What Is Sodium Laureth-5 Carboxylate?
Sodium Laureth-5 Carboxylate is a mild, water-soluble surfactant made by attaching about five units of ethylene oxide to lauryl alcohol, then adding a carboxylate group and neutralizing it with sodium. The lauryl alcohol usually comes from coconut or palm kernel oil, giving the ingredient a plant-derived backbone. First introduced in the late 1980s as brands searched for gentler foaming agents than traditional sulfates, it quickly gained popularity for its low irritation profile.
Manufacturing starts with fatty alcohols that are reacted with ethylene oxide to build the “ Laureth-5” part. Next those chains are modified with chloroacetic acid to add the carboxylate head, then neutralized with sodium hydroxide to create the final salt. The result is a clear to pale yellow liquid that mixes easily with water and other ingredients.
You will most often see Sodium Laureth-5 Carboxylate in facial cleansers, body washes, baby shampoos, micellar waters and gentle makeup removers. It can also appear in bubble baths, foaming hand soaps and some cream cleansers where a soft, cushiony lather is desired.
Sodium Laureth-5 Carboxylate’s Cosmetic Benefits/Uses
This ingredient offers more than one benefit when added to a formula
- Cleansing: Its surfactant structure surrounds dirt, oil and makeup so they can be rinsed away with water, leaving skin feeling fresh without a tight after-feel
- Foaming: It produces a fine, stable foam that makes cleansing products feel rich and luxurious while helping users spread the product evenly across skin or hair
Who Can Use Sodium Laureth-5 Carboxylate
Sodium Laureth-5 Carboxylate is considered gentle enough for most skin types. Normal, oily and combination skin usually tolerate it well because it removes excess oil without stripping. Dry and sensitive skin often find it milder than stronger sulfate surfactants, though those with very reactive skin should still watch for any tightness or redness after use. It is generally safe for acne-prone skin because it does not leave heavy residue that can clog pores.
The ingredient is made from plant-derived fatty alcohols and is neutralized with mineral-based sodium, so it is suitable for vegans and vegetarians. No animal by-products are used in its manufacture.
Current research shows no evidence that Sodium Laureth-5 Carboxylate is harmful during pregnancy or while breastfeeding when used in rinse-off products. Still, this is not medical advice and pregnant or nursing individuals should review any skincare product with their healthcare provider to be sure it fits their personal situation.
It does not cause photosensitivity, so it will not make skin more prone to sunburn. There are no known ingredient interactions that limit its use in typical rinse-off cleansers.
Potential Side Effects/Adverse Reactions
Side effects from topical use of Sodium Laureth-5 Carboxylate can vary from person to person. The points below list potential reactions but they are unlikely for most users when the ingredient is properly formulated in a product.
- Mild skin irritation such as redness or stinging, especially on very sensitive skin
- Temporary dryness or tight feeling if used in high concentrations or left on skin too long
- Eye irritation if the product accidentally gets into the eyes
- Allergic contact dermatitis in rare cases for individuals with specific sensitivities
If any discomfort, rash or swelling develops while using a product that contains Sodium Laureth-5 Carboxylate, stop using it immediately and consult a healthcare professional.
Comedogenic Rating
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Sodium Laureth-5 Carboxylate is a fully water-soluble surfactant that rinses away without leaving an oily or waxy film on the skin. Because it does not linger or trap sebum and dead cells it carries virtually no risk of clogging pores.
It is therefore considered suitable for acne-prone skin.
Its quick rinse-off nature can even help sweep away more stubborn residues from other ingredients making it unlikely to contribute to buildup over time.
Summary
Sodium Laureth-5 Carboxylate works as a mild cleanser and foaming agent. Its ethoxylated lauryl chain loosens dirt oil and makeup while the carboxylate head helps suspend these impurities so they wash off easily leaving skin clean yet comfortable.
Favored for its soft cushiony lather and low irritation profile it appears in many gentle face washes body washes and baby shampoos although it remains less famous than classic sulfates.
Studies and decades of use point to a strong safety record with minimal risk when the ingredient is used in rinse-off products. Still when you try any new product containing it doing a quick patch test is a smart way to be sure your skin stays happy.