What Is Sodium Laureth-13 Carboxylate?
Sodium Laureth-13 Carboxylate is a gentle surfactant made from fatty alcohols that usually come from coconut or palm kernel oil. Chemists react these natural oils with ethylene oxide to add thirteen units of oxygen-rich “EO” groups, then attach a carboxylate group and neutralize the mix with sodium hydroxide. The result is a water-friendly powder or liquid that dissolves fast and lowers the surface tension of water.
The ingredient appeared in the late 1980s when formulators looked for milder options than traditional sulfates. Its balanced structure lets it clean without stripping skin or hair which quickly made it popular in everyday rinse-off products. You will find it in shampoos, body washes, facial cleansers, baby washes, bubble baths, shaving foams, micellar waters and even some lightweight lotions where a bit of foam or extra rinse-off slip is helpful.
Sodium Laureth-13 Carboxylate’s Cosmetic Benefits/Uses
This versatile ingredient supports several key jobs inside a formula
- Cleansing: Lifts dirt, oil and product buildup so they rinse away with water leaving skin or hair feeling fresh
- Foaming: Produces a rich stable lather that users associate with effective cleaning which also helps spread the product evenly
- Emulsifying: Helps water mix with oils or silicone phases so the product stays uniform during storage and use
Who Can Use Sodium Laureth-13 Carboxylate
This surfactant is generally well tolerated by most skin types, including normal, oily, combination and even many sensitive skins thanks to its mild nature. Those with very dry or compromised barriers may want to pair it with richer emollients because any cleanser can feel slightly drying if used too often or at high strength.
The raw materials typically come from coconut or palm kernels so the finished ingredient is suitable for vegans and vegetarians. Ethical buyers may wish to look for brands that specify sustainably sourced or RSPO certified palm oil to reduce environmental impact.
Available safety data indicate that Sodium Laureth-13 Carboxylate is not known to pose risks for pregnant or breastfeeding women when used in rinse-off personal care products. This is not medical advice and anyone who is expecting or nursing should always check new products with their doctor to be on the safe side.
The ingredient does not cause photosensitivity and will not make skin more prone to sunburn. It is also commonly found in baby washes so it is considered gentle enough for children when formulated correctly.
Potential Side Effects/Adverse Reactions
Reactions to topical Sodium Laureth-13 Carboxylate differ from person to person. The points below outline potential side effects that can occur even though most users experience none when the product is well formulated and used as directed.
- Transient eye irritation if the cleanser gets into the eyes before rinsing
- Mild skin dryness or tightness especially in people with already dry or dehydrated skin when the formula lacks added moisturizers
- Low-grade irritation such as slight redness or itching on very sensitive or compromised skin
- Rare allergic contact dermatitis presenting as persistent redness, itching or small bumps
- Color fading in dyed hair if used in high concentrations or with prolonged contact time
If you experience any of these effects discontinue use and seek advice from a healthcare professional or dermatologist.
Comedogenic Rating
Rating: 1 / 5
Sodium Laureth-13 Carboxylate is highly water soluble and designed to rinse away without leaving an oily film that could clog pores. While it does come from fatty alcohols the ethoxylation and carboxylate steps strip away the heavy, waxy traits that normally trigger breakouts. For this reason it sits at the very low end of the comedogenic scale.
Most people prone to acne or blackheads can use products containing this surfactant without added risk. Only in very rare cases where a formula is left on the skin or combined with heavier occlusive ingredients might congestion occur.
No studies suggest it promotes fungal acne and it is often paired with anti acne actives because it cleans gently without residue.
Summary
Sodium Laureth-13 Carboxylate acts mainly as a cleanser, foaming agent and light emulsifier. By lowering water’s surface tension it lifts oils and grime so they wash away, its ethoxylated chain helps whip up a stable lather that spreads product evenly and its carboxylate head lets water blend with oil droplets so formulas stay uniform.
It found its place in the late eighties sulfate alternative wave and still shows up in many mainstream shampoos, body washes, baby cleansers and micellar waters. Users appreciate its mild feel and creamy foam though it is not as famous as ingredients like coco glucoside.
Current safety data rate it as low-risk for irritation or health concerns when used in rinse-off products. Even so everyone’s skin is different so it is wise to patch test any new product that lists this surfactant before full use.