What Is Sodium Laureth-14 Carboxylate?
Sodium Laureth-14 Carboxylate is a synthetic cleansing agent made by attaching about fourteen units of ethylene oxide to lauryl alcohol, followed by a carboxymethyl step that turns it into a mild soap-like salt. The end result is a water-soluble powder or clear liquid that loves both oil and water, allowing it to mix the two with ease. It was introduced in the late 1980s as formulators searched for gentler alternatives to older sulfates that could irritate skin. Production begins with sustainably sourced coconut or palm kernel oil, which is converted to lauryl alcohol, then ethoxylated, carboxymethylated and finally neutralised with sodium hydroxide.
You will most often spot Sodium Laureth-14 Carboxylate in face and body cleansers, shampoos, bubble baths, makeup removers and specialty shaving creams. Its mildness also makes it popular in baby washes and sensitive skin formulas.
Sodium Laureth-14 Carboxylate’s Cosmetic Benefits/Uses
This ingredient earns its spot on labels because it improves the way a product cleans and feels during use
- Cleansing: Lifts away dirt, oil and leftover makeup so skin and hair feel fresh without a tight afterwash sensation
- Foaming: Creates a rich, creamy lather that spreads the cleanser evenly and gives users a satisfying, soft feel while rinsing
Who Can Use Sodium Laureth-14 Carboxylate
Sodium Laureth-14 Carboxylate is gentle enough for most skin types. Normal, oily, dry and even acne-prone skin usually tolerate it well because it cleans without stripping away too much natural oil. People with very reactive or eczema-prone skin may still feel a bit of tightness if the overall formula is too concentrated or left on the skin for long, so choosing products designed for sensitive skin is wise.
The ingredient is made from plant-based raw materials like coconut or palm kernels and no animal-derived additives are used, making it suitable for vegans and vegetarians. As always cruelty-free status depends on the finished brand’s policies, not the ingredient itself.
No studies show any risk linked to pregnancy or breastfeeding when the ingredient is used in rinse-off products such as cleansers or shampoos. Still, this is not medical advice and anyone who is pregnant or nursing should run all personal care products past a qualified physician to be safe.
Sodium Laureth-14 Carboxylate does not make skin more sensitive to sunlight and it has no known interactions with sunscreen filters or retinoids. It is fragrance free and pH balanced in most modern formulas, which helps lower the chance of stinging around the eyes.
Potential Side Effects/Adverse Reactions
How someone reacts to a topical ingredient can vary from person to person. The effects listed below are only potential issues and are unlikely to be the usual experience for most users when the product is well formulated and used as directed.
- Mild skin redness or itching, especially on very sensitive or broken skin
- Temporary dryness or tight feeling if the cleanser is left on too long or used too often
- Eye irritation or stinging when the foam gets into the eyes
- Rare allergic contact dermatitis marked by rash or swelling
If any of these reactions occur stop using the product and consult a qualified healthcare professional.
Comedogenic Rating
Rating: 0–1 (very low)
Sodium Laureth-14 Carboxylate is highly water soluble and designed for rinse-off formulas so it does not stay on the skin long enough to clog pores. Its molecular structure is large and ionic which keeps it from penetrating into sebaceous follicles. For these reasons it earns a score at the bottom of the scale.
Because of this low rating it is generally considered suitable for people who are prone to acne or breakouts.
As with most surfactants the final product’s overall formula matters; heavy oils or waxes paired with it could still contribute to congestion even though the surfactant itself does not.
Summary
Sodium Laureth-14 Carboxylate works as a gentle cleanser and foaming agent by surrounding oil and dirt with its water-loving and oil-loving ends then lifting the grime away when you rinse. The ethoxylated backbone softens its action compared with traditional sulfates so skin feels clean yet comfortable.
It shows up in many mass-market and niche cleansers shampoos and bath products because it balances mildness with a rich lather that consumers enjoy. It is not as famous as sodium laureth sulfate but formulators value it for sensitive skin lines and baby washes.
Safety data and decades of use indicate a low risk profile when used in rinse-off formats with only occasional reports of minor irritation. Still every skin is unique so performing a quick patch test with any new product is a smart precaution.