Laureth-2 (Liquid | Emulsifiers)

The INCI name is Laureth-2. Its CAS number is 3055-93-4. It is also known as PEG-2 Lauryl Ether, Polyoxyethylene (2) Lauryl Ether, or Ethylene Glycol Monolaurate Ethoxylate. It is produced by reacting lauryl alcohol (C12 fatty alcohol) with 2 moles of ethylene oxide.

Laureth-2 has an HLB value of approximately 6.9 - placing it in the low-HLB, lipophilic range. This means it is better suited for W/O (water-in-oil) emulsification, as a co-emulsifier with high-HLB surfactants, or as a penetration enhancer and solubiliser for oil-soluble actives.

Laureth-2 disrupts the ordered lipid structure of the stratum corneum (the outermost skin layer), temporarily increasing permeability and allowing active ingredients to penetrate more effectively. It is used at 1–5% in serums, hair treatments, and medicated lotions to improve the delivery of vitamins, keratin, silicones, and pharmaceutical actives.

Yes. Laureth-2 is widely used in hair oils, leave-on conditioners, scalp serums, and colour-treatment products. Its low-ethoxylate structure gives it good affinity for the hair shaft lipid bilayer, improving penetration of conditioning agents and protecting colour longevity. It spreads evenly without leaving a greasy residue.

The number indicates the average number of ethylene oxide units. Laureth-2 is most lipophilic (HLB ~6.9), Laureth-4 is intermediate (HLB ~9.7), and Laureth-7 is more hydrophilic (HLB ~12.1). Lower numbers give better penetration enhancement and W/O emulsification; higher numbers give better O/W emulsification and water solubility.

Yes. Laureth-2 is a recognised penetration enhancer for transdermal and topical pharmaceutical formulations. It temporarily and reversibly disrupts skin lipid organisation, increasing the flux of lipophilic and hydrophilic APIs across the stratum corneum. It has been studied in combination with other enhancers (ethanol, oleic acid) for synergistic effects.

Laureth-2 is slightly water soluble/dispersible at room temperature due to its low ethoxylation (2 EO units). It is freely soluble in most organic solvents, oils, and ethanol. For applications requiring water solubility, higher-EO grades (Laureth-7, Laureth-23) should be considered.

Industrial applications include: agrochemical emulsifiable concentrates (as co-emulsifier and solubiliser), metalworking and cutting fluids, wetting agent in coating systems, textile processing (fibre lubricant and wetting aid), and adhesive formulations.

Pharcos L2 (Laureth-2) is a clear to slightly hazy liquid or semi-solid at room temperature (melting point approximately 14–18°C). It is stored at room temperature, away from moisture and direct sunlight. Solidification at lower temperatures does not affect product quality.

Pharcos Speciality provides a Certificate of Analysis (CoA), Safety Data Sheet (SDS/MSDS), non-GMO declaration, BSE/TSE-free certificate, and allergen-free declaration. The product meets INCI naming standards for cosmetic-grade supply. Additional documentation is available on request for regulated markets.