Science
Mechanism of Action
This ingredient functions by reducing the surface tension of cosmetic products, ensuring uniform distribution. It possesses cleansing capabilities, aiding in the removal of lipid and particulate matter from dermal and hair surfaces. Additionally, it serves as an emulsifying agent, facilitating the stable dispersion of immiscible liquids by modifying their interfacial tension, and is recognized for its foaming properties.
Research
Clinical Evidence
Low confidenceN/A
Transparency
Dusting Analysis
The Formula
Formulation
Stability
The ingredient performs optimally within a pH range of 5.0 to 7.0, acting as a nonionic compound under acidic conditions and a hard water-tolerant anionic agent under alkaline conditions. It demonstrates robust physico-chemical stability, including stability in hard water and hypochlorite solutions.
Conflicts
- Anionic surfactants, such as Laureth-5 Carboxylic Acid, may interact with cationic active ingredients or preservatives, potentially decreasing their effectiveness or compromising formulation stability.
- Surfactants can diminish the bioavailability or efficacy of actives that rely on direct interaction with skin, hair, or microbial targets.
- The effective concentration of preservatives can be reduced by surfactants through micellar entrapment or ionic binding, which may lead to compromised microbial challenge test results.
Safety
Safety Profile
The CIR Expert Panel considers 'Laureth ingredients,' including Laureth-5, safe for cosmetic use when formulations are designed to be non-irritating. The compound carries a potential for skin irritation, necessitating careful formulation. Minor amounts of 1,4-dioxane, a by-product of ethoxylation, may be present but are controllable through purification processes. Specific SCCS or FDA statuses for this ingredient in cosmetic use were not detailed in the provided data.
Your Skin
Skin Compatibility
Our Assessment
Verdict
Laureth-5 Carboxylic Acid is a versatile surfactant and emulsifier crucial for cleansing formulations, requiring precise development to ensure optimal performance, non-irritancy, and compatibility with other ingredients.
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