Laureth-4
A non-ionic emulsifier and co-surfactant. It helps blend oil and water and dissolves ingredients. Well tolerated at cosmetic levels.
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-4 is an ethoxylated ether of lauryl alcohol that works as a nonionic emulsifier and co-surfactant. It helps combine water and oil, dissolves oil-soluble components such as fragrance and actives, and improves cleansing in formulas that blend both phases. This is a functional ingredient, not a skincare active. Its role is structural: it stabilizes and solubilizes rather than treating skin. So it is judged by how it holds the formula, not by a direct cosmetic effect. Applied topically it has no systemic relevance, so it can be used during pregnancy and breastfeeding. Tolerance is good. The risk of irritation and allergy is low, so it suits sensitive skin. At usual cosmetic proportions most people show no reaction.
Frequently asked questions
Is Laureth-4 safe during pregnancy?
Laureth-4 is considered safe during pregnancy at typical cosmetic concentrations. Systemic absorption through the skin is minimal.
What skin types is Laureth-4 for?
Laureth-4 suits: normal, dry, combination, oily, sensitive.
What is Laureth-4 and what does it do in cosmetics?
A non-ionic emulsifier and co-surfactant.
What's the INCI name for Laureth-4?
The INCI name is Laureth-4.
See Laureth-4 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-7, Laureth-9, Lauric Acid, Lauroyl Lysine, Polyacrylamide, Sodium Lauroamphoacetate, Aluminum/Magnesium Hydroxide Stearate, Cocamide MEA
Published: · updated: