Ingredient review
Dilaureth-10 Phosphate
INCI: DILAURETH-10 PHOSPHATE
A gentle synthetic surfactant that effectively cleanses without stripping the skin's natural moisture barrier.
In plain English
Dilaureth-10 Phosphate is a synthetic ingredient that helps cleansers and washes remove dirt and oil from your skin. It works by allowing water and oil to mix, so impurities can be rinsed away easily. Because it is mild, it is less likely to leave your skin feeling tight or dry compared to harsher cleansers.
Review score
Safety, usefulness, and evidence
Potentially useful with some tradeoffs
The evidence base is useful, but some claims depend heavily on the formula.
Risk flags are low for most users, though the finished product can still irritate.
- Source
- synthetic
- Evidence
- moderate
- Irritation
- low
- Clogging risk
- low
Quick decision guide
Useful, but context matters
Dilaureth-10 Phosphate is generally a lower-concern ingredient when the full formula suits your skin.
Plain-English read
Treat this as a practical screening step before you compare products that contain this ingredient.
- Step 1Start with the score, then check the irritation and clogging risk before judging Dilaureth-10 Phosphate.
- Step 2Use the "Best for" and "Use caution if" sections to match the ingredient to your skin, not just to a marketing claim.
- 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
lowLess likely to sting, burn, or bother most users, though sensitive skin can still react.
Clogging risk
lowLess likely to feel heavy or contribute to clogged pores for most skin types.
Evidence level
moderateThere is useful support, but formula details and claim strength still matter.
What it is
Dilaureth-10 Phosphate is a phosphate ester surfactant derived from lauryl alcohol and ethylene oxide. It is a synthetic compound designed to be a gentle cleansing agent.
How it works
It reduces the surface tension between oil and water, allowing them to blend. This helps lift dirt, sebum, and makeup from the skin so they can be washed away with water. Its mild nature means it cleans without over-stripping the skin's natural oils.
Pros
Mild on skin
Unlike harsh sulfates, this surfactant cleans effectively without leaving skin feeling tight or stripped.
Good for sensitive skin
Its low irritation profile makes it suitable for those with easily irritated or reactive skin.
Cons and cautions
Synthetic ingredient
It is man-made, which may be a concern for those seeking fully natural or organic formulations.
Potential ethoxylation byproducts
As an ethoxylated compound, trace amounts of 1,4-dioxane can form during manufacturing, though levels are typically very low and regulated.
Best for
- People with normal to dry skin
- Those who prefer mild, non-stripping cleansers
Use caution if
- Individuals with known sensitivity to ethoxylated ingredients
Usage tips
Safety summary
Dilaureth-10 Phosphate is considered safe for use in cosmetics at typical concentrations. It is a mild surfactant with low irritation potential. The main concern is the possible presence of 1,4-dioxane, a byproduct of ethoxylation, but levels are tightly controlled by quality manufacturing.
Research notes
Research supports the safety of phosphate ester surfactants in personal care. The Cosmetic Ingredient Review (CIR) panel has reviewed similar ingredients and found them safe when formulated properly. No major safety issues have been reported for Dilaureth-10 Phosphate specifically.
Common label clues
- Typical concentration
- 1–10% in rinse-off products
- Regulatory status
- Approved for use in cosmetics in the US, EU, and other major markets. Manufacturers are expected to keep 1,4-dioxane levels within safe limits.
- Common uses
- Cleansers, Facial washes, Shampoos, Body washes
- Environmental note
- As a synthetic surfactant, its biodegradability varies. Some phosphate esters can break down in the environment, but full impact depends on formulation and disposal.
Good to know
- Often used in sulfate-free cleansers.
- Listed on ingredient labels as DILAURETH-10 PHOSPHATE.
Common questions
What is Dilaureth-10 Phosphate in beauty products?
Dilaureth-10 Phosphate is a synthetic ingredient that helps cleansers and washes remove dirt and oil from your skin. It works by allowing water and oil to mix, so impurities can be rinsed away easily. Because it is mild, it is less likely to leave your skin feeling tight or dry compared to harsher cleansers.
What does Dilaureth-10 Phosphate do in a beauty product?
It reduces the surface tension between oil and water, allowing them to blend. This helps lift dirt, sebum, and makeup from the skin so they can be washed away with water. Its mild nature means it cleans without over-stripping the skin's natural oils.
Is Dilaureth-10 Phosphate safe for most people?
Dilaureth-10 Phosphate is considered safe for use in cosmetics at typical concentrations. It is a mild surfactant with low irritation potential. The main concern is the possible presence of 1,4-dioxane, a byproduct of ethoxylation, but levels are tightly controlled by quality manufacturing.
Who should be careful with Dilaureth-10 Phosphate?
Individuals with known sensitivity to ethoxylated ingredients
Research sources
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.