Laureth-16

INCI: LAURETH-16

CAS Number
68439-50-9 (generic C12–14 alcohol ethoxylate)
Function
Nonionic surfactant, emulsifying agent
Safety Rating
GOOD

Regulatory Status

🇪🇺 EU Status permitted
🇺🇸 US Status permitted
US Notes Permitted — CIR reviewed safe as used (2012)

For full compliance data across 55 jurisdictions, use the Substance Compliance tool.

Safety Data

Margin of Safety (MoS)
adequate
Dermal Absorption
negligible
Sensitization
low

Calculate MoS for your specific formulation with the MoS Calculator.

Expert Verdict

Nonionic surfactant with potential 1,4-dioxane and ethylene oxide residuals as processing contaminants.

⚠️
Concern Level: Low

Frequently Asked Questions

Is Laureth-16 safe in cosmetics?

Nonionic surfactant with potential 1,4-dioxane and ethylene oxide residuals as processing contaminants. The EU classifies Laureth-16 as "permitted". Safety rating: GOOD.

Is Laureth-16 allowed in the EU?

Laureth-16 EU regulatory status: permitted. This is based on EU Regulation 1223/2009 and its amendments.

What does Laureth-16 do in cosmetics?

Laureth-16 functions as: Nonionic surfactant, emulsifying agent. It is classified as a cosmetic ingredient in our database. CAS number: 68439-50-9 (generic C12–14 alcohol ethoxylate).

What is the Margin of Safety for Laureth-16?

adequate The Margin of Safety (MoS) is calculated using SCCS methodology. A MoS above 100 is generally considered safe. Use the MoS Calculator tool to calculate MoS for your specific formulation and product category.

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