Ingredient review
Laureth-9
INCI: Laureth-9
Laureth-9 is a common cleansing and emulsifying agent, but it can be drying or irritating for sensitive skin at higher concentrations.
In plain English
Laureth-9 is a synthetic ingredient that helps cleansers foam up and mix oil with water so they rinse away cleanly. Think of it as a helper that makes your shampoo or face wash work better, but it can sometimes strip too much moisture from your skin if you're sensitive.
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-9 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-9.
- 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-9 is a polyethylene glycol (PEG) ether of lauryl alcohol, produced by reacting lauryl alcohol with 9 units of ethylene oxide. It belongs to the laureth family of surfactants and is commonly used in rinse-off personal care products.
How it works
In a cosmetic product, Laureth-9 reduces the surface tension between oil and water, allowing them to mix into a stable emulsion. It also helps create foam and lifts dirt and oil from the skin or hair so they can be rinsed away.
Pros
Effective cleanser
Laureth-9 efficiently removes excess oil, dirt, and makeup, leaving skin feeling clean and refreshed.
Improves product feel
It helps create a stable, creamy texture in cleansers and shampoos, making them pleasant to use.
Cons and cautions
May be drying
For those with dry or sensitive skin, Laureth-9 can strip natural oils, leading to tightness or irritation.
PEG-related concerns
As a PEG compound, it may contain trace levels of 1,4-dioxane, a potential contaminant, though reputable manufacturers purify it.
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, sensitive, or compromised skin barriers
- Anyone seeking a completely PEG-free routine
Usage tips
Safety summary
Laureth-9 is considered safe for use in cosmetics at typical concentrations, but it can cause mild to moderate irritation in sensitive individuals, especially in leave-on products. The Cosmetic Ingredient Review (CIR) panel has evaluated similar laureth compounds and found them safe when formulated properly.
Research notes
Studies on laureth surfactants indicate low acute toxicity and skin sensitization potential, but irritation can occur with prolonged exposure or high concentrations. The CIR has reviewed related ingredients and deemed them safe for cosmetic use with restrictions on ethylene oxide residues.
Common label clues
- Typical concentration
- 1% to 5% in rinse-off products; lower in leave-on products
- Regulatory status
- Approved for use in cosmetics in the US (FDA), EU (CosIng), and many other regions, with concentration limits typically set by good manufacturing practices.
- Common uses
- Cleansers, Shampoos, Body washes, Emulsions
- Environmental note
- Laureth-9 is synthetic and not readily biodegradable in all conditions, though many modern formulations aim for improved environmental profiles.
Good to know
- Laureth-9 is often used in combination with other mild surfactants to reduce its potential for irritation.
- The number '9' refers to the average number of ethylene oxide units, which influences its water solubility and mildness.
Common questions
What is Laureth-9 in beauty products?
Laureth-9 is a synthetic ingredient that helps cleansers foam up and mix oil with water so they rinse away cleanly. Think of it as a helper that makes your shampoo or face wash work better, but it can sometimes strip too much moisture from your skin if you're sensitive.
What does Laureth-9 do in a beauty product?
In a cosmetic product, Laureth-9 reduces the surface tension between oil and water, allowing them to mix into a stable emulsion. It also helps create foam and lifts dirt and oil from the skin or hair so they can be rinsed away.
Is Laureth-9 safe for most people?
Laureth-9 is considered safe for use in cosmetics at typical concentrations, but it can cause mild to moderate irritation in sensitive individuals, especially in leave-on products. The Cosmetic Ingredient Review (CIR) panel has evaluated similar laureth compounds and found them safe when formulated properly.
Who should be careful with Laureth-9?
Individuals with very dry, sensitive, or compromised skin barriers Anyone seeking a completely PEG-free routine
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.