Ingredient review
Laureth-14
INCI: Laureth-14
An effective cleansing agent that can strip the skin's natural oils if used too frequently or in high concentrations.
In plain English
Laureth-14 is a synthetic ingredient that helps cleansers foam up and remove dirt and oil from your skin and hair. It belongs to a family of surfactants that are good at breaking down grease, but they can also be a bit harsh, potentially leaving skin feeling dry or tight if you have a sensitive or dry complexion.
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-14 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-14.
- 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-14 is a polyethylene glycol (PEG) ether of lauryl alcohol, created by reacting lauryl alcohol with ethylene oxide. It functions as a surfactant, meaning it lowers the surface tension between water and oil, allowing them to mix so that dirt and oil can be rinsed away.
How it works
In a cosmetic product, Laureth-14 works by surrounding oil and dirt particles, breaking them into tiny droplets that can be easily washed away with water. It also helps stabilize mixtures of oil and water (emulsions) in creams and lotions.
Pros
Strong cleanser
Effectively removes excess oil, dirt, and makeup from skin and hair, leaving a clean feel.
Good foaming agent
Creates a rich lather that many people associate with a satisfying cleansing experience.
Cons and cautions
Potential for irritation
Can cause dryness, tightness, or irritation, especially for those with sensitive or eczema-prone skin.
Strips natural oils
Overuse may disrupt the skin's moisture barrier, leading to increased sensitivity or oiliness as the skin tries to compensate.
Best for
- People with normal to oily skin looking for a deep cleanse
- Those who use rinse-off products like shampoos and body washes
Use caution if
- Individuals with very dry, sensitive, or compromised skin
- Those who prefer sulfate-free or gentle cleansing systems
Usage tips
Safety summary
Laureth-14 is considered safe for use in cosmetics at typical concentrations, but it can be moderately irritating to sensitive skin. It is not known to be comedogenic. The Cosmetic Ingredient Review (CIR) panel has evaluated similar laureth compounds and found them safe when formulated to be non-irritating.
Research notes
Studies on PEG ethers like Laureth-14 indicate low acute toxicity and skin sensitization potential, but irritation can occur at higher concentrations. The CIR has reviewed related ingredients and supports their safety in rinse-off products.
Common label clues
- Typical concentration
- 1% to 10% in rinse-off products; lower in leave-on formulas
- Regulatory status
- Approved for use in cosmetics in the US, EU, and many other regions, with concentration limits typically set by good manufacturing practices.
- Common uses
- Cleansers, Shampoos, Body washes, Facial washes
- Environmental note
- As a synthetic surfactant, Laureth-14 may have moderate biodegradability; however, it is not considered a major environmental concern at typical usage levels.
Good to know
- Laureth-14 is part of the PEG family; some consumers prefer to avoid PEGs due to potential contamination concerns, though cosmetic-grade PEGs are purified.
- It is often used in combination with milder surfactants to reduce overall harshness.
Common questions
What is Laureth-14 in beauty products?
Laureth-14 is a synthetic ingredient that helps cleansers foam up and remove dirt and oil from your skin and hair. It belongs to a family of surfactants that are good at breaking down grease, but they can also be a bit harsh, potentially leaving skin feeling dry or tight if you have a sensitive or dry complexion.
What does Laureth-14 do in a beauty product?
In a cosmetic product, Laureth-14 works by surrounding oil and dirt particles, breaking them into tiny droplets that can be easily washed away with water. It also helps stabilize mixtures of oil and water (emulsions) in creams and lotions.
Is Laureth-14 safe for most people?
Laureth-14 is considered safe for use in cosmetics at typical concentrations, but it can be moderately irritating to sensitive skin. It is not known to be comedogenic. The Cosmetic Ingredient Review (CIR) panel has evaluated similar laureth compounds and found them safe when formulated to be non-irritating.
Who should be careful with Laureth-14?
Individuals with very dry, sensitive, or compromised 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.