Excipient (pharmacologically inactive substance)

What is it?

Ammonium laureth-5 sulfate (C14H33NO5S), one of several ammonium laureth sulfates. It is an ammonium salt of ethoxylated lauryl sulfate, a surfactant that contains PEG (polyethylene glycol) in its structure. It may be contaminated with potentially toxic manufacturing impurities such as 1,4-dioxane. It functions as a surfactant, cleansing and foaming agent, and is often found in cosmetic products such as shampoos, conditioners, and body washes. Overall hazards with this product are considered low; however contamination concerns do exists, for example, irritation of the skin, eyes, or lungs.