What Is Laureth-7 Citrate?
Laureth-7 Citrate is a nonionic surfactant created by attaching roughly seven units of ethylene oxide to lauryl alcohol, a fatty alcohol most often sourced from coconut or sustainable palm kernels, then esterifying the resulting molecule with citric acid. This combination gives the ingredient both oil-loving and water-loving parts so it can mingle with dirt or makeup while rinsing clean with water. Nonionic surfactants like this became popular in the 1960s when formulators sought milder alternatives to soap based cleansers. Production begins with natural lauryl alcohol, which is reacted with ethylene oxide under controlled temperature and pressure to obtain laureth-7. The product is then treated with food grade citric acid, yielding the citrate form that boosts water solubility and skin compatibility. Today you will spot Laureth-7 Citrate in facial cleansers, micellar waters, makeup removing wipes, gentle body washes, baby shampoos, exfoliating scrubs and some sheet masks where a low-foam but effective cleansing action is desirable.
Laureth-7 Citrate’s Cosmetic Benefits/Uses
Its primary role in cosmetics is straightforward yet essential
As a cleansing agent Laureth-7 Citrate binds to oils, sweat and environmental grime so these impurities can be lifted away when the product is rinsed off. Because it is nonionic it tends to be less irritating than many sulfate-based surfactants, helping formulas create a soft creamy lather that leaves skin or hair feeling clean but not stripped.
Who Can Use Laureth-7 Citrate
Laureth-7 Citrate is considered gentle enough for most skin types including oily, dry, combination and even sensitive skin thanks to its nonionic structure that cleans without harsh foaming. Extremely reactive or allergy-prone skin may still prefer a patch-free routine if any surfactant has caused issues in the past but, for the average user, this ingredient is mild.
The raw materials come from plant sources such as coconut or sustainable palm kernels so the finished ingredient is suitable for vegetarians and vegans when the manufacturer confirms no animal-derived processing aids were used.
Pregnant or breastfeeding women are not known to have special restrictions with Laureth-7 Citrate applied topically. This is not medical advice and anyone expecting or nursing should show product labels to a healthcare professional before use to be extra safe.
The ingredient does not make skin more sensitive to sunlight and there are no known fragrance or drug interactions worth noting for everyday cosmetic use.
Potential Side Effects/Adverse Reactions
Side effects from topical Laureth-7 Citrate vary by individual. The points below describe potential reactions but most people will not experience them when the ingredient is used correctly in a well-formulated product.
- Mild skin irritation very sensitive skin may feel a slight sting or tightness after rinsing
- Eye irritation if cleanser runs into the eyes temporary redness or watering can occur
- Contact dermatitis rare allergic response leading to itching rash or swelling
- Scalp dryness or flaking when used in shampoos users with very dry scalps could notice increased flakiness
If any of these effects occur discontinue use and consult a healthcare professional if symptoms persist or worsen.
Comedogenic Rating
Rating: 0–1 (low to non-comedogenic)
Laureth-7 Citrate is a water-soluble surfactant that is designed to rinse completely off the skin so it does not linger in pores long enough to clog them. Its molecular structure is bulky and hydrophilic which limits its ability to mix with skin sebum and form comedones. Formulas typically use it at low concentrations and in wash-off products, further lowering any clogging risk. Because of these factors it is generally suitable for people who are prone to acne or breakouts.
There are no published reports suggesting this ingredient traps bacteria in pores or worsens existing acne, though final comedogenicity always depends on the total formula and an individual’s unique skin chemistry.
Summary
Laureth-7 Citrate works as a gentle nonionic cleansing agent that lifts away oils dirt and makeup then rinses clean without stripping. Its dual oil-loving and water-loving structure lets it dissolve grime while staying mild on skin and hair.
Although not as famous as sulfates or coco-glucoside this ingredient appears in a quiet but steady stream of micellar waters, baby washes and sensitive-skin cleansers where low foam and softness are prized.
Current safety data and decades of cosmetic use show a very low risk profile with only occasional minor irritation in extremely reactive users. Still, everyone’s skin is different so it is smart to patch test any new product that contains Laureth-7 Citrate to be sure it suits your routine.