Ingredient review
Bis-Caprylylaminoethyl Glycine
INCI: Bis-Caprylylaminoethyl Glycine
A mild, effective cleanser that respects your skin barrier and is ideal for sensitive or dry skin.
In plain English
This is a gentle cleansing ingredient made from amino acids (the building blocks of proteins) and fatty acids. Unlike harsh soaps that can strip your skin of its natural oils, it lifts away dirt, oil, and makeup while leaving your skin feeling soft and comfortable. Think of it as a kind, effective cleaner that doesn't overdo it.
Review score
Safety, usefulness, and evidence
Strong fit for many routines
The evidence base is useful, but some claims depend heavily on the formula.
Risk flags are low for most users, though the finished product can still irritate.
- Source
- synthetic
- Evidence
- moderate
- Irritation
- low
- Clogging risk
- low
Quick decision guide
Easy yes for most routines
Bis-Caprylylaminoethyl Glycine is generally a lower-concern ingredient when the full formula suits your skin.
Plain-English read
Treat this as a practical screening step before you compare products that contain this ingredient.
- Step 1Start with the score, then check the irritation and clogging risk before judging Bis-Caprylylaminoethyl Glycine.
- Step 2Use the "Best for" and "Use caution if" sections to match the ingredient to your skin, not just to a marketing claim.
- Step 3If a product stings, breaks you out, or worsens irritation, judge the finished formula and stop using it even if the ingredient scores well.
Score terms in plain English
Irritation risk
lowLess likely to sting, burn, or bother most users, though sensitive skin can still react.
Clogging risk
lowLess likely to feel heavy or contribute to clogged pores for most skin types.
Evidence level
moderateThere is useful support, but formula details and claim strength still matter.
What it is
A synthetic surfactant derived from the amino acid glycine and caprylic acid (a fatty acid found in coconut oil). It belongs to the class of amino-acid-based cleansers known for their mildness.
How it works
It has a dual nature: one part loves water, the other loves oil. This allows it to surround and lift away oily impurities (like sebum and sunscreen) so they can be rinsed away with water. Because it's large and gentle, it doesn't penetrate the skin or disrupt the lipid barrier like smaller, harsher surfactants can.
Pros
Ultra-gentle cleansing
It cleans effectively without disrupting the skin's protective barrier, making it ideal for sensitive or compromised skin.
Non-stripping feel
Unlike many foaming cleansers, it leaves skin feeling soft and hydrated rather than tight and dry.
Cons and cautions
Limited heavy-makeup removal
It may not fully remove long-wear or waterproof makeup, so a separate oil-based cleanser might be needed for double-cleansing.
Higher cost
Products formulated with this ingredient are often pricier than those using conventional sulfates.
Best for
- People with sensitive, dry, or easily irritated skin
- Those looking for a gentle, everyday cleanser that won't strip the skin
Use caution if
- Individuals who prefer a very foamy, squeaky-clean feel (this produces a light, creamy lather)
Usage tips
Safety summary
Bis-caprylylaminoethyl glycine is considered very safe for cosmetic use. It has a low irritation and sensitization potential, and no significant safety concerns have been raised by regulatory bodies or dermatological research.
Research notes
Research on this specific ingredient is limited, but it belongs to the well-studied family of amino-acid surfactants, which are consistently shown to be milder on skin than sulfates or soaps. Its safety and efficacy are supported by its widespread use in gentle cleansers.
Common label clues
- Typical concentration
- 1–10% in rinse-off products
- Regulatory status
- Approved for use in cosmetics globally, including by the EU CosIng database and the US FDA (as part of cosmetic formulations).
- Common uses
- Facial cleansers, Makeup removers, Body washes, Shampoos
- Environmental note
- It is generally considered biodegradable and less harmful to aquatic life compared to some older surfactant classes.
Good to know
- It is often found in 'low pH' cleansers that match the skin's natural acidity (around pH 5.5).
- This ingredient is biodegradable and considered more environmentally friendly than some traditional surfactants.
Common questions
What is Bis-Caprylylaminoethyl Glycine in beauty products?
This is a gentle cleansing ingredient made from amino acids (the building blocks of proteins) and fatty acids. Unlike harsh soaps that can strip your skin of its natural oils, it lifts away dirt, oil, and makeup while leaving your skin feeling soft and comfortable. Think of it as a kind, effective cleaner that doesn't overdo it.
What does Bis-Caprylylaminoethyl Glycine do in a beauty product?
It has a dual nature: one part loves water, the other loves oil. This allows it to surround and lift away oily impurities (like sebum and sunscreen) so they can be rinsed away with water. Because it's large and gentle, it doesn't penetrate the skin or disrupt the lipid barrier like smaller, harsher surfactants can.
Is Bis-Caprylylaminoethyl Glycine safe for most people?
Bis-caprylylaminoethyl glycine is considered very safe for cosmetic use. It has a low irritation and sensitization potential, and no significant safety concerns have been raised by regulatory bodies or dermatological research.
Who should be careful with Bis-Caprylylaminoethyl Glycine?
Individuals who prefer a very foamy, squeaky-clean feel (this produces a light, creamy lather)
Research sources
Ingredient reviews are educational and are not medical advice. Patch test new products and ask a licensed clinician about persistent irritation, allergies, pregnancy-specific questions, or diagnosed skin conditions.