What Is Laureth-7 Phosphate?
Laureth-7 phosphate is a synthetic ingredient made by reacting lauryl alcohol, usually sourced from coconut or palm kernel oil, with about seven units of ethylene oxide, then attaching a phosphoric acid group. The result is a water-loving molecule with a small oil-loving tail that behaves well in both water and oil. Surfactants based on ethoxylated alcohols started appearing in personal care in the 1970s, offering milder options than traditional soaps. As formulators searched for ingredients that clean gently yet still build stable creams and gels, laureth-7 phosphate found its niche.
Production begins with purification of lauryl alcohol, followed by carefully controlled ethoxylation to add the right number of oxyethylene units. The intermediate is then phosphorylated, creating a phosphate ester that is neutralized to a skin-friendly pH. This multistep process delivers consistent quality and performance batch after batch.
You will most often spot laureth-7 phosphate in everyday rinse-off products like face cleansers, body washes, shampoos and baby washes. It also shows up in makeup removers, micellar waters, light lotions and creams where it helps oil and water stay blended while giving the formula a fresh, non-greasy feel.
Laureth-7 Phosphate’s Cosmetic Benefits/Uses
Formulators pick laureth-7 phosphate for two key reasons:
- Cleansing: Its surfactant nature lowers surface tension so water can lift away dirt, excess oil and makeup without harsh rubbing. It produces a soft, creamy lather that feels gentle on skin and hair.
- Emulsifying: The balanced water- and oil-friendly structure helps mix oils, silicones and actives evenly through a formula, keeping creams, lotions and gels smooth and stable during shelf life.
Who Can Use Laureth-7 Phosphate
Because it is generally mild and water soluble laureth-7 phosphate suits most skin types including oily, combination, normal and dry skin. Sensitive skin usually tolerates it as well though very reactive skins might feel a slight sting if the formula contains high levels or other strong surfactants.
The raw material is typically derived from coconut or palm kernel oil then fully synthesized so it is suitable for vegetarians and vegans. If total plant sourcing matters to you check with the brand to confirm no animal derived lauryl alcohol was used in their supply chain.
The ingredient has no known hormonal activity and absorbs poorly through intact skin so it is considered low risk for pregnant or breastfeeding women. This is not medical advice and anyone who is pregnant or nursing should run any skincare product past a doctor just to be safe.
Laureth-7 phosphate does not make skin more sensitive to sunlight and has no reported phototoxicity. It is also fragrance free and non volatile so it will not add a noticeable scent or irritate airways.
Potential Side Effects/Adverse Reactions
Side effects and reactions to topical laureth-7 phosphate can vary from person to person. The points below list potential issues yet they are uncommon when the ingredient is used correctly by the manufacturer and most people will not experience them.
- Mild skin irritation or redness especially on very sensitive or compromised skin
- Transient stinging if applied to freshly shaved or broken skin
- Dryness or tight feeling when used in high concentration or in formulas lacking moisturizers
- Eye irritation if the cleanser accidentally gets into the eyes
- Allergic contact dermatitis in rare individuals who develop a sensitization to the molecule
If you develop any persistent irritation stop using the product and consult a healthcare professional.
Comedogenic Rating
Rating: 1 / 5
Laureth-7 phosphate is highly water soluble and designed to rinse clean, so it is very unlikely to sit in pores or mix with skin oil long enough to cause blockages. Most rinse-off cleansers that use it leave almost no residue which further lowers the risk of clogged pores. For these reasons it earns a low comedogenic score of 1.
That makes it generally suitable for people who are prone to acne or breakouts.
Because products vary, formulas that pair this surfactant with heavy oils or waxes could still trigger congestion, so the full ingredient list matters more than any single component.
Summary
Laureth-7 phosphate serves mainly as a mild cleanser and a helper that keeps oil and water blended. Its small oily tail grabs onto grime while its larger water loving head lifts everything away, creating gentle foam and leaving skin or hair feeling fresh without a squeaky tightness.
It is not the most talked about ingredient but it shows up steadily in face washes, body washes, shampoos, micellar waters and light lotions because it works quietly and dependably behind the scenes.
Safety studies and years of consumer use point to a low irritation risk when it is used in typical amounts. Still every skin is different, so it is wise to patch test any new product that contains laureth-7 phosphate before using it all over.