LAURETH-9

Lauryl alcohol obtained from natural fatty alcohols or from mineral oil is reacted with ethylene oxide to produce Laureth-9.

Laureth-9 is an emulsifier and a surfactant used in cosmetics and personal care products. The ingredients named, ‘laureth’, are polyoxyethers of lauryl alcohol. The number in the name indicates the average number of units of ethylene oxide in the molecule. Laureth-9 also exhibits anesthetic and anti-itch properties.

Laureth-9 works as an emulsifier and surfactant, particularly in shampoos and hair conditioners (rinse-off products) usually at a concentration of 4%. It is also used in leave-on products like face and body creams at a concentration of 3%. It relieves itching caused by eczema and dry skin due to its anti-itch properties.

Small amounts of 1,4-dioxane, a by-product of ethoxylation, may be found in the laureth-9 ingredient.