Laureth-2
A non-ionic emulsifier. It blends oil and water and keeps the formula uniform. Well tolerated.
Supporting ingredient
It gives a product its texture, stability or shelf life. It has no claimed effect on the skin, so an efficacy tier does not apply. What is known about its safety is below
Tolerability and safety
- Irritation potential
- Low
- Allergen risk
- Low
- Pregnancy
- Safe
- Suitable for
- Normal, Dry, Combination, Oily, Sensitive
About this ingredient
Laureth-2 is a non-ionic ethoxylated surfactant derived from lauryl alcohol with two ethylene oxide units. Its low degree of ethoxylation makes it more lipophilic, so it is used mainly as an emulsifier for the oil phase and as a helper to keep the formula uniform. It is a functional component, not a care active. It does not treat the skin or give direct cosmetic benefit; its role is structural, helping the emulsion resist separation. It is usually combined with other emulsifiers to tune stability. For topical use there is no meaningful systemic absorption, so it can be used during pregnancy and breastfeeding without restriction. It is well tolerated. Irritation and allergy potential are low, and as a surfactant it is rated mild (MILD). At usual concentrations it rarely dries or irritates, and it suits sensitive skin within a well-balanced formula.
Frequently asked questions
Is Laureth-2 safe during pregnancy?
Laureth-2 is considered safe during pregnancy at typical cosmetic concentrations. Systemic absorption through the skin is minimal.
What skin types is Laureth-2 for?
Laureth-2 suits: normal, dry, combination, oily, sensitive.
What is Laureth-2 and what does it do in cosmetics?
A non-ionic emulsifier.
What's the INCI name for Laureth-2?
The INCI name is Laureth-2.
See Laureth-2 in a product composition right on the store page
The Evigrade extension adds an evidence panel to iHerb, Sephora, Druni and 12 more stores. This ingredient and every other one in the product show evidence-tier, allergen risk and pregnancy/lactation flags at a glance.
Similar role in the formula
Other functional ingredients
Laureth-23, Laureth-3, Laureth-4, Laureth-7, Poloxamer 235, Sodium Laurate, Alpha-Terpinene, Citrus Medica Vulgaris Fruit Extract
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