Ingredient review
Diisotridecyl Lauroyl Glutamate
INCI: DIISOTRIDECYL LAUROYL GLUTAMATE
A mild, amino-acid-derived emulsifier that helps create stable, creamy textures with very low irritation potential.
In plain English
This ingredient is a helper molecule that allows oil and water to mix smoothly in a cream or lotion. It is made from glutamic acid (an amino acid found in your body) and fatty alcohols from plants. Because it is so gentle, it is often used in sensitive-skin formulas and baby products.
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
- semi synthetic
- Evidence
- moderate
- Irritation
- low
- Clogging risk
- low
Quick decision guide
Easy yes for most routines
Diisotridecyl Lauroyl Glutamate 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 Diisotridecyl Lauroyl Glutamate.
- 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
Diisotridecyl Lauroyl Glutamate is a semi-synthetic emulsifier created by combining lauric acid (from coconut or palm oil) with glutamic acid (an amino acid) and branched-chain fatty alcohols. It belongs to the family of amino-acid-based emulsifiers, known for being mild and biodegradable.
How it works
In a cosmetic formula, this molecule has one end that loves water and another that loves oil. When you shake or mix the product, it positions itself at the boundary between oil and water droplets, keeping them from separating. This creates a stable, smooth cream or lotion that feels light and non-greasy on the skin.
Pros
Gentle on skin
Derived from amino acids, this emulsifier has a very low irritation score, making it ideal for sensitive-skin formulas and eye-area products.
Lightweight feel
Unlike some wax-based emulsifiers, it creates creams that absorb quickly without leaving a heavy or greasy residue.
Cons and cautions
Limited pH range
This ingredient works best in formulas with a pH above 4. In very acidic products, its emulsifying power may drop, leading to separation.
Needs support in rich creams
For very high oil content (like thick body butters), it often requires a co-emulsifier to maintain stability.
Best for
- People with sensitive or reactive skin looking for gentle moisturizers
- Anyone who prefers products with mild, amino-acid-based ingredients
Use caution if
- Those with a known allergy to coconut or palm derivatives (rare)
Usage tips
Safety summary
Diisotridecyl Lauroyl Glutamate is considered very safe for cosmetic use. It has low skin irritation and sensitization potential, and no significant toxicity concerns have been reported in standard safety assessments.
Research notes
Amino-acid-based emulsifiers like this one have been studied for their mildness and skin compatibility. While specific studies on this exact molecule are limited, the broader class is well-documented as safe and effective. The Cosmetic Ingredient Review has not identified any safety concerns for similar glutamate-based emulsifiers.
Common label clues
- Typical concentration
- 0.5% to 5%
- Regulatory status
- Approved for use in cosmetics in the EU, US, and most major markets. No concentration restrictions are specified by the Cosmetic Ingredient Review (CIR) panel.
- Common uses
- Moisturizers, Cleansers, Serums, Sunscreens
- Environmental note
- Derived from plant-based fatty acids and amino acids, it is biodegradable and does not accumulate in aquatic environments.
Good to know
- This ingredient is often listed near the middle of an INCI list because it is used at moderate concentrations.
- It is considered biodegradable and is not classified as a microplastic.
Common questions
What is Diisotridecyl Lauroyl Glutamate in beauty products?
This ingredient is a helper molecule that allows oil and water to mix smoothly in a cream or lotion. It is made from glutamic acid (an amino acid found in your body) and fatty alcohols from plants. Because it is so gentle, it is often used in sensitive-skin formulas and baby products.
What does Diisotridecyl Lauroyl Glutamate do in a beauty product?
In a cosmetic formula, this molecule has one end that loves water and another that loves oil. When you shake or mix the product, it positions itself at the boundary between oil and water droplets, keeping them from separating. This creates a stable, smooth cream or lotion that feels light and non-greasy on the skin.
Is Diisotridecyl Lauroyl Glutamate safe for most people?
Diisotridecyl Lauroyl Glutamate is considered very safe for cosmetic use. It has low skin irritation and sensitization potential, and no significant toxicity concerns have been reported in standard safety assessments.
Who should be careful with Diisotridecyl Lauroyl Glutamate?
Those with a known allergy to coconut or palm derivatives (rare)
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.