Ingredient review
Sodium Laureth-2 Phosphate
INCI: Sodium Laureth-2 Phosphate
A gentle surfactant that helps cleanse and emulsify without stripping the skin, making it a good choice for sensitive skin formulations.
In plain English
Sodium Laureth-2 Phosphate is a mild cleansing ingredient that helps water and oil mix together so they can be rinsed away. It's used in products like face washes and shampoos to create a gentle foam and remove dirt and makeup without leaving 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
Sodium Laureth-2 Phosphate 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 Sodium Laureth-2 Phosphate.
- 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
Sodium Laureth-2 Phosphate is a semi-synthetic surfactant and emulsifier made from lauryl alcohol (derived from coconut or palm oil) and phosphoric acid. It belongs to the alkyl phosphate family and is known for being milder than traditional sulfates.
How it works
It works by reducing the surface tension between water and oil, allowing them to blend and be washed away. This helps lift dirt, sebum, and makeup from the skin or hair while producing a light, stable foam. Its phosphate group also gives it good emulsifying properties for oil-based ingredients.
Pros
Mild on skin
Unlike harsher sulfates, Sodium Laureth-2 Phosphate cleanses without stripping the skin's natural moisture barrier, making it suitable for daily use and sensitive skin.
Versatile emulsifier
It helps blend oil and water phases in creams and lotions, improving product texture and stability without needing additional harsh emulsifiers.
Cons and cautions
Potential irritation at high levels
While generally mild, concentrations above 10% in leave-on products may cause slight irritation for very sensitive individuals.
Sustainability concerns
Its lauryl alcohol source is often palm or coconut oil, which can be linked to deforestation or monoculture farming unless certified sustainable.
Best for
- People with normal to sensitive skin looking for a gentle cleanser
- Those who prefer sulfate-free or mild surfactant formulas
Use caution if
- Individuals with known allergies to phosphate-based ingredients (rare)
Usage tips
Safety summary
Sodium Laureth-2 Phosphate is considered safe for use in cosmetics at typical concentrations. It has low irritation and comedogenic potential, making it a good choice for sensitive skin. Always patch test new products if you have a history of reactions.
Research notes
Studies on alkyl phosphates, including Sodium Laureth-2 Phosphate, show they are mild surfactants with good cleansing and emulsifying properties. The Cosmetic Ingredient Review (CIR) has concluded they are safe for cosmetic use. More research is needed on long-term environmental impacts of sourcing.
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 EU, US, and other major markets. The Cosmetic Ingredient Review (CIR) panel has evaluated alkyl phosphates and found them safe as used in rinse-off and leave-on products.
- Common uses
- Facial cleansers, Body washes, Shampoos, Makeup removers
- Environmental note
- This ingredient is biodegradable, but its sourcing from palm or coconut oil may have environmental impacts. Look for products with RSPO-certified palm oil or sustainably sourced coconut oil.
Good to know
- Sodium Laureth-2 Phosphate is often listed near the middle or end of ingredient lists, indicating moderate usage levels
- It is considered a 'green' surfactant by some formulators due to its biodegradability
Common questions
What is Sodium Laureth-2 Phosphate in beauty products?
Sodium Laureth-2 Phosphate is a mild cleansing ingredient that helps water and oil mix together so they can be rinsed away. It's used in products like face washes and shampoos to create a gentle foam and remove dirt and makeup without leaving skin feeling tight or dry.
What does Sodium Laureth-2 Phosphate do in a beauty product?
It works by reducing the surface tension between water and oil, allowing them to blend and be washed away. This helps lift dirt, sebum, and makeup from the skin or hair while producing a light, stable foam. Its phosphate group also gives it good emulsifying properties for oil-based ingredients.
Is Sodium Laureth-2 Phosphate safe for most people?
Sodium Laureth-2 Phosphate is considered safe for use in cosmetics at typical concentrations. It has low irritation and comedogenic potential, making it a good choice for sensitive skin. Always patch test new products if you have a history of reactions.
Who should be careful with Sodium Laureth-2 Phosphate?
Individuals with known allergies to phosphate-based ingredients (rare)
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.