Ingredient review

Laureth-13 PG-Hydroxyethylcellulose

INCI: LAURETH-13 PG-HYDROXYETHYLCELLULOSE

A gentle thickener that improves product texture without significant skin concerns.

beautyskincarethickener

In plain English

This ingredient is a modified form of cellulose (plant fiber) that helps give skincare and haircare products a nice, smooth consistency. It's like a thickening agent that makes watery formulas feel more luxurious and easier to apply.

Review score

Safety, usefulness, and evidence

3.8Good
3.8/ 5

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
How reviews are scored

Quick decision guide

Useful, but context matters

Laureth-13 PG-Hydroxyethylcellulose 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.

  1. Step 1Start with the score, then check the irritation and clogging risk before judging Laureth-13 PG-Hydroxyethylcellulose.
  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

low

Less likely to sting, burn, or bother most users, though sensitive skin can still react.

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 semi-synthetic polymer derived from cellulose, chemically modified with laureth-13 and propylene glycol to improve its water solubility and thickening ability.

How it works

When added to water, the polymer chains swell and entangle, increasing the viscosity of the solution. This creates a gel-like texture that helps suspend other ingredients and stabilize emulsions (mixtures of oil and water).

Pros

Gentle on skin

This thickener has a very low irritation and comedogenic risk, making it suitable for sensitive and acne-prone skin types.

Improves product feel

It gives watery products a smooth, non-greasy texture that spreads easily and feels pleasant on the skin.

Cons and cautions

Not an active ingredient

It only affects texture and stability, not skin function. It won't hydrate, exfoliate, or treat any skin concerns.

Can feel tacky

In high concentrations or certain formulas, it may leave a slightly sticky or tacky residue on the skin.

Best for

  • Anyone looking for a gentle thickener in their routine
  • People with sensitive skin who avoid common irritants

Use caution if

  • Those who prefer completely natural thickeners (e.g., xanthan gum)

Usage tips

Look for this ingredient in cleansers and shampoos where a rich, gel-like texture is desired.
If you notice a tacky feel, try using a smaller amount of product or follow with a lighter moisturizer.

Safety summary

Laureth-13 PG-Hydroxyethylcellulose is considered safe for use in cosmetics at typical concentrations. It has low irritation and comedogenic potential, and no significant safety concerns have been raised by regulatory bodies.

Research notes

Limited independent research is available specifically for this ingredient, but it is a well-established thickener in the cosmetics industry. Its safety profile is supported by its widespread use and low reported irritation rates.

Common label clues

Typical concentration
0.1% to 2%
Regulatory status
Approved for use in cosmetics in the EU, US, and many other regions. No specific restrictions at typical use levels.
Common uses
Cleansers, Shampoos, Body washes, Lotions
Environmental note
As a semi-synthetic polymer, it may not be readily biodegradable. However, it is used in low concentrations and is generally considered safe for the environment.

Good to know

  • It is often used in combination with other thickeners to achieve the perfect texture.
  • This ingredient is not absorbed into the skin; it stays on the surface and rinses off easily.

Common questions

What is Laureth-13 PG-Hydroxyethylcellulose in beauty products?

This ingredient is a modified form of cellulose (plant fiber) that helps give skincare and haircare products a nice, smooth consistency. It's like a thickening agent that makes watery formulas feel more luxurious and easier to apply.

What does Laureth-13 PG-Hydroxyethylcellulose do in a beauty product?

When added to water, the polymer chains swell and entangle, increasing the viscosity of the solution. This creates a gel-like texture that helps suspend other ingredients and stabilize emulsions (mixtures of oil and water).

Is Laureth-13 PG-Hydroxyethylcellulose safe for most people?

Laureth-13 PG-Hydroxyethylcellulose is considered safe for use in cosmetics at typical concentrations. It has low irritation and comedogenic potential, and no significant safety concerns have been raised by regulatory bodies.

Who should be careful with Laureth-13 PG-Hydroxyethylcellulose?

Those who prefer completely natural thickeners (e.g., xanthan gum)

Research sources

CosIng - EU Cosmetic Ingredient DatabaseOpenPubChem - HydroxyethylcelluloseOpen

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.