Ingredient review
Disodium Lauroyl Glutamate
INCI: DISODIUM LAUROYL GLUTAMATE
A mild, effective cleanser that respects the skin barrier and is well-tolerated by sensitive skin.
In plain English
Disodium Lauroyl Glutamate is a gentle cleansing ingredient made from coconut oil and the amino acid glutamic acid. It helps remove dirt, oil, and makeup without stripping your skin of its natural moisture, making it a popular choice for people with dry or sensitive skin.
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 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 Disodium 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
A semi-synthetic surfactant derived from lauric acid (from coconut or palm oil) and L-glutamic acid (an amino acid). It belongs to the family of acyl glutamates, known for their mildness and biodegradability.
How it works
It works by reducing the surface tension between water and oil, allowing impurities to be lifted away and rinsed off. Unlike harsher sulfates, it has a larger molecular structure that is less likely to penetrate and irritate the skin barrier.
Pros
Extremely gentle on skin
Its large molecular structure means it cleans without penetrating or disrupting the skin barrier, reducing the risk of irritation and dryness.
Environmentally friendly
Disodium Lauroyl Glutamate is biodegradable and often derived from renewable plant sources, making it a more sustainable choice compared to some petrochemical surfactants.
Cons and cautions
Potential for slight drying
In high concentrations or in formulations without enough moisturizing ingredients, it can still leave very dry skin feeling tight.
Sustainability of sourcing
The lauric acid is often sourced from palm oil, which can be associated with deforestation unless certified sustainable.
Best for
- People with sensitive, dry, or eczema-prone skin
- Anyone looking for a sulfate-free cleanser
Use caution if
- Those with a known allergy to coconut-derived ingredients (rare)
Usage tips
Safety summary
Disodium Lauroyl Glutamate has a strong safety profile with very low irritation and sensitization potential. It is widely used in products for sensitive skin and is considered safe for all skin types at typical concentrations.
Research notes
Amino-acid-based surfactants like disodium lauroyl glutamate have been shown in studies to be significantly milder than traditional sulfates, with less impact on skin barrier function and lower irritation scores in patch tests.
Common label clues
- Typical concentration
- 1–15% in rinse-off products
- Regulatory status
- Approved for use in cosmetics in the EU, US, and most other regions. No known restrictions at typical concentrations.
- Common uses
- Facial cleansers, Body washes, Shampoos, Makeup removers
- Environmental note
- Biodegradable and generally considered eco-friendly, though the sustainability of the palm oil source can vary. Look for RSPO-certified palm derivatives when possible.
Good to know
- It is often used alongside other mild surfactants to boost foam and improve the sensory feel of a cleanser.
- Disodium Lauroyl Glutamate is considered safe for use in rinse-off products by major regulatory bodies.
Common questions
What is Disodium Lauroyl Glutamate in beauty products?
Disodium Lauroyl Glutamate is a gentle cleansing ingredient made from coconut oil and the amino acid glutamic acid. It helps remove dirt, oil, and makeup without stripping your skin of its natural moisture, making it a popular choice for people with dry or sensitive skin.
What does Disodium Lauroyl Glutamate do in a beauty product?
It works by reducing the surface tension between water and oil, allowing impurities to be lifted away and rinsed off. Unlike harsher sulfates, it has a larger molecular structure that is less likely to penetrate and irritate the skin barrier.
Is Disodium Lauroyl Glutamate safe for most people?
Disodium Lauroyl Glutamate has a strong safety profile with very low irritation and sensitization potential. It is widely used in products for sensitive skin and is considered safe for all skin types at typical concentrations.
Who should be careful with Disodium Lauroyl Glutamate?
Those with a known allergy to coconut-derived ingredients (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.