansing

What is Magnesium Laureth Sulfate?

Magnesium Laureth Sulfate is a synthetic anionic surfactant produced by ethoxylating lauryl alcohol (typically 1-3 ethylene oxide units), sulfating the result, and neutralizing with magnesium hydroxide. This creates a water-soluble salt effective in rinse-off personal care products such as shampoos, conditioners, body washes, and facial cleansers. It works by lowering water's surface tension, enabling better spreading and penetration to lift away dirt, excess sebum, and residues. The ethoxylation process softens its action compared to harsher sulfates, while the magnesium counterion may enhance mildness by reducing skin-drying effects. In formulations, it stabilizes emulsions, boosts foam volume and stability, and supports overall product performance without compromising rinseability. Commonly used at levels suitable for daily cleansing routines.

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.

Benefits

Provides thorough cleansing by emulsifying oils and removing impurities.

Generates rich, stable lather for an enjoyable washing experience.

Supports formulation stability 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
Individuals with normal or oily skin and hair needing effective daily cleansing.
Those with extremely sensitive skin prone to surfactant irritation.
Users of foaming rinse-off products like shampoos and shower gels.
Individuals preferring completely sulfate-free formulations.
People seeking budget-friendly surfactants in personal care routines.
People experiencing dryness from similar cleansing agents.

Safety Notes

  • Rated low to moderate concern (1-3) by EWG based on available data.
  • Non-comedogenic with a rating of 0, unlikely to clog pores.

Frequently Asked Questions about Magnesium Laureth Sulfate

What is Magnesium Laureth Sulfate?

An anionic surfactant from ethoxylated lauryl alcohol sulfated with magnesium, used for foaming and cleansing in rinse-off products.

Is it irritating to skin?

Generally low irritation potential, especially compared to non-ethoxylated sulfates.

Safe for daily use?

Considered safe in cosmetics at typical concentrations in rinse-off applications.