What Is Laureth-13 Carboxylic Acid?
Laureth-13 Carboxylic Acid is a synthetic surfactant created by attaching about 13 units of ethylene oxide to lauryl alcohol, then adding a carboxylic acid group at one end. This tweak turns the fatty alcohol into a water-loving molecule that can mix oil and water with ease. Originally developed in the mid-20th century as chemists searched for mild yet effective cleansers, it soon found a place in personal care because it offered reliable foaming and dirt-lifting power without the harshness of older soaps. Production starts with plant-derived or petroleum-based lauryl alcohol, which is ethoxylated under controlled heat and pressure. The resulting laureth-13 is then carboxylated, neutralized and purified into a clear liquid used by formulators. You are most likely to spot it on the labels of facial cleansers, body washes, shampoos, micellar waters and occasionally makeup removers where gentle yet thorough cleansing is needed.
Laureth-13 Carboxylic Acid’s Cosmetic Benefits/Uses
In skin and hair care formulas this ingredient serves one main purpose: cleansing. As a surfactant it lowers the surface tension between oil, dirt and water, allowing grime to lift away easily when rinsed. This helps products foam, spread evenly and leave the skin or hair feeling fresh but not stripped.
Who Can Use Laureth-13 Carboxylic Acid
Thanks to its mild nature most skin types can tolerate Laureth-13 Carboxylic Acid. Normal, oily and combination skin usually benefit from its cleansing abilities without feeling stripped. Sensitive skin tends to do well too because the molecule is less harsh than traditional sulfates although extremely reactive or compromised skin may still prefer ultra gentle formulas. Very dry skin might notice a tight feeling if the cleanser is packed with this surfactant and little else to offset the loss of lipids so look for products that also contain moisturizers if dryness is a concern.
The ingredient is typically produced from coconut or palm sourced lauryl alcohol and synthetic ethylene oxide, with no animal derived substances involved. That means it is generally suitable for both vegans and vegetarians, provided the finished product is certified cruelty free by the brand.
No studies suggest particular risks for pregnant or breastfeeding women when Laureth-13 Carboxylic Acid is used in rinse off cosmetics. Systemic absorption is minimal and the compound is regarded as non toxic at the concentrations allowed in personal care products. This is not medical advice and anyone who is pregnant or nursing should still run their skincare routine past a qualified healthcare provider just to be on the safe side.
The ingredient does not increase photosensitivity, so there is no special need for extra sun protection beyond the normal daily use of sunscreen.
Potential Side Effects/Adverse Reactions
Side effects and reactions to the topical application of Laureth-13 Carboxylic Acid can vary from person to person. The list below covers potential issues that could occur yet they are unlikely to be the average experience when the ingredient is used correctly in a well-formulated product.
- Skin dryness or tightness
- Mild stinging or redness on very sensitive skin
- Eye irritation if the product accidentally gets into the eyes
- Allergic contact dermatitis in rare cases of individual sensitization
- Scalp flaking or itchiness when overused in shampoos
If any unpleasant reaction occurs stop using the product immediately and consult a healthcare professional for guidance.
Comedogenic Rating
Rating: 1 (very low likelihood of clogging pores)
Laureth-13 Carboxylic Acid is highly water soluble and designed to rinse away completely, leaving little to no residue that could block pores. Its molecular size and polarity keep it from building up on skin or mixing with sebum in a way that forms comedones. It is therefore generally suitable for people prone to acne or breakouts. Because it is almost always used in wash-off products, any brief skin contact further reduces the risk of pore congestion.
One caveat is that a formula overloaded with heavy oils or butters could offset this low rating, so the entire product composition matters when assessing breakout potential.
Summary
Laureth-13 Carboxylic Acid is a gentle cleansing surfactant that lifts dirt, excess oil and product buildup by lowering surface tension and allowing grime to mix with water for easy rinsing. It foams well, spreads smoothly and leaves skin or hair feeling clean without the squeaky harshness of stronger detergents.
While not as famous as sulfate surfactants or trendy plant foaming agents, it remains a steady workhorse in facial cleansers, body washes and shampoos due to its balanced performance and mild profile.
Regulatory assessments show it is safe at the levels used in cosmetics, with minimal irritation or systemic absorption when used as directed. Still, everyone’s skin is unique so performing a quick patch test when trying a new product is a smart precaution.