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Trilaureth-4 Phosphate

What Trilaureth-4 Phosphate is & what it does

Trilaureth-4 Phosphate is a phosphate ester surfactant made from lauryl alcohol that has been ethoxylated and reacted with phosphoric acid. In skincare and sunscreen formulas it functions chiefly as an emulsifier and surfactant, helping oil and water phases blend into a stable, uniform product. A notable feature is its mild, non-ionic-leaning cleansing and dispersing behavior, which suits it to lightweight lotions and emulsions.

What does Trilaureth-4 Phosphate do in skincare?

Trilaureth-4 Phosphate is a phosphate ester surfactant used in skincare and sunscreen as an emulsifier and dispersing agent. It helps oil and water blend into a stable, uniform formula. It is often chosen for lightweight lotions and emulsions where a smooth, even texture is desired.

Is Trilaureth-4 Phosphate natural or synthetic?

Trilaureth-4 Phosphate is a synthetic ingredient, produced by ethoxylating lauryl alcohol and reacting it with a phosphate group. While its fatty alcohol starting material can come from plant oils, the finished emulsifier is chemically processed. It is therefore considered a synthetic, nature-derived material.

Is Trilaureth-4 Phosphate safe?

Trilaureth-4 Phosphate is used in cosmetics as an emulsifier and is generally regarded as well tolerated at the levels found in formulas. Like other surfactants it is used in small amounts and balanced within the overall product. People with very sensitive skin can patch test if they are concerned.

Sunscreens with Trilaureth-4 Phosphate

We rate 43 sunscreens that contain it, showing the top 10 by overall score:

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