Laureth-4

Laureth-4 Description

Laureth-4 is a form of lauryl alcohol (a non-sensitizing fatty alcohol derived from coconut oil) that can function as a cleansing agent, emulsifier/stabilizer, and formulary texture enhancer. You can find this ingredient in all kinds of skin care products, including cleansers, toners, serums, and other leave-on treatments.

The number 4 correlates to the number of ethylene oxide units attached to the lauryl alcohol, which controls its water solubility. The higher the laureth’s numerical value, the greater the viscosity, eventually leading to white, waxy solids. Laureth-4 is described as a clear, colorless liquid. It can be plant-derived or made synthetically, with both forms producing equivalent results.

Laureth-4 has a proven track record of safety in cosmetics. In 2012, the Cosmetic Ingredient Review Expert Panel reaffirmed its safety status. Despite misinformation found on the Internet, there’s no substantiated evidence that this ingredient is problematic for oily skin.