Ingredient review
Laneth-60
INCI: LANETH-60
A gentle emulsifier derived from lanolin that helps blend oil and water in formulas, but may not suit those avoiding ethoxylated ingredients.
In plain English
Laneth-60 is a modified version of lanolin (a natural oil from sheep's wool) that has been treated with ethylene oxide to make it water-soluble. In skincare, it acts as a helper ingredient that allows oil and water to mix smoothly, creating stable creams and lotions. It also helps cleanse the skin by lifting dirt and makeup. Because it's ethoxylated, some people prefer to avoid it due to concerns about potential impurities, though it is generally considered safe at low levels.
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
- semi synthetic
- Evidence
- moderate
- Irritation
- low
- Clogging risk
- low
Quick decision guide
Useful, but context matters
Laneth-60 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 Laneth-60.
- 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
Laneth-60 is a semi-synthetic emulsifier made by reacting lanolin alcohol with ethylene oxide. It belongs to the PEG (polyethylene glycol) family of ingredients and is used to stabilize oil-in-water emulsions.
How it works
Laneth-60 reduces the surface tension between oil and water, allowing them to blend into a smooth, stable emulsion. This prevents creams and lotions from separating. It also has mild cleansing properties, helping to remove excess oil and impurities from the skin's surface.
Pros
Effective emulsifier
Helps oil and water mix smoothly, giving creams a consistent, non-greasy feel.
Low irritation risk
Generally well-tolerated by most skin types, including sensitive skin, when used at typical concentrations.
Cons and cautions
Ethoxylation concerns
The manufacturing process can produce trace amounts of 1,4-dioxane, a potential carcinogen, though levels are tightly regulated.
Not vegan or lanolin-free
Derived from sheep's wool, so it's unsuitable for vegans and those with lanolin allergies.
Best for
- People who use conventional creams and lotions
- Those with normal to dry skin looking for stable emulsions
Use caution if
- Individuals with known lanolin allergy
- Those seeking strictly vegan or PEG-free formulations
Usage tips
Safety summary
Laneth-60 is considered safe for cosmetic use at typical concentrations. The main concern is potential contamination with 1,4-dioxane during manufacturing, but regulatory limits keep levels low. It may cause irritation in individuals with lanolin sensitivity.
Research notes
Studies on PEG derivatives indicate low acute toxicity and skin irritation. The Cosmetic Ingredient Review (CIR) panel has deemed many PEG compounds safe as used, though ongoing monitoring of 1,4-dioxane is recommended.
Common label clues
- Typical concentration
- 1% to 5%
- Regulatory status
- Approved for use in cosmetics in the EU, US, and many other regions, with concentration limits for impurities like 1,4-dioxane.
- Common uses
- Creams, Lotions, Cleansers, Makeup removers
- Environmental note
- As a semi-synthetic compound, Laneth-60 may not be readily biodegradable; however, it is used in low concentrations.
Good to know
- Laneth-60 is often used alongside other PEG derivatives to fine-tune texture.
- The '60' refers to the number of ethylene oxide units, which affects its water solubility.
Common questions
What is Laneth-60 in beauty products?
Laneth-60 is a modified version of lanolin (a natural oil from sheep's wool) that has been treated with ethylene oxide to make it water-soluble. In skincare, it acts as a helper ingredient that allows oil and water to mix smoothly, creating stable creams and lotions. It also helps cleanse the skin by lifting dirt and makeup. Because it's ethoxylated, some people prefer to avoid it due to concerns about potential impurities, though it is generally considered safe at low levels.
What does Laneth-60 do in a beauty product?
Laneth-60 reduces the surface tension between oil and water, allowing them to blend into a smooth, stable emulsion. This prevents creams and lotions from separating. It also has mild cleansing properties, helping to remove excess oil and impurities from the skin's surface.
Is Laneth-60 safe for most people?
Laneth-60 is considered safe for cosmetic use at typical concentrations. The main concern is potential contamination with 1,4-dioxane during manufacturing, but regulatory limits keep levels low. It may cause irritation in individuals with lanolin sensitivity.
Who should be careful with Laneth-60?
Individuals with known lanolin allergy Those seeking strictly vegan or PEG-free formulations
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.