laureth10

Laureth-10 is a nonionic surfactant used in cosmetics and cleaning products. It is an ethoxylated lauryl alcohol, consisting of a lauryl (C12–C14) hydrophobic tail attached to about ten ethylene oxide units, giving an amphiphilic molecule. In cosmetic labeling, it is commonly listed as Laureth-10 or Lauryl Ether Ethoxylate-10.

Properties and function: Laureth-10 lowers surface tension, promotes emulsification of oils in water, and acts as a wetting agent and foam stabilizer. As an alkyl polyethoxylate, it helps solubilize lipophilic ingredients, improves texture, and enhances the effectiveness of other surfactants in formulations. It is typically supplied as a liquid or paste and is soluble in water.

Applications: It is widely used in personal care products such as shampoos, body washes, facial cleansers, and lotions as an emulsifier and surfactant; it also appears in household cleaners and industrial detergents. In formulations, it is often combined with anionic or cationic surfactants to adjust foaming, cleansing performance, and compatibility with other ingredients.

Safety and regulatory considerations: Laureth-10 is generally used at low concentrations. Potential concerns include mild skin or eye irritation with concentrated solutions. Ethoxylated surfactants can contain impurities from the ethoxylation process, such as 1,4-dioxane, which regulators and manufacturers seek to minimize or remove through purification. Regulatory status varies by jurisdiction, with acceptance in cosmetics in many regions when used within approved concentrations and purity criteria.

Environmental impact: Laureth-10 is expected to be biodegradable to varying degrees; as with other ethoxylated surfactants, aquatic toxicity is typically low to moderate, and high wastewater concentrations can affect aquatic ecosystems. Proper formulation and wastewater treatment influence environmental outcomes.