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Comprehensive Cosmetic Industry Ingredient Guide

THIS IS A UNIVERSAL REFERENCE GUIDE FOR EDUCATIONAL PURPOSES

THE INGRIDIENT BELOW IS NOT USED IN MITOSKIN FORMULATION UNLESS STATED OTHERWISE

Ingredient
Laureth-3

Laureth-3

Summary

Laureth-3 is a versatile cosmetic ingredient that is commonly used as a surfactant, emulsifier, and solubilizer in a wide range of personal care products. It is known for its ability to improve the texture and feel of formulations, while also enhancing the delivery of active ingredients to the skin. With its mild and non-irritating properties, Laureth-3 is a popular choice for use in products designed for sensitive skin. Its excellent compatibility with other ingredients makes it a valuable addition to many cosmetic formulations, including shampoos, conditioners, body washes, and facial cleansers. Overall, Laureth-3 is a highly effective and versatile ingredient that can help to improve the performance and sensory experience of a wide range of personal care products.

INCI Name and Common References

INCI Name: Laureth-3 Common Terms: Polyethylene glycol ether of lauryl alcohol Nicknames: None

Function

Laureth-3 is an emulsifier and surfactant that is commonly used in cosmetic formulations. It helps to mix oil and water-based ingredients together, creating a smooth and consistent texture. It also helps to improve the spreadability and absorption of products, making them easier to apply and more effective. Additionally, Laureth-3 can act as a cleansing agent, helping to remove dirt and impurities from the skin or hair. Overall, Laureth-3 plays an important role in creating high-quality, effective cosmetic products.

Science

Laureth-3 is a surfactant that works by reducing the surface tension of liquids. It is composed of a hydrophilic (water-loving) head and a hydrophobic (water-repelling) tail. When added to water, the hydrophobic tails of laureth-3 align themselves towards the air, while the hydrophilic heads align themselves towards the water. This creates a layer of molecules at the surface of the liquid that reduces the surface tension, allowing the liquid to spread more easily. In skincare products, laureth-3 is used to help emulsify and stabilize oil and water-based ingredients, allowing them to mix together evenly.

Benefits

Laureth-3 is a surfactant commonly used in skincare products. It helps to cleanse the skin by removing dirt, oil, and impurities. It also helps to create a smooth and creamy texture in products. However, there are no significant skincare benefits associated with this ingredient.

Negatives

Laureth-3 is a common ingredient found in many personal care products such as shampoos, body washes, and facial cleansers. While it is generally considered safe for use, there are some potential side effects, sensitivities, and interactions that should be taken into consideration. One possible side effect of laureth-3 is skin irritation. This can occur in individuals with sensitive skin or those who are allergic to the ingredient. Symptoms of skin irritation may include redness, itching, and swelling. Laureth-3 may also interact with other ingredients found in personal care products. For example, it may react with certain preservatives or fragrances, leading to skin irritation or other adverse reactions. Individuals with eczema or other skin conditions may be more sensitive to laureth-3 and should use products containing this ingredient with caution. It is also important to note that laureth-3 may be derived from petroleum, which may be a concern for individuals who prefer to use natural or organic products. Overall, while laureth-3 is generally considered safe for use in personal care products, it is important to be aware of potential side effects, sensitivities, and interactions with other ingredients. If you experience any adverse reactions while using products containing laureth-3, discontinue use and consult with a healthcare professional.

Source

Laureth-3 is a synthetic ingredient that is derived from ethoxylated lauryl alcohol. It is commonly used as a surfactant and emulsifier in personal care products such as shampoos, body washes, and facial cleansers. The processing pathway of Laureth-3 involves the reaction of lauryl alcohol with ethylene oxide, which results in the formation of ethoxylated lauryl alcohol. The number of ethylene oxide units added to the lauryl alcohol determines the specific type of Laureth compound produced. Laureth-3 is created by adding three units of ethylene oxide to lauryl alcohol. The resulting compound is then purified and used in various personal care products.

Safety

Laureth-3 has a moderate safety rating score based on other rating systems such as EWG Skin Deep. It has been rated as a 4 out of 10 on the EWG Skin Deep database, indicating that it may have some potential health concerns. However, it is important to note that the safety of Laureth-3 may vary depending on the concentration and usage in a product. It is always recommended to read product labels and consult with a healthcare professional if you have any concerns about the safety of a particular ingredient.

Sustainability

Laureth-3 is a surfactant commonly used in personal care and cleaning products. It is derived from ethylene oxide and lauryl alcohol, both of which are petrochemicals. The production of petrochemicals has a significant environmental impact, including air and water pollution, greenhouse gas emissions, and habitat destruction. In terms of ethical sourcing practices, there are concerns about the potential for human rights abuses in the petrochemical industry, particularly in countries with weak labor laws and regulations. Additionally, the use of petrochemicals contributes to the global dependence on fossil fuels, which has been linked to environmental and social injustices. While there are efforts to reduce the environmental impact of petrochemical production and to promote ethical sourcing practices, the use of Laureth-3 and other petrochemical-derived ingredients remains a contentious issue in the personal care and cleaning product industries. Consumers can look for products that use alternative, more sustainable ingredients or that have certifications indicating responsible sourcing practices.

Conclusion

In conclusion, Laureth-3 is a surfactant commonly used in personal care products due to its ability to emulsify and cleanse. While it has been shown to be safe for use in cosmetics, there are concerns about its potential to irritate the skin and eyes. It can be derived from natural sources such as coconut oil, but it is often produced synthetically. In terms of sustainability, there are no major concerns as it is biodegradable and does not accumulate in the environment. Overall, Laureth-3 is a useful ingredient in personal care products, but it is important to use it in moderation and be aware of any potential side effects.

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