Ingredient review
Laureth-38
INCI: Laureth-38
A gentle, non-ionic surfactant that helps cleanse without stripping the skin's natural moisture barrier.
In plain English
Laureth-38 is a mild cleansing ingredient that helps water and oil mix together in products like face washes and shampoos. It's known for being less harsh than some other cleansers, so it's less likely to leave your skin feeling tight or dry.
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
Laureth-38 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 Laureth-38.
- 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
Laureth-38 is a polyethylene glycol (PEG) ether of lauryl alcohol, meaning it's a semi-synthetic compound made by reacting lauryl alcohol (from coconut or palm oil) with ethylene oxide. The number 38 indicates the average number of ethylene oxide units, which gives it water-loving properties.
How it works
As a non-ionic surfactant, Laureth-38 lowers the surface tension between oil and water, allowing them to mix. This helps lift dirt, oil, and makeup from the skin so they can be rinsed away. Its gentle nature means it cleanses without disrupting the skin's protective barrier as much as harsher surfactants.
Pros
Mild on skin
Laureth-38 is considered a gentle surfactant that cleanses effectively without stripping the skin's natural oils, making it suitable for daily use and sensitive skin types.
Good foam quality
It produces a rich, creamy lather that feels luxurious and helps spread the product evenly, enhancing the user experience.
Cons and cautions
PEG concerns
As a PEG compound, Laureth-38 may contain trace levels of 1,4-dioxane (a potential contaminant) if not properly purified. However, reputable manufacturers ensure low levels.
Sourcing issues
Lauryl alcohol is often derived from palm oil, which raises environmental and ethical concerns related to deforestation and habitat loss.
Best for
- People with normal to dry skin looking for a gentle cleanser
- Those who find traditional sulfates too drying
Use caution if
- Individuals with known sensitivity to PEG compounds (rare)
- Those seeking strictly natural or plant-based ingredients
Usage tips
Safety summary
Laureth-38 is considered safe for use in cosmetics at typical concentrations. Potential concerns about PEG contaminants are minimized by modern purification methods. It has low irritation and comedogenic risk.
Research notes
Safety assessments by the Cosmetic Ingredient Review (CIR) and other bodies have concluded that PEG lauryl ethers, including Laureth-38, are safe for use in rinse-off and leave-on products. Studies show low skin irritation and sensitization potential.
Common label clues
- Typical concentration
- 1% to 10% in rinse-off products; lower in leave-on formulas
- Regulatory status
- Approved for use in cosmetics by the FDA and EU CosIng database. The Cosmetic Ingredient Review (CIR) panel has deemed PEG lauryl ethers safe as used in cosmetics.
- Common uses
- Cleansers, Shampoos, Body washes, Emulsions
- Environmental note
- Laureth-38 is biodegradable, but its production from palm oil may contribute to deforestation. Look for sustainably sourced or certified palm oil derivatives.
Good to know
- Laureth-38 is often used in combination with other surfactants to adjust foam and mildness
- It is considered biodegradable and generally safe for aquatic environments at low concentrations
Common questions
What is Laureth-38 in beauty products?
Laureth-38 is a mild cleansing ingredient that helps water and oil mix together in products like face washes and shampoos. It's known for being less harsh than some other cleansers, so it's less likely to leave your skin feeling tight or dry.
What does Laureth-38 do in a beauty product?
As a non-ionic surfactant, Laureth-38 lowers the surface tension between oil and water, allowing them to mix. This helps lift dirt, oil, and makeup from the skin so they can be rinsed away. Its gentle nature means it cleanses without disrupting the skin's protective barrier as much as harsher surfactants.
Is Laureth-38 safe for most people?
Laureth-38 is considered safe for use in cosmetics at typical concentrations. Potential concerns about PEG contaminants are minimized by modern purification methods. It has low irritation and comedogenic risk.
Who should be careful with Laureth-38?
Individuals with known sensitivity to PEG compounds (rare) Those seeking strictly natural or plant-based 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.