Snapshot
- Overview
- A mild surfactant that helps cleanse without a stripped feeling.
- Category
- Cleansing, Emulsifying
- Type
- Surfactant
Laureth-2
Laureth-2 is an ethoxylated lauryl alcohol averaging two EO units, classified as a nonionic surfactant. Formulations use it to boost wetting, light cleansing, and solubilization in rinse-off products, and to modify the feel of emulsions.
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Our take
Is Laureth-2 a Good Ingredient?
Rated Good because it's a stable, nonionic surfactant that effectively solubilizes and wets with a generally mild feel in rinse-off products. It balances cleansing performance with relatively low irritation for most users, which supports a solid but unremarkable rating.
What it does
Skin Benefits
Provides a mild cleanse that lifts surface oils and buildup without a heavy stripped feel, while improving formula glide.
Where you'll find it
Uses in Skincare & Cosmetics
Used in facial cleansers, micellar waters, and light lotions to help mix oils with water-based ingredients and improve slip in rinse-off products.
Before you use it
Safety
Low to moderate irritation is possible, especially at higher concentrations or near the eyes; rinse-off formats reduce this risk. Typically well tolerated, and reputable suppliers control residual processing impurities to very low levels.
Products with Laureth-2
