Quick answer

Works as a cleansing agent in skin care formulas; Also functions as an emulsifier/stabilizer and texture enhancer; Described as a clear, colorless liquid in raw material form; Proven track record of safety in cosmetic use

Laureth-4

Updated

3,6,9,12-tetraoxatetracosan-1-ol; Dodecan-1-ol, ethoxylated; Alcohols, C12-14, ethoxylated

Purpose

Multitasks as a cleansing agent, emulsifier/stabilizer and formulary texture enhancer.

Rating

GOOD

Category

Cleansing Agent, Texture Enhancer

INCI Purpose

ANTISTATIC, FRAGRANCE, SURFACTANT - CLEANSING, SURFACTANT - EMULSIFYING

Alternative Names

At a Glance

Works as a cleansing agent in skin care formulas

Also functions as an emulsifier/stabilizer and texture enhancer

Described as a clear, colorless liquid in raw material form

Proven track record of safety in cosmetic use

Article

Laureth-4 is a form of lauryl alcohol (a non-sensitizing fatty alcohol derived from coconut oil) that can function as a cleansing agent, emulsifier/stabilizer, and formulary texture enhancer. You can find this ingredient in all kinds of skin care products, including cleansers, toners, serums, and other leave-on treatments.

The number 4 correlates with the viscosity of this ingredient. The higher the laureth’s numerical value, the greater the viscosity, eventually leading to white, waxy solids. Laureth-4 is described as a clear, colorless liquid. It can be plant-derived or made synthetically, with both forms producing equivalent results.

Laureth-4 has a proven track record of safety in cosmetics. In 2012, the Cosmetic Ingredient Review Expert Panel reaffirmed its safety status. Despite misinformation found on the Internet, there’s no substantiated evidence that this ingredient is problematic for oily skin.

References