PEG-12 Laurate

What is PEG-12 Laurate?

PEG-12 Laurate is a synthetic non-ionic surfactant formed by esterifying lauric acid—a saturated fatty acid sourced from coconut or palm kernel oils—with polyethylene glycol containing approximately 12 ethylene oxide units. This results in a hydrophilic molecule with an average molecular weight around 580 Da. Commonly found in rinse-off products like shampoos, shower gels, facial cleansers, and makeup removers, as well as leave-on items such as lotions and creams, it functions primarily by decreasing the surface tension of liquids. This property allows it to effectively disperse oils and dirt in water for cleansing. As an emulsifying agent, it creates a stable interface between immiscible oil and water phases, promoting uniform blending and preventing separation, which contributes to smooth, consistent product textures in emulsions.

Comedogenic Rating 0/5 Low risk of clogging pores
EWG Safety Rating 2-4 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.
Emulsifying agent
Enables stable mixing of oil and water phases by forming an interfacial film, helping create lotions, creams, and cleansers with consistent texture.

Benefits

Facilitates gentle removal of oils and impurities through reduced surface tension.

Helps maintain stable mixtures of oil and water for even product application.

Supports light foaming action in cleansing formulations.

Who It's For

A quick guide for who this ingredient may suit (and who should be cautious).

Who May Benefit Who Should Avoid
Users of daily shampoos and body washes needing reliable cleansing.
Those sensitive to ethoxylated ingredients.
Individuals preferring non-comedogenic ingredients in skincare.
Individuals avoiding synthetic surfactants.
People seeking stable lotions and creams without phase separation.
Users with allergies to coconut-derived components.

Safety Notes

  • EWG hazard score ranges from 2 to 4, indicating low to moderate concern.
  • Rated non-comedogenic with a score of 0.

Frequently Asked Questions about PEG-12 Laurate

What does PEG-12 Laurate do in products?

It lowers surface tension for cleansing and stabilizes oil-water mixes as an emulsifier.

Is PEG-12 Laurate comedogenic?

It has a comedogenic rating of 0, suitable for acne-prone skin.

What is the EWG rating for PEG-12 Laurate?

EWG scores it between 2 and 4, reflecting low to moderate overall hazard.