What Is Laureth-15?
Laureth-15 is a synthetic liquid derived from lauryl alcohol, a fatty alcohol that typically originates from coconut or palm kernel oil. Chemists react lauryl alcohol with ethylene oxide to attach about 15 repeating ethoxy units, creating a water-loving tail that turns this ingredient into a versatile surfactant. First developed in the mid-20th century when ethoxylated surfactants gained popularity for their mildness and stability, Laureth-15 quickly found a home in personal care formulas as manufacturers searched for alternatives to harsher soaps.
The production process, known as ethoxylation, takes place in closed reactors where lauryl alcohol is treated with controlled amounts of ethylene oxide under heat and pressure. The result is a clear to slightly hazy liquid that blends easily with both water and oils, giving formulators a reliable tool for creating smooth, uniform products.
Today you will most often spot Laureth-15 in facial cleansers, body washes, shampoos, makeup removers, micellar waters, lotions, creams, sunscreens, exfoliating masks and even color cosmetics like liquid foundation. Its ability to keep oil and water mixed while lifting away dirt makes it a staple across a wide range of rinse-off and leave-on products.
Laureth-15’s Cosmetic Benefits/Uses
Below are the key roles Laureth-15 plays when added to a cosmetic formula:
- Cleansing: Acts as a mild surfactant that loosens oil, sweat and makeup so they rinse off easily, leaving skin or hair feeling fresh without an overly stripped sensation
- Emulsifying: Helps oil-based and water-based ingredients stay evenly blended, preventing separation, improving texture and ensuring consistent application with every use
Who Can Use Laureth-15
Most skin types, including normal, oily and combination skin, tolerate Laureth-15 well because it is considered a mild surfactant that rinses clean without leaving a heavy residue. Dry or very sensitive skin may prefer formulas where this ingredient is paired with extra soothing or moisturizing agents since over-cleansing can sometimes exacerbate tightness or redness in those skin types.
Laureth-15 is synthetic and usually produced from plant-derived lauryl alcohol, so products containing it are generally suitable for vegetarians and vegans. If a brand specifies that its supply chain is palm free or sustainably sourced, those concerned about environmental impact can look for that additional reassurance.
No specific warnings exist for topical use of Laureth-15 during pregnancy or breastfeeding, but this is not medical advice. Anyone who is pregnant or nursing should show the full ingredient list of any personal care product to their healthcare provider to be certain it aligns with their individual needs.
Laureth-15 does not increase photosensitivity, so it will not make skin more prone to sunburn. As with any cleanser or emulsifier, pairing it with daily sunscreen is still wise because a consistent UV routine supports overall skin health.
Potential Side Effects/Adverse Reactions
Reactions to topical Laureth-15 vary from person to person. The points below outline potential side effects, but most people will not experience them when the ingredient is used at standard cosmetic levels in a well-formulated product.
- Transient stinging or burning, especially on compromised or freshly exfoliated skin
- Mild redness or irritation if used in very high concentrations
- Contact dermatitis in individuals with a specific sensitivity to ethoxylated surfactants
- Eye irritation if the product accidentally gets into the eyes
- Increased dryness or tightness when combined with other strong cleansing agents
If any of these reactions occur discontinue use and seek advice from a healthcare professional.
Comedogenic Rating
Rating: 1 out of 5. Laureth-15 is highly water soluble and rinses away without leaving a filmy residue that could block pores, so it poses little risk of clogging. It stays mostly in the water phase of a formula and is used at low levels, further reducing any chance of buildup.
That makes Laureth-15 generally suitable for people prone to acne or breakouts. If breakouts occur they are more likely due to other ingredients in the product or overall formulation balance.
Keep in mind that cleansers or creams rich in heavy oils or waxes can still be comedogenic even if they contain Laureth-15, so look at the full ingredient list when assessing pore-clogging potential.
Summary
Laureth-15 works as a mild surfactant and emulsifier, meaning it lifts away dirt, oil and makeup while keeping water and oil components smoothly blended. Its ethoxylated chain loves water and its fatty alcohol base loves oil, letting it bridge both phases and create stable, easy-to-spread textures.
The ingredient is popular behind the scenes in mainstream skincare and haircare, though it rarely gets star billing on labels. Formulators reach for it because it is dependable, cost effective and compatible with many actives.
Overall safety is considered high with irritation rarely reported at typical use levels. As with any new product it is wise to do a quick patch test to confirm personal tolerance.