Laureth-4 – Non-Ionic Surfactant, Emulsifier & Solubiliser for Cosmetic Formulations

Laureth-4 is a versatile non-ionic surfactant used to improve the blending of oil and water-based ingredients in cosmetic and personal-care formulations.

It functions as an emulsifier, co-emulsifier, dispersing agent and solubiliser. Laureth-4 is especially useful in cleansing oils, self-emulsifying bath oils, creams, lotions and cleansing products where it helps oils disperse more effectively when they come into contact with water.

Its relatively low foaming profile makes it suitable for formulations where gentle cleansing, oil dispersion and an elegant rinse-off feel are required.

Why Formulators Use Laureth-4

  • Helps oils disperse when rinsed with water
  • Supports the formation and stability of cosmetic emulsions
  • Functions as a non-ionic surfactant and co-emulsifier
  • Useful for creating self-emulsifying cleansing and bath oils
  • Helps solubilise selected oils, fragrances and oil-soluble ingredients
  • Produces relatively low levels of foam
  • Compatible with many other non-ionic and ionic surfactants
  • Suitable for skincare, haircare, cleansing and bath formulations

Product Information

INCI: Laureth-4
Ingredient type: Non-ionic surfactant, emulsifier, co-emulsifier and solubiliser
Appearance: Clear to slightly cloudy liquid, soft paste or semi-solid material depending on temperature and supplier grade
Typical starting use level: 1–5%
HLB value: Approximately 9.7
Solubility: Dispersible in water and compatible with many oils, surfactants and cosmetic solvents
Recommended addition: Add to the oil phase or surfactant phase and mix until completely uniform

The most appropriate concentration will depend on the oil phase, desired texture, rinse-off performance and the other emulsifiers or surfactants used in the formulation.

How to Use

Laureth-4 can normally be incorporated into the oil phase or combined with the other surfactants in the formulation.

If the material becomes thick or semi-solid at a cool room temperature, warm it gently until fluid before weighing and mixing. Ensure it is completely and evenly incorporated before continuing with the formulation.

For emulsions, Laureth-4 is generally used as part of a wider emulsifier system rather than automatically being relied upon as the only emulsifier.

For anhydrous cleansing oils or bath oils, combine it with the selected oils and test how well the finished product disperses when added to water.

Example Calculation

For a 100 g formulation using Laureth-4 at 3%:

Laureth-4 required: 3 g

For a 1 kg formulation using Laureth-4 at 3%:

Laureth-4 required: 30 g

Suitable Formulation Types

Laureth-4 can be used in:

  • Cleansing oils
  • Self-emulsifying facial cleansers
  • Bath oils
  • Shower oils
  • Creams and lotions
  • Cleansing creams
  • Makeup-removing products
  • Facial and body washes
  • Shampoo formulations
  • Hair conditioners
  • Scalp-cleansing products
  • Massage oils designed to rinse away with water

Formulation Ideas

Self-Emulsifying Cleansing Oil

Use Laureth-4 as part of the surfactant system to help the cleansing oil turn milky when water is added and rinse more effectively from the skin.

Dispersible Bath Oil

Combine Laureth-4 with cosmetic oils and emollients to help the oil disperse throughout bath water rather than remaining entirely on the surface.

Cleansing Cream

Use Laureth-4 alongside a suitable primary emulsifier to support oil dispersion and improve makeup-removing performance.

Rinse-Off Massage Oil

Add Laureth-4 to an anhydrous massage-oil base to create a product that emulsifies during rinsing and leaves less oily residue.

Formulation Tips

  • Begin with a small trial batch to establish the required oil-to-surfactant ratio.
  • Use Laureth-4 as part of a complete emulsification system when producing creams and lotions.
  • Warm gently if the ingredient is too thick to weigh or mix accurately.
  • Test the finished product at both warm and cool storage temperatures.
  • Excessive use may increase cleansing strength or cause irritation, so use only the amount required.
  • Check compatibility with the selected oils, emulsifiers, preservatives and active ingredients.
  • Confirm the stability and appearance of transparent formulations, as Laureth-4 may produce cloudiness in some systems.
  • Follow the supplier’s technical documentation for the specific grade supplied.

Is Laureth-4 a Complete Emulsifier?

Laureth-4 can provide emulsifying and oil-dispersing properties, but it should not automatically be treated as a complete standalone emulsifier for every formulation.

The required emulsifier system will depend on the size and composition of the oil phase, the type of product, processing method and desired stability. Commercial emulsions should undergo appropriate stability testing before sale.

Storage

Store tightly closed in a cool, dry and well-ventilated place. Protect from moisture, direct sunlight and excessive heat.

Laureth-4 may become thicker, cloudy or semi-solid at lower temperatures. This physical change may be reversible with gentle warming and does not necessarily indicate that the material has deteriorated.

Important Information

This is a cosmetic raw material intended for formulation use. It is not a finished cosmetic product and should not be applied directly to the skin in its supplied form.

For external cosmetic formulation use only. Avoid contact with the eyes. Keep out of reach of children. Wear suitable protective equipment when handling raw materials.

The formulator is responsible for determining the appropriate use level and assessing the safety, stability, preservation and regulatory compliance of the finished formulation.

Frequently Asked Questions

What is Laureth-4 used for?

Laureth-4 is used as a non-ionic surfactant, emulsifier, co-emulsifier and solubilising ingredient. It is particularly useful for helping oils disperse or rinse away with water.

Can Laureth-4 be used in a cleansing oil?

Yes. Laureth-4 can help an anhydrous cleansing oil emulsify and turn milky when water is added. The required amount will depend on the selected oils and desired rinse-off performance.

Can Laureth-4 be used as the only emulsifier?

It may provide sufficient emulsification in some simple systems, but it should generally be evaluated as part of a complete emulsifier system. Stability testing is essential.

Does Laureth-4 produce foam?

Laureth-4 is a surfactant, but it is generally selected for emulsification and oil dispersion rather than for producing high levels of foam.

Why has my Laureth-4 become thick or cloudy?

Its consistency can change with temperature. At cooler temperatures, Laureth-4 may become thick, cloudy or semi-solid. Gentle warming and mixing will usually make it easier to handle.

Is Laureth-4 suitable for cold-process formulations?

It may be incorporated without high-temperature processing when it is sufficiently fluid and compatible with the other ingredients. Gentle warming may still be required if it is thick or semi-solid.