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Moumoujus

LAURETH-9.

Valuable CAS 3055-99-0 / 9002-92-0 / 68439-50-9 / SURFACTANT - EMULSIFYING

Laureth-9 is an ethoxylated fatty alcohol that functions primarily as a non-ionic surfactant and emulsifier, crucial for stabilizing complex formulations. Beyond its textural contributions, it offers clinically demonstrated anti-itch properties, providing comfort for sensitive and irritated skin.

Summary

Emulsifying Agent Surfactant Antipruritic Viscosity Modifier Foaming Agent

Science

Mechanism of Action

As a non-ionic surfactant, Laureth-9 possesses both hydrophilic and hydrophobic moieties, allowing it to effectively reduce interfacial tension between immiscible phases like oil and water. This enables the formation and stabilization of oil-in-water emulsions, while also modifying rheological properties such as viscosity. Additionally, Laureth-9 exhibits notable antipruritic effects, alleviating itching sensations often associated with conditions like eczema and dry skin, along with some local anesthetic capabilities.

Research

Clinical Evidence

Medium confidence
Effective range ≤3%
Optimal

3%

Transparency

Dusting Analysis

Not commonly dusted

Data for dusting analysis is not available for Laureth-9 in the provided research.

The Formula

Formulation

Solubility
Water
Optimal pH 6 – 7.5
0 7 14

Stability

Laureth-9 is highly soluble in water and low aliphatic alcohols. It exhibits good stability in acidic conditions but is susceptible to hydrolysis and decomposition in highly alkaline (high pH) environments. The ingredient maintains its integrity under high temperatures, in hard water, and when exposed to oxidizing or reducing agents.

Conflicts

  • High (alkaline) pH environments (>7.5) due to potential hydrolysis.

Safety

Safety Profile

CIR Status
Safe with restrictions
Max tested
3%
Sensitization risk Low

The Cosmetic Ingredient Review (CIR) Expert Panel and the Scientific Committee on Consumer Products (SCCS) have concluded Laureth-9 is safe for use in cosmetics when formulated to be non-irritating. The SCCS specifically determined low toxicity and no risk to consumer health at concentrations up to 3% in leave-on products and 4% in rinse-off products. Trace amounts of 1,4-dioxane, an ethoxylation byproduct, may be present but can be controlled through purification processes. Direct FDA approval is not typically granted for individual cosmetic ingredients, which are regulated as part of the overall cosmetic product.

Your Skin

Skin Compatibility

Yes Normal
Yes Dry
Yes Oily
Yes Sensitive
Irritancy Low
Comedogenicity Unknown

Our Assessment

Verdict

Valuable

Laureth-9 is a valuable ingredient for its dual functionality as an effective emulsifier and a clinically proven anti-itch agent, enhancing both product stability and skin comfort, particularly for sensitive and irritated skin types.

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