Laureth-7 Citrate is a chemical compound, an ester of citric acid and laureth-7, which is an ethoxylated fatty alcohol. It is used in cosmetic products as an emulsifier and surfactant, enabling the mixing of ingredients that typically do not combine, such as oils and water. Due to its foaming and cleansing properties, Laureth-7 Citrate is commonly found in cleansers, shampoos, and personal care products. It is valued for its ability to create a light, creamy foam and for its gentle conditioning effect on the skin and hair.
Chemical Composition and Structure
Laureth-7 Citrate is an ester derived from the combination of laureth-7 and citric acid. Laureth-7 is an ethoxylated long-chain fatty alcohol, which provides foaming and cleansing properties, while citric acid acts as a pH regulator and conditioning agent. The combination of these two components gives Laureth-7 Citrate good surface tension-reducing capabilities, improving the dispersion of ingredients in formulations.
Physical Properties
Laureth-7 Citrate typically appears as a clear or slightly yellow liquid. It is water-soluble and produces a stable, creamy foam when used in cleansers. This ingredient is known to be gentle on the skin, making it suitable for daily use in products such as shampoos, body washes, and facial cleansers.
Chemical Industrial Synthesis Process
The production of Laureth-7 Citrate, a non-ionic surfactant derived from the ethoxylation of lauryl alcohol and subsequent esterification with citric acid, follows a specific chemical process. This ingredient is valued in cosmetic products for its emollient properties and as a solubilizing agent. Here is a detailed overview of the process.
- Ethoxylation. Lauryl alcohol, primarily derived from coconut or palm oil, undergoes ethoxylation, a process in which the alcohol reacts with ethylene oxide to produce lauryl alcohol ethoxylates, in this case, Laureth-7.
- Esterification. The obtained Laureth-7 is then esterified with citric acid, a naturally occurring tricarboxylic organic acid found in many fruits. This reaction forms Laureth-7 Citrate, adding ester functional groups that enhance the solubility and surfactant properties of the product.
- Purification. After esterification, the product may contain impurities or by-products of the reaction that need to be removed. Purification can be carried out using techniques such as vacuum distillation or filtration to obtain a pure final product.
- Quality Control. The purified Laureth-7 Citrate undergoes quality control checks to ensure it meets the required technical specifications, including verifying the chemical composition, purity, and surfactant properties. These tests can include high-performance liquid chromatography (HPLC), spectroscopy, and physicochemical analyses.
Form and Color. Typically appears as a clear or slightly opalescent liquid.
What it is for and where
This ingredient is commonly used in cosmetics as an emulsifier, surfactant, and chelating agent. It has the ability to help blend water and oil-based ingredients, stabilize emulsions, and improve the compatibility of a product's components. Additionally, it can also act as a chelating agent, helping to stabilize the formula and enhance its efficacy.
Cosmetics - INCI Functions
Surfactant - Cleansing agent. Cosmetic products used to cleanse the skin utilise the surface-active action that produces a lowering of the surface tension of the stratum corneum, facilitating the removal of dirt and impurities.
Cleansing agent. Ingredient that cleanses skin without exploiting the surface-active properties that produce a lowering of the surface tension of the stratum corneum.
CAS 161756-30-5
Commercial Applications
Cosmetic Industry. Laureth-7 Citrate is used as a surfactant and emulsifying agent in various cosmetic products, including skin cleansers, shampoos, and bath foams.
Cleansing and Foaming Properties. Offers gentle cleansing properties and the ability to form foam, making it suitable for products intended for sensitive skin.
Skin Care. Employed in skin care formulations for its ability to reduce surface tension, facilitating the removal of dirt and sebum without irritating the skin.
Fragrance Solubilizer. Also used to solubilize fragrances in cosmetic products, improving the distribution of scent in the final product.
Safety
Generally considered safe for use in cosmetic products, but checking for any allergic reactions is always recommended, especially for individuals with sensitive skin.
