Laureth-4

Laureth-4 is an ethoxylated lauryl alcohol with about four EO units, belonging to the nonionic surfactant family. It boosts detergency and solubilization, stabilizes emulsions, and improves spreadability in cleansers and lotions.
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Ingredient Snapshot

Overview
A mild surfactant that boosts cleansing and smooths product feel.
Category
Cleansing, Emulsifying
Type
Surfactant

Ingredient Ratings

Overall Rating

Good

Comedogenic Risk

None

Skin Benefits

Boosts washing performance and makes products feel smoother and less tacky on application.

Uses In Skincare & Cosmetics

Common in body washes, shampoos, and fluid creams where a stronger clean and reliably uniform blends are desired.

Comedogenic Rating

This ingredient is not typically evaluated for comedogenicity, and no standardized rating is available.

Safety

May cause mild to moderate skin or eye irritation at higher use levels; best suited to rinse-off applications. Generally safe as formulated, with manufacturers minimizing residual processing impurities.

Is Laureth-4 a Good Ingredient?

Rated Good for dependable emulsification and stronger detergency that improves cleansing and solubilization. It can be more drying or irritating than milder ethoxylates at high levels or in leave-on products, which is why it doesn't rank higher.

Products with Laureth-4

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