Laneth-5 is a lanolin alcohol ethoxylate with five moles of ethylene oxide. It is a nonionic surface active agent containing a unique combination of branched-chain alcohols and mixed sterols, the most important of which is cholesterol. Due to the presence of these natural skin-moisturizing lipids, it exhibits considerable emollience. It is a waxy, soft solid with a characteristic odor and pH range of 4.5-6.0.
Laneth-5 is a highly effective and versatile emulsifier with an HLB value of 7.3. Because it is less ethoxylated than other lanolin alcohol ethoxylates, Laneth-5 is more lipophilic and can function as an emollient and superfatting agent and a secondary water-in-oil emulsifier. It offers a broad range of functionality, lending its use in various applications.
With its lower HLB, Laneth-5 has a more hydrophobic nature. It can emulsify most oils and is an excellent co-emulsifier for water-in-oil systems. This is particularly so when used with ethoxylated oleyl alcohols, such as Oleth-3.
Laneth-5 is a superior bromo dye solvent for lipsticks and is miscible with most lipstick ingredients. Its 2-3% use in lipsticks can increase the stick's breaking strength without adversely affecting its hardness or spreading properties. In shampoos and conditioners, it acts as a superfatting agent. In mascara formulas, it acts as a co-emulsifier and emollient.
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