Laureth 23
CIR Expert Panel concluded Laureth-4 and Laureth-23 are safe in cosmetics, reaffirmed in 2003. As an ethoxylated ingredient, residual 1,4-dioxane (a possible human carcinogen) may be present and must be controlled by manufacturers.
What it is
Polyethylene glycol (23) lauryl ether — a nonionic surfactant; lauryl alcohol ethoxylated with ~23 ethylene oxide units.
Cosmetic surfactant/emulsifier; not used in food.
Why it's flagged
- potential 1,4-dioxane impurity
What regulators actually say
"1,4-dioxane forms as a byproduct during the manufacturing process of certain cosmetic ingredients, including those identifiable by 'PEG,' 'Polyethylene,' 'Polyethylene glycol,' or '-eth-.'"
"The CIR Expert Panel concluded that Laureth-4 and Laureth-23 were safe for use in cosmetics and personal care products."
Regulatory status
United States — FDA
Cosmetic ingredient; FDA monitors 1,4-dioxane levels
European Union — EFSA
Cosmetic ingredient; SCCS guidance on 1,4-dioxane
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