Common Name(s): Lauryl phosphate,dodecyl phosphate,monolauryl phosphate

CAS Number: 12751-23-4

DESCRIPTION

What It Does: Helps oil and water blend in formulas and gently cleanses skin.

Why It's Used: Used as an anionic phosphate surfactant where mildness and emulsification are both needed; phosphate esters show lower irritation potential than sulfate surfactants.

How It Works: The phosphate head (po4) provides anionic character for cleansing; the c12 lauryl tail provides optimal chain length for foam and cleansing; phosphate esters are milder than sulfates due to different protonation behavior.

Typically Found In: Mild cleansers,emulsion systems,facial washes,lotion formulations

TECHNICAL DETAILS

Primary Category: Functional ingredient – surfactant

Secondary Functions: Emulsifying,cleansing

Application Areas:

Typical Concentration Range: 0.5%–5%

SOURCING & ETHICS

Vegan Status: Yes

Halal Status: Yes

Source Notes: Lauryl alcohol (coconut or synthetic) esterified with phosphoric acid; semi-synthetic.

SKIN COMPATIBILITY

Irritancy Rating: 1/5 – very low

Comedogenicity Rating: 1/5 – low

Sensitivity Concerns: Milder than comparable sulfate surfactants; suitable for sensitive skin.

Safe for Sensitive Skin: Yes

SAFETY & COMPATIBILITY

Safety Profile: Good safety profile. ewg score: 1–2.

Works Well With: Nonionic surfactants,amphoteric surfactants,humectants,fatty alcohols

Avoid Combining With: Strong acids (hydrolysis of phosphate ester)

SCIENTIFIC NOTE

Lauryl phosphate is an anionic phosphate ester surfactant; monoester form provides better emulsification while diester provides better skin feel; typically supplied as mono/diester mixture; cas 12751-23-4.

Last Verified: 2026-03-27

Primary Sources: Cosing database,inci dictionary,chemicalbook 12751-23-4