Ingredient review

Ammonium Laureth-5 Sulfate

INCI: AMMONIUM LAURETH-5 SULFATE

A milder alternative to sodium lauryl sulfate, but can still be drying for sensitive skin.

beautyskincarecleanser

In plain English

Ammonium Laureth-5 Sulfate is a cleansing ingredient that helps shampoo and body wash foam up and remove dirt and oil. It is considered gentler than some other sulfates because it has a larger molecule that doesn't penetrate the skin as deeply, but it can still strip natural oils if used too frequently.

Quick decision guide

Useful, but context matters

Ammonium Laureth-5 Sulfate can be useful, but watch for some irritation potential.

Plain-English read

Treat this as a practical screening step before you compare products that contain this ingredient.

  1. Step 1Start with the score, then check the irritation and clogging risk before judging Ammonium Laureth-5 Sulfate.
  2. Step 2Use the "Best for" and "Use caution if" sections to match the ingredient to your skin, not just to a marketing claim.
  3. Step 3If a product stings, breaks you out, or worsens irritation, judge the finished formula and stop using it even if the ingredient scores well.

Score terms in plain English

Irritation risk

moderate

Can bother some users, especially with frequent use, damaged skin, or strong companion ingredients.

Clogging risk

low

Less likely to feel heavy or contribute to clogged pores for most skin types.

Evidence level

moderate

There is useful support, but formula details and claim strength still matter.

What it is

A synthetic anionic surfactant derived from lauryl alcohol, ethoxylated with an average of 5 moles of ethylene oxide, and neutralized with ammonium hydroxide.

How it works

It works by reducing the surface tension between water and oil, allowing oils and dirt to be rinsed away. The ethoxylation (the 'Laureth-5' part) makes it milder than non-ethoxylated sulfates like ammonium lauryl sulfate.

Pros

Gentler than standard sulfates

The ethoxylation reduces irritation potential compared to ammonium lauryl sulfate, making it a better choice for daily use on normal skin.

Effective foaming

Creates a rich lather that many people associate with a satisfying cleansing experience, without the heavy residue of some non-sulfate alternatives.

Cons and cautions

Potential for dryness

Even though milder, it can still strip the skin's natural moisture barrier if used too often or in high concentrations, leading to tightness or flakiness.

Contaminant concern

The manufacturing process can generate trace amounts of 1,4-dioxane, a potential carcinogen. Reputable brands purify their ingredients to keep levels well below safety limits.

Best for

  • People with normal to oily skin or hair
  • Those looking for a sulfate that is gentler than SLS or SLES

Use caution if

  • Individuals with very dry, sensitive, or eczema-prone skin
  • Those who prefer sulfate-free formulations

Usage tips

Use in rinse-off products only; avoid leave-on formulations.
Follow with a moisturizer or conditioner to replenish hydration.
If you have sensitive skin, patch test a new product containing this ingredient first.

Safety summary

Generally safe for use in rinse-off products at typical concentrations. The main concern is skin dryness and irritation for sensitive individuals. Trace contaminants like 1,4-dioxane are regulated and kept low in quality products.

Research notes

Studies show that ethoxylated sulfates like Ammonium Laureth-5 Sulfate are less irritating than non-ethoxylated versions. The CIR panel has reviewed it and found it safe with proper formulation. No significant long-term health risks have been identified in cosmetic use.

Common label clues

Typical concentration
1–15% in rinse-off products
Regulatory status
Approved for use in cosmetics by the FDA and the European Commission. The Cosmetic Ingredient Review (CIR) panel has deemed it safe when formulated to be non-irritating.
Common uses
Shampoos, Body washes, Facial cleansers, Liquid soaps
Environmental note
As a synthetic surfactant, it is not readily biodegradable in all conditions. However, many wastewater treatment plants can break it down.

Good to know

  • Ammonium Laureth-5 Sulfate is often used in 'gentle' or 'daily' shampoos because it balances cleansing power with mildness.
  • It is not the same as Ammonium Lauryl Sulfate (ALS), which is harsher and less ethoxylated.

Common questions

What is Ammonium Laureth-5 Sulfate in beauty products?

Ammonium Laureth-5 Sulfate is a cleansing ingredient that helps shampoo and body wash foam up and remove dirt and oil. It is considered gentler than some other sulfates because it has a larger molecule that doesn't penetrate the skin as deeply, but it can still strip natural oils if used too frequently.

What does Ammonium Laureth-5 Sulfate do in a beauty product?

It works by reducing the surface tension between water and oil, allowing oils and dirt to be rinsed away. The ethoxylation (the 'Laureth-5' part) makes it milder than non-ethoxylated sulfates like ammonium lauryl sulfate.

Is Ammonium Laureth-5 Sulfate safe for most people?

Generally safe for use in rinse-off products at typical concentrations. The main concern is skin dryness and irritation for sensitive individuals. Trace contaminants like 1,4-dioxane are regulated and kept low in quality products.

Who should be careful with Ammonium Laureth-5 Sulfate?

Individuals with very dry, sensitive, or eczema-prone skin Those who prefer sulfate-free formulations

Research sources

Cosmetic Ingredient Review (CIR) Safety AssessmentOpenFDA Cosmetics Ingredients DatabaseOpen

Ingredient reviews are educational and are not medical advice. Patch test new products and ask a licensed clinician about persistent irritation, allergies, pregnancy-specific questions, or diagnosed skin conditions.