What Is Sodium Laureth-12 Carboxylate?
Sodium Laureth-12 Carboxylate is a synthetic cleanser made by linking natural lauryl alcohol, usually sourced from coconut or palm oil, to about twelve units of ethylene oxide. The chain is then modified by adding a carboxyl group and neutralizing it with sodium to create a water-soluble salt. Members of the laureth family first appeared in personal care products in the 1960s, but this carboxylated version became popular in the 1980s as brands looked for surfactants that cleaned well yet felt gentle on skin. Production involves three key steps: ethoxylation of lauryl alcohol, carboxylation of one end of the new molecule, and final neutralization. Because the finished ingredient dissolves readily in water and produces a soft, stable foam, it is widely used in facial cleansers, body washes, shampoos, bubble baths, micellar waters, baby washes and makeup-removing wipes.
Sodium Laureth-12 Carboxylate’s Cosmetic Benefits/Uses
This ingredient is valued mainly for one standout job in personal care formulas.
Cleansing: As a surfactant it lowers the surface tension of water so oils, dirt and product buildup can be lifted away and rinsed off easily. It produces a creamy foam that spreads smoothly, helping the product feel mild while still delivering a thorough clean that leaves skin or hair feeling fresh without a tight residue.
Who Can Use Sodium Laureth-12 Carboxylate
This cleanser is generally well tolerated by normal, oily and combination skin because it rinses clean without leaving heavy residue. Dry or very sensitive skin may notice a bit of tightness if the formula has a high percentage of the ingredient or lacks added moisturizers, so a richer cleanser may suit those complexions better.
Sodium Laureth-12 Carboxylate is made from plant sourced fatty alcohol and synthetic processing agents, not animal derived materials, so it is considered suitable for vegans and vegetarians. Always check the full ingredient list though, since other components in the finished product could contain animal by-products.
The compound has a long history of safe use in rinse off cosmetics, including baby washes, and current safety assessments have not flagged special risks for pregnant or breastfeeding women. This information does not replace medical advice, so anyone who is expecting or nursing should run new skincare purchases past a health professional just to be safe.
Unlike certain acids or retinoids, Sodium Laureth-12 Carboxylate does not make skin more sensitive to sunlight, so it is not considered photosensitizing. Everyday sun protection is still recommended for overall skin health.
Potential Side Effects/Adverse Reactions
Responses to any cosmetic ingredient can differ from person to person. The effects listed below are only potential outcomes and most users will not experience them when the product is well formulated and used as directed.
- Temporary skin dryness – excessive cleansing or very high concentrations can strip natural oils leading to a tight or flaky feel
- Mild irritation or redness – rare but possible in those with highly reactive or compromised skin barriers
- Eye stinging – if the product accidentally gets into the eyes it can cause brief discomfort until rinsed away
- Contact dermatitis – an allergic reaction presenting as itching or rash is uncommon yet possible in sensitized individuals
- Scalp sensitivity – prolonged contact in shampoos may trigger itching or dryness on fragile scalps
If any of these effects occur stop using the product and consult a healthcare professional if symptoms persist or worsen.
Comedogenic Rating
Rating: 0–1 (very low). Sodium Laureth-12 Carboxylate is highly water soluble, creates no oily film and is designed to lift residue off the skin then rinse away completely. Because it does not sit on the surface or clog pores, it earns a near-zero score on the comedogenic scale. Rinse-off products reduce contact time even further, so buildup is unlikely.
Suitable for acne-prone or breakout-prone skin.
As with any cleanser, over-washing or combining it with heavy occlusive ingredients could still contribute to congestion, but the ingredient itself is not the culprit.
Summary
Sodium Laureth-12 Carboxylate is a gentle synthetic surfactant whose main job is cleansing. It lowers water’s surface tension so dirt, sebum and product residue can be lifted into the lather and carried down the drain. Its twelve ethylene oxide units make it readily water soluble, while the carboxylate head adds mildness and helps create that creamy foam people enjoy.
The ingredient is a workhorse in modern personal care, popping up in everything from face washes to baby shampoos, though it is often hidden in the middle of the label rather than marketed as a star feature. Brands favor it because it balances effective cleaning with a soft skin feel and plays nicely with other surfactants.
Current safety reviews categorize it as low risk in rinse-off formulas. Most users tolerate it well, including pregnant or breastfeeding individuals, vegans and sensitive audiences when used in balanced blends. As with any new skincare product, do a quick patch test first to make sure your skin agrees.