Laureth-7 Citrate

Laureth-7 Citrate is a mild surfactant derived from lauryl alcohol and citric acid. It belongs to a class of cleansing agents called ethoxylated surfactants, which are gentler than many traditional detergents. In skincare formulations, it works to lift oils, makeup and dirt from the skin's surface, making it a common ingredient in cleansers, micellar waters and makeup removers.The 'laureth' component comes from natural sources, whilst the citrate moiety adds a buffering effect. This combination makes it suitable for formulations where a balanced pH and mild cleansing action are desired.

Laureth-7 Citrate is a surfactant, meaning it has a dual nature: one end is attracted to oil and the other to water. This allows it to encircle oily impurities and suspend them in a cleansing liquid, effectively lifting them away from the skin without requiring vigorous scrubbing.The ethoxylated structure (the 'eth' referring to ethylene oxide chains) makes this surfactant less harsh than older generations of cleansing agents, as it is more readily biodegradable and less likely to disrupt the skin's natural lipid barrier when used as directed.

Laureth-7 Citrate is typically encountered in rinse-off products such as facial cleansers and makeup removers, where you would apply, massage gently, and rinse thoroughly with water. Follow the product instructions for frequency — most cleansers containing this ingredient are suitable for once or twice daily use depending on skin type and personal preference.

Laureth-7 Citrate is generally well-tolerated and considered safe for topical use in cosmetics. It is gentler than many traditional surfactants, though those with severe surfactant sensitivity should patch-test first.