Laureth-2 is a polyethylene glycol ether of lauryl alcohol used in skincare and cosmetic formulations primarily as a nonionic surfactant, emulsifier, and solubilizer. It helps blend oil and water phases and improve product texture rather than providing a direct therapeutic effect.
| Reported effect | How often | Notes |
|---|---|---|
Mild skin irritation | Uncommon | Possible with higher concentrations or on compromised skin barriers. |
Allergic contact dermatitis | Rare | Sensitization to ethoxylated surfactants has been reported in isolated cases. |
Eye irritation | Uncommon | Can cause stinging or redness if formulation contacts the eyes. |
1,4-dioxane contamination concern | Rare | Trace byproduct of ethoxylation; minimized by manufacturing purification, not a direct skin effect. |
Frequencies reflect typical cosmetic use reported in the literature, not a guarantee for your skin.