What Is Laureth-16?
Laureth-16 is a synthetic ingredient created by reacting lauryl alcohol, a fatty alcohol usually sourced from coconut or palm oil, with repeated units of ethylene oxide. This process, called ethoxylation, links roughly sixteen ethylene oxide units to the original lauryl chain, ending with a hydroxyl group that makes the molecule water friendly. Chemists began adding ethoxylated fatty alcohols like Laureth-16 to personal care products in the 1970s when mild yet effective cleansers were in demand. Today, large-scale production involves careful control of temperature and pressure so the ethylene oxide units attach evenly, followed by purification to remove unreacted raw materials. Thanks to its ability to mix oil with water and create soft, stable foam, Laureth-16 shows up in facial cleansers, shampoos, body washes, micellar waters, makeup removers, exfoliating scrubs, sheet masks and some lightweight lotions and creams.
Laureth-16’s Cosmetic Benefits/Uses
In formulas, Laureth-16 pulls double duty and improves both texture and performance
- Cleansing: The ingredient surrounds dirt, excess oil and leftover makeup then lifts them away when rinsed. It produces a creamy lather that feels gentle on skin and scalp, leaving surfaces fresh without the tight sensation harsher surfactants can cause.
- Emulsifying: By lowering the surface tension between oil and water, Laureth-16 keeps creams, lotions and washes from separating. This stability means a smoother product, a uniform dose of active ingredients and a longer shelf life.
Most skin types tolerate Laureth-16 well. Its mild cleansing action suits oily, combination and normal skin while still being gentle enough for many people with sensitive skin. Those with very dry or compromised skin barriers may find frequent use slightly drying because the ingredient lifts away surface lipids that fragile skin needs to stay comfortable.
Because Laureth-16 is made from plant-derived or petroleum-derived feedstocks and involves no animal inputs, it is generally considered suitable for vegans and vegetarians. Certification can vary by brand so anyone following a strict lifestyle should look for the appropriate cruelty-free or vegan logo on the finished product.
The ingredient is regarded as low risk for women who are pregnant or breastfeeding, but this is not medical advice. Expectant or nursing mothers should run any skincare or haircare routine past a qualified healthcare provider to be safe.
Laureth-16 does not make skin more sensitive to sunlight and has no known effect on photosensitivity. It is also colour-safe for treated hair and does not interfere with common active ingredients like vitamin C or retinoids.
Potential Side Effects/Adverse Reactions
Reactions to topical Laureth-16 differ from person to person. The effects listed below are only potential outcomes and they are unlikely for the average user when the ingredient is included at typical levels in well-formulated products.
- Mild skin irritation such as temporary redness or stinging, usually when used at high concentrations or left on skin for extended periods
- Dryness or tightness in individuals with already compromised moisture barriers
- Allergic contact dermatitis in rare cases where the user is sensitized to ethoxylated surfactants
- Eye irritation if the product accidentally gets into the eyes while cleansing
- Heightened cumulative irritation when combined with other strong surfactants or frequent exfoliation
If any persistent discomfort or unusual reaction occurs stop using the product and seek advice from a healthcare professional
Comedogenic Rating
Rating: 1/5. Laureth-16 is a water-soluble surfactant that rinses away cleanly without leaving an oily film. Its large hydrophilic portion keeps it dispersed in water so it is unlikely to block pores. Trace residue in leave-on lotions is generally below the level that can trap dead cells or sebum.
Most people prone to acne or breakouts can use products containing Laureth-16 without issue.
Overall pore safety depends on the full formula, so pair it with lightweight products if congestion is a concern.
Summary
Laureth-16 serves as a cleanser and an emulsifier. Its fatty alcohol tail clings to oils and grime while the chain of ethylene oxide units binds to water, allowing unwanted buildup to be lifted away and keeping oil-water mixtures stable.
Though not a headline ingredient it quietly powers many everyday formulas like face washes, body cleansers, micellar waters, shampoos, light lotions and masks because it foams gently and helps products stay homogenous.
Research and decades of consumer use show it is generally safe with only mild irritation possible in sensitive or compromised skin. As with any new skincare or haircare item, do a quick patch test before regular use to make sure your skin agrees with it.