What Is Laureth-3 Phosphate?
Laureth-3 phosphate is a synthetic ingredient derived from lauryl alcohol, a fatty alcohol often sourced from coconut or palm oil. Through a process called ethoxylation, three units of ethylene oxide are added to lauryl alcohol, creating the “Laureth-3” portion. The resulting molecule is then reacted with phosphoric acid, yielding a mild anionic surfactant with a phosphate group at one end and a short chain of ethylene oxide units in the middle. This balance of oil-loving and water-loving parts helps it mix oils, dirt and water, making it useful for cleansing.
The use of ethoxylated fatty alcohol phosphates in cosmetics dates back to the 1960s when formulators looked for gentler alternatives to traditional soaps. Laureth-3 phosphate gained popularity because it provided good foaming and cleansing while being less irritating than harsher sulfates. Today it is manufactured in large industrial reactors where temperature and pH are carefully controlled to attach the phosphate group and neutralize the final product, often yielding a liquid or paste that is easy to blend into formulations.
You will most often spot laureth-3 phosphate in rinse-off products such as shampoos, facial cleansers, body washes and bubble baths. Its mildness and foaming ability also make it useful in micellar waters, baby washes and makeup-removing wipes. Occasionally, it appears in exfoliating masks or scrub bases where gentle but effective cleansing is required.
Laureth-3 Phosphate’s Cosmetic Benefits/Uses
Below is the main way this ingredient contributes to a cosmetic formula
Cleansing: Laureth-3 phosphate lowers the surface tension of water so it can surround oil, dirt and product buildup and lift them away from skin or hair. It creates a soft, creamy foam that rinses clean without leaving a tight or squeaky feel, helping products deliver a fresh, comfortable finish while preserving the skin barrier.
Who Can Use Laureth-3 Phosphate
Laureth-3 phosphate is generally well tolerated by most skin types, including normal, oily, combination and dry skin. Because it is a mild cleansing agent it is also suitable for sensitive skin, though extremely reactive or compromised skin may prefer formulas with even fewer surfactants to avoid any chance of irritation.
The ingredient is synthetic and contains no animal-derived components, so products that rely on it can be formulated vegan and vegetarian friendly. Always check the full ingredient list, as other raw materials in the finished product may not be plant based.
Current safety data show no specific risks for pregnant or breastfeeding women when this ingredient is used in rinse-off or leave-on cosmetics at typical concentrations. This is not medical advice, and anyone who is pregnant or nursing should review their routine with a healthcare professional before starting a new product that contains Laureth-3 phosphate.
Laureth-3 phosphate does not make skin more sensitive to sunlight and it has no known interaction with UV exposure. There are no fragrance or essential oil components attached to the molecule, so it carries a very low risk of photosensitisation.
Potential Side Effects/Adverse Reactions
Reactions to topical Laureth-3 phosphate vary from person to person. The points below outline potential side effects, but most users will not experience them when the ingredient is used at standard cosmetic levels by reputable manufacturers.
- Mild stinging or burning on very sensitive or broken skin
- Temporary dryness or tightness if the formulation is not adequately balanced with moisturisers
- Redness or itching due to rare allergic contact dermatitis
- Eye irritation and watering if the product accidentally enters the eyes
If you notice any of the above reactions discontinue use and seek advice from a medical professional.
Comedogenic Rating
Rating: 1/5
Laureth-3 phosphate is a small, water-soluble surfactant that rinses away easily and does not leave an oily film on skin. Because it is designed to lift away sebum rather than sit on top of it, the likelihood of it blocking pores is very low, earning it a rating of 1.
Suitable for acne-prone or breakout-prone users, especially in rinse-off formulas such as cleansers and shampoos.
Its mild nature means any pore-clogging risk comes more from the overall product base than from this specific ingredient.
Summary
Laureth-3 phosphate is a gentle anionic surfactant that excels at cleansing. By lowering the surface tension of water it surrounds dirt, oil and residue then foams them away, leaving skin or hair feeling fresh yet comfortable.
Although not as famous as sulfates or newer plant-based surfactants it remains a steady choice for formulators who need mild, reliable foam in shampoos, body washes and micellar waters.
Safety studies and decades of use show it is generally well tolerated with only occasional mild irritation in very sensitive individuals. As with any new cosmetic, patch test when trying a product containing Laureth-3 phosphate to confirm personal compatibility.