Laureth-12 is an important ingredient in the personal care industry and is widely used as an emulsifier and a surfactant. It has both hydrophilic (water-loving) and lipophilic (oil-loving) properties that help in blending oil and water-based ingredients and forming stable products. When used in cleansing formulations, it effectively lifts dirt and oil from skin and hair to be rinsed away with water. Laureth-12 enhances the foaming qualities of products like cleansers, shampoos, and bath products. It is also used to keep moisturizers, creams, serums, and conditioners stable over a longer period of time. This surfactant appears as a soft, white, waxy solid that is soluble in water. Laureth-12 is the INCI name of C12-14 alcohol ethoxylate, and its chemical formula is C36H74O.
Products with LAURETH-12
With samples available
Gransil EP-LS
by Grant Industries
Gransil LS-GA
by Grant Industries
What is LAURETH-12 used for?
In skin care: Laureth-12 offers mild cleansing and foaming properties in skin care products. Unlike other harsh surfactants in the market, it does not strip the skin of its moisture improves the user experience. Additionally, it helps create smooth and rich emulsions that are not heavy or greasy.
In hair care: Laureth-12 is widely used in shampoos to remove buildup and gently cleanse the scalp. It is popular due to its ability to remove excess oil from the scalp and hair without making them dry or brittle. The presence of Laureth-12 in shampoos, conditioners, and hair serums ensures that the product spreads evenly through hair for better performance.
Origin
Laureth-12 is derived from lauryl alcohol, which comes from natural sources like coconut or palm oil. Lauryl alcohol is reacted with 12 moles of ethylene oxide (ethoxylation) to form Laureth-12 - making it oil- and water-loving. The final ingredient is purified to remove potential contaminants like 1,4-dioxane.
What does LAURETH-12 do in a formulation?
EMULSIFYING|
SURFACTANT|
FOAMING|
CLEANSINGSafety Profile
Laureth-12 is safe for use in personal care products within the recommended concentration of 1-5%. It is non-irritating, non-sensitizing, and has a low hazard rating. However, it is important to source cosmetic-grade Laureth-12 that is purified of contaminants like 1,4-dioxane - a potential carcinogen. A patch test is recommended for first-time users. Additionally, Laureth-12 is biodegradable and is considered safe for the environment.
LAURETH-12 alternatives
LAURETH-12 technical profile
| Property | Values |
Boiling Point | 305°C (decomposes) |
Melting Point | 41°C - 45°C |
pH | 6.0 - 7.5 |
Solubility | Soluble in water |
Viscosity | Low to moderate |
Formulations with LAURETH-12
No data available
By Application
No data available