What Is Laureth-13 Pg-Hydroxyethylcellulose?
Laureth-13 Pg-Hydroxyethylcellulose is a modified form of cellulose, the natural fiber that makes up the cell walls of plants. Chemists start with plant-sourced cellulose and attach two helpful extras: a chain of ethylene oxide units known as laureth-13 and a propylene glycol (PG) link. These additions give the material a soft, silky feel in water and let it mix oil and water more easily than plain cellulose ever could.
The ingredient first appeared in the late twentieth century when formulators wanted milder alternatives to harsh detergents. By grafting gentle polyethylene glycol chains onto hydroxyethylcellulose, they created a compound that cleans without stripping and stabilizes lotions without heavy waxes. Production begins with purified cellulose that is reacted with ethylene oxide and a small amount of lauryl alcohol, then neutralized and filtered to remove impurities. The final powder or slurry dissolves quickly in water, forming a clear, slightly thick solution.
You will spot Laureth-13 Pg-Hydroxyethylcellulose in facial cleansers, creamy body washes, micellar waters, hydrating sheet masks, lightweight moisturizers, scalp scrubs and even in some sunscreens where it helps keep the formula uniform.
Laureth-13 Pg-Hydroxyethylcellulose’s Cosmetic Benefits/Uses
This multitasker improves both how a product works and how it feels on the skin.
- Cleansing: Lifts away dirt, excess oil and makeup while staying gentle enough for sensitive or dry skin. Its mild foam leaves skin comfortable rather than tight.
- Emulsifying: Keeps oil and water blended so creams stay smooth, serums stay clear and the active ingredients remain evenly distributed from the first pump to the last.
Who Can Use Laureth-13 Pg-Hydroxyethylcellulose
This gentle polymer suits most skin types including oily, dry, combination and sensitive because it cleans without harsh surfactants and does not leave a heavy residue. Extremely reactive or allergy-prone skin should still proceed with caution since even mild ingredients can occasionally cause irritation when other factors like compromised skin barriers are present.
It is plant-derived and manufactured without animal by-products so it is considered appropriate for both vegetarians and vegans.
No specific safety flags exist for women who are pregnant or breastfeeding. Current data show it stays on the skin’s surface and is not absorbed in meaningful amounts, making it an unlikely concern. This is not medical advice and pregnant or nursing individuals should consult their healthcare provider before adding any new skincare product just to be safe.
Laureth-13 Pg-Hydroxyethylcellulose does not create photosensitivity, so ordinary daytime use will not make skin more susceptible to sunburn. It also plays well with common actives like vitamin C, niacinamide and retinoids since it is chemically inert.
Potential Side Effects/Adverse Reactions
Reactions to topical Laureth-13 Pg-Hydroxyethylcellulose differ from person to person. The effects listed below are only potential issues and are unlikely for most users when the ingredient is properly formulated.
- Mild skin redness or itching in individuals who are sensitive to polyethylene glycol derivatives
- Transient eye stinging if a cleanser containing it is not fully rinsed from the eye area
- Contact dermatitis in rare cases where the user is allergic to ethoxylated compounds
If irritation or any other unwanted reaction occurs discontinue use and consult a healthcare professional.
Comedogenic Rating
Rating: 1/5
Laureth-13 Pg-Hydroxyethylcellulose is a water-soluble polymer that sits on the surface of skin, does not clog pores and rinses away cleanly. Its cleansing and emulsifying roles rely on attracting both oil and water which helps lift sebum rather than trapping it. Because it is not oily or waxy, the chance of it blocking follicles is very low, earning it a score of 1 rather than a perfect 0 only to reflect the fact that no ingredient is risk-free for every single person.
This makes it generally suitable for people who are prone to acne or breakouts.
Formulas that pair this polymer with heavy plant oils, butters or silicones could still feel rich, so pore-clogging issues are more likely to stem from the overall product blend than from Laureth-13 Pg-Hydroxyethylcellulose itself.
Summary
Laureth-13 Pg-Hydroxyethylcellulose cleanses by surrounding dirt and oil so they can be rinsed away, and it emulsifies by holding oil and water together which keeps creams smooth and clear. These two jobs improve both performance and texture without adding heaviness.
While not as famous as hyaluronic acid or glycerin, this ingredient is a quiet workhorse found in many modern cleansers, lightweight lotions and micellar waters where a gentle touch is prized.
Current safety data show it has a low risk of irritation, is not likely to clog pores and does not build up in the body. As with any new skincare product it is wise to patch test first to make sure your skin agrees with the full formula.