Ingredient review
Laureth-13
INCI: LAURETH-13
Laureth-13 is a synthetic cleansing agent that helps products foam and rinse clean, but it can be drying or irritating for sensitive skin.
In plain English
Laureth-13 is a man-made ingredient that helps cleansers and shampoos create foam and mix oil with water so they rinse off easily. It belongs to a family of ingredients called ethoxylated alcohols, which are made by adding ethylene oxide to lauryl alcohol. While effective at cleaning, it can strip the skin of its natural oils and may cause irritation for some people, especially those with dry or sensitive skin.
Review score
Safety, usefulness, and evidence
Potentially useful with some tradeoffs
The evidence base is useful, but some claims depend heavily on the formula.
Main practical flags: irritation is moderate; clogging risk is low.
- Source
- synthetic
- Evidence
- moderate
- Irritation
- moderate
- Clogging risk
- low
Quick decision guide
Useful, but context matters
Laureth-13 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.
- Step 1Start with the score, then check the irritation and clogging risk before judging Laureth-13.
- 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
moderateCan bother some users, especially with frequent use, damaged skin, or strong companion ingredients.
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
Laureth-13 is a synthetic surfactant derived from lauryl alcohol (a fatty alcohol from coconut or palm oil) that has been reacted with about 13 units of ethylene oxide. This process makes it water-soluble and able to reduce surface tension, allowing oil and water to mix.
How it works
In a cosmetic product, Laureth-13 works by lowering the surface tension between water and oil, helping to lift dirt, oil, and makeup from the skin or hair so they can be rinsed away. It also helps stabilize emulsions, keeping oil and water blended in creams and lotions.
Pros
Effective cleanser
Laureth-13 efficiently removes excess oil, dirt, and makeup, making it a reliable choice for daily cleansing products.
Good foam booster
It produces a satisfying lather that many people associate with a thorough clean, especially in shampoos and body washes.
Cons and cautions
Potential for irritation
Because it can strip natural oils, Laureth-13 may cause dryness, tightness, or irritation, particularly for those with sensitive or compromised skin barriers.
Ethoxylation concerns
The manufacturing process can generate trace amounts of 1,4-dioxane, a possible carcinogen, though reputable brands purify their ingredients to minimize this risk.
Best for
- People with normal to oily skin looking for effective cleansing
- Those using rinse-off products like shampoos and body washes
Use caution if
- Individuals with very dry or sensitive skin
- Those who prefer sulfate-free or gentle cleansing systems
Usage tips
Safety summary
Laureth-13 is considered safe for use in cosmetics at typical concentrations, but it can cause irritation for sensitive individuals. The main safety concern is the potential presence of 1,4-dioxane, which is regulated and minimized through purification.
Research notes
Studies indicate that ethoxylated alcohols like Laureth-13 are effective surfactants with low acute toxicity. However, some research notes mild to moderate skin irritation at higher concentrations, and the 1,4-dioxane impurity is a known concern that is controlled by good manufacturing practices.
Common label clues
- Typical concentration
- 1% to 10% depending on product type
- Regulatory status
- Approved for use in cosmetics in the EU, US, and many other regions, with concentration limits for leave-on products in some cases.
- Common uses
- Cleansers, Shampoos, Body washes, Emulsions
- Environmental note
- Laureth-13 is biodegradable, but its production from palm or coconut oil may raise sustainability concerns depending on sourcing.
Good to know
- Laureth-13 is often used in combination with other surfactants to balance cleansing power and mildness.
- The number '13' refers to the average number of ethylene oxide units, which affects its water solubility and foaming properties.
Common questions
What is Laureth-13 in beauty products?
Laureth-13 is a man-made ingredient that helps cleansers and shampoos create foam and mix oil with water so they rinse off easily. It belongs to a family of ingredients called ethoxylated alcohols, which are made by adding ethylene oxide to lauryl alcohol. While effective at cleaning, it can strip the skin of its natural oils and may cause irritation for some people, especially those with dry or sensitive skin.
What does Laureth-13 do in a beauty product?
In a cosmetic product, Laureth-13 works by lowering the surface tension between water and oil, helping to lift dirt, oil, and makeup from the skin or hair so they can be rinsed away. It also helps stabilize emulsions, keeping oil and water blended in creams and lotions.
Is Laureth-13 safe for most people?
Laureth-13 is considered safe for use in cosmetics at typical concentrations, but it can cause irritation for sensitive individuals. The main safety concern is the potential presence of 1,4-dioxane, which is regulated and minimized through purification.
Who should be careful with Laureth-13?
Individuals with very dry or sensitive skin Those who prefer sulfate-free or gentle cleansing systems
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.