Laureth-23 is a high HLB emulsifier used in oil-in-water emulsions. Laureth-23 finds use in cosmetic and pharmaceutical products as a surfactant, emulsifier and solubilizer.  It is particularly useful in some formulations in light of its chemical inertness to hydrolytic decomposition. 

Laureth-23 is a nonionic surfactant prepared from lauryl alcohol and 23 moles of ethylene oxide. Laureth-23 contains an average of 23 repeating ethylene oxide units.  Small amounts of 1,4-dioxane, a by-product of ethoxylation, may be found in Laureth-23. The potential presence of this material is well known and can be controlled through purification steps to remove it. 

Laureth-23 is a non-ionic surfactant, emulsifier, and solubilizer that is used in a variety of cosmetic products, including: 

• Bath products 

• Cleansing products 

• Sunscreen products 

• Eye, facial, and hair care products 

Laureth-23 is a polyethylene glycol ether of lauryl alcohol. It is a white, waxy solid at 25° C.