What Is Ammonium Laureth-6 Carboxylate?
Ammonium Laureth-6 Carboxylate is a synthetic surfactant derived from lauryl alcohol, a fatty alcohol typically sourced from coconut or palm kernel oil. Chemically, it is an ammonium salt of a carboxylated polyethylene glycol ether, containing an average of six ethylene oxide units that give it the “Laureth-6” designation. This balance of a fatty tail and water-loving head makes it effective at loosening oily residues and dispersing them in water.
Surfactants like this began gaining traction in personal care during the mid-20th century when formulators sought milder alternatives to traditional soap. By tweaking natural fatty alcohols with ethylene oxide and adding a carboxylate group, chemists created a new class of gentle yet efficient cleansers. Today the ingredient is manufactured through a multi-step process: lauryl alcohol undergoes ethoxylation to add ethylene oxide units, the resulting ether is reacted with chloroacetic acid to introduce the carboxymethyl group, and finally the molecule is neutralized with ammonium hydroxide to form the water-soluble salt.
You will most often spot Ammonium Laureth-6 Carboxylate in rinse-off products such as facial cleansers, body washes, shampoos and micellar waters. Its mildness also makes it suitable for baby washes and sensitive-skin formulations, and it can appear in foaming masks or exfoliating scrubs where a gentle cleansing boost is needed.
Ammonium Laureth-6 Carboxylate’s Cosmetic Benefits/Uses
Formulators reach for this ingredient primarily because of its surfactant abilities
As a cleansing agent, Ammonium Laureth-6 Carboxylate lowers the surface tension of water so oils, dirt and makeup lift away with minimal rubbing. Its structure creates a soft, creamy foam that rinses clean without leaving skin or hair feeling stripped or squeaky, helping maintain a comfortable after-feel that consumers associate with mildness.
Who Can Use Ammonium Laureth-6 Carboxylate
This mild surfactant is generally suitable for all skin types, including oily, combination, normal and dry skin. Its gentle nature and low irritation profile make it a popular choice for sensitive skin as well, since it cleans without leaving a tight, stripped feeling. Individuals with very reactive or allergy-prone skin may still prefer a patch test because any surfactant can be problematic if the barrier is already compromised.
The ingredient is synthesized from plant-derived fatty alcohols and does not rely on animal sources, so it is considered appropriate for vegans and vegetarians. Those who avoid palm-based materials for environmental reasons may want to check with the brand about sourcing, as the starting lauryl alcohol can come from either coconut or palm kernel oil.
No evidence suggests that topical use of Ammonium Laureth-6 Carboxylate poses special risks during pregnancy or while breastfeeding. Still, this is not medical advice and anyone who is pregnant or nursing should review the full ingredient list of any product with their doctor before use to be on the safe side.
The molecule does not increase photosensitivity, so normal daytime use followed by standard sun protection is adequate. It is also compatible with common active ingredients like niacinamide, vitamin C and low-level exfoliating acids, making it easy to slot into most routines.
Potential Side Effects/Adverse Reactions
Responses to topical Ammonium Laureth-6 Carboxylate differ from person to person. The effects listed below are possible but uncommon when the ingredient is used at typical levels in well-formulated products.
- Mild skin dryness or tightness
- Temporary redness or stinging on very sensitive skin
- Eye irritation if the product accidentally gets into the eyes
- Rare cases of contact dermatitis in individuals allergic to surfactants
- Color fade in dyed hair with frequent or concentrated use
If you notice any unwanted reaction stop using the product and seek advice from a healthcare provider or dermatologist.
Comedogenic Rating
Rating: 0 (non-comedogenic)
Ammonium Laureth-6 Carboxylate is a water-soluble surfactant that stays mainly in the wash water rather than on your skin. Because it has a large hydrophilic head and is used in rinse-off formulas, it does not build up in pores or mix with skin sebum in a way that could trigger blockages. The molecule also lacks heavy oils or waxes that typically raise a pore-clogging risk.
Suitable for acne-prone and breakout-prone skin, especially when used in well-formulated cleansers or shampoos.
Its non-ionic nature means it works nicely alongside other low-comedogenic ingredients, so overall formulas containing it usually earn low pore-clogging scores too.
Summary
Ammonium Laureth-6 Carboxylate is a gentle synthetic surfactant that lifts away dirt, oil and makeup by lowering water’s surface tension and forming easy-to-rinse micelles. Users get a soft foam and a clean, comfortable after-feel without the harshness often tied to stronger detergents.
While not a household name, it is a steady favorite in sulfate-free body washes, facial cleansers and baby products where formulators want mildness plus good foaming. You may not see it splashed across ads, but it quietly does the heavy lifting in many gentler cleansing lines.
Current research and decades of use show it is considered safe for everyday topical application, including during pregnancy or breastfeeding. As with any new skincare or haircare product, patch testing is a smart move to be sure your skin agrees with the full formula.