Ingredient review
Disodium C13-15 Hydroxy Alkanoyl/Isoalkanoyl Glutamate
INCI: DISODIUM C13-15 HYDROXY ALKANOYL/ISOALKANOYL GLUTAMATE
A gentle, amino acid-based surfactant that cleanses without stripping the skin, ideal for sensitive or dry skin types.
In plain English
This ingredient is a mild cleansing agent made from fatty acids and amino acids (the building blocks of proteins). Unlike harsh soaps that can strip your skin's natural oils, it gently lifts dirt and oil while helping maintain the skin's moisture barrier. It's often found in 'gentle' or 'hydrating' cleansers.
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
Disodium C13-15 Hydroxy Alkanoyl/Isoalkanoyl 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 Disodium C13-15 Hydroxy Alkanoyl/Isoalkanoyl 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
A semi-synthetic surfactant created by combining fatty acids (from plant or synthetic sources) with glutamic acid, an amino acid naturally present in skin. The 'disodium' part means it's a salt form, which makes it water-soluble and mild.
How it works
It works by reducing the surface tension between water and oil, allowing dirt and excess sebum to be rinsed away. Its large molecular structure is too big to penetrate deeply into the skin, so it stays on the surface and cleanses without disrupting the lipid barrier.
Pros
Very gentle on skin
Its large molecular size and amino acid base make it much less irritating than sodium lauryl sulfate, reducing the risk of redness and dryness.
Supports barrier health
Unlike harsh detergents, it cleanses without stripping natural oils, helping maintain a healthy moisture barrier for comfortable skin.
Cons and cautions
Less effective on heavy makeup
Because it's so mild, it may not fully remove waterproof mascara or long-wear foundation on its own, often requiring a double-cleanse step.
Higher cost
Amino acid surfactants are more expensive to produce than conventional sulfates, so products containing them tend to be pricier.
Best for
- People with dry, sensitive, or eczema-prone skin
- Those looking for a sulfate-free cleanser
Use caution if
- Individuals who prefer a very foamy, squeaky-clean feel (may find this too gentle)
Usage tips
Safety summary
Disodium C13-15 Hydroxy Alkanoyl/Isoalkanoyl Glutamate is considered safe for use in cosmetics at typical concentrations. It has low irritation and sensitization potential, and no significant safety concerns have been raised by regulatory bodies or dermatological research.
Research notes
Amino acid-based surfactants like this one have been studied for their mildness and compatibility with skin. Research indicates they cause less protein denaturation and lipid barrier disruption compared to traditional anionic surfactants, supporting their use in sensitive skin formulations.
Common label clues
- Typical concentration
- 5–15% in rinse-off cleansers; lower in leave-on products
- Regulatory status
- Approved for use in cosmetics globally, including by the EU CosIng database and the US FDA (as part of generally recognized safe surfactants).
- Common uses
- Facial cleansers, Body washes, Shampoos, Micellar waters
- Environmental note
- Derived from renewable plant sources (fatty acids) and amino acids, and is readily biodegradable, making it a more sustainable choice than some petrochemical surfactants.
Good to know
- This ingredient is often listed near the top of ingredient lists in gentle cleansers, indicating it's a primary surfactant.
- It is biodegradable and considered environmentally friendlier than some petroleum-based surfactants.
Common questions
What is Disodium C13-15 Hydroxy Alkanoyl/Isoalkanoyl Glutamate in beauty products?
This ingredient is a mild cleansing agent made from fatty acids and amino acids (the building blocks of proteins). Unlike harsh soaps that can strip your skin's natural oils, it gently lifts dirt and oil while helping maintain the skin's moisture barrier. It's often found in 'gentle' or 'hydrating' cleansers.
What does Disodium C13-15 Hydroxy Alkanoyl/Isoalkanoyl Glutamate do in a beauty product?
It works by reducing the surface tension between water and oil, allowing dirt and excess sebum to be rinsed away. Its large molecular structure is too big to penetrate deeply into the skin, so it stays on the surface and cleanses without disrupting the lipid barrier.
Is Disodium C13-15 Hydroxy Alkanoyl/Isoalkanoyl Glutamate safe for most people?
Disodium C13-15 Hydroxy Alkanoyl/Isoalkanoyl Glutamate is considered safe for use in cosmetics at typical concentrations. It has low irritation and sensitization potential, and no significant safety concerns have been raised by regulatory bodies or dermatological research.
Who should be careful with Disodium C13-15 Hydroxy Alkanoyl/Isoalkanoyl Glutamate?
Individuals who prefer a very foamy, squeaky-clean feel (may find this too gentle)
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.