Ingredient review
Disodium Sebacoyl Bis-Lauramidolysine
INCI: Disodium Sebacoyl Bis-Lauramidolysine
A gentle, amino-acid based surfactant that cleanses without stripping the skin, making it ideal for sensitive and dry skin types.
In plain English
This ingredient is a mild cleansing agent made from amino acids (the building blocks of proteins) and lauric acid (from coconut oil). It helps remove dirt, oil, and makeup from your skin and hair without causing dryness or irritation, unlike harsher soaps. It's often found in gentle, sulfate-free 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
- synthetic
- Evidence
- moderate
- Irritation
- low
- Clogging risk
- low
Quick decision guide
Easy yes for most routines
Disodium Sebacoyl Bis-Lauramidolysine 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 Sebacoyl Bis-Lauramidolysine.
- 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 lysine (an amino acid) and lauric acid, combined with sebacic acid. It is part of the amino-acid surfactant family, known for their mildness and compatibility with sensitive skin.
How it works
It works by reducing the surface tension of water, allowing it to mix with oils and dirt on the skin. This creates a gentle lather that lifts impurities away without disrupting the skin's natural moisture barrier. Its large molecular structure makes it less penetrating and less irritating than smaller surfactants like sodium lauryl sulfate.
Pros
Extremely gentle
Its large molecular structure means it cleans without penetrating or irritating the skin barrier, making it ideal for sensitive or compromised skin.
Non-stripping
Unlike sulfates, it does not remove too much natural oil, helping maintain skin hydration and comfort after cleansing.
Cons and cautions
Less effective on heavy makeup
It may not fully remove waterproof or long-wear makeup without a double-cleansing step, which can be inconvenient for some users.
Synthetic origin
Although derived from natural building blocks, it is manufactured synthetically, which may not align with a 100% natural product philosophy.
Best for
- People with sensitive or reactive skin
- Those with dry or eczema-prone skin
- Anyone seeking a sulfate-free cleanser
Use caution if
- Individuals looking for a high-foaming, deep-cleansing shampoo for oily hair
- Those who prefer exclusively natural ingredients
Usage tips
Safety summary
Disodium Sebacoyl Bis-Lauramidolysine is considered safe for use in cosmetics. It has low irritation and sensitization potential, and no significant safety concerns have been raised by regulatory bodies or dermatological research.
Research notes
Studies on amino-acid surfactants, including this ingredient, indicate they are milder on skin and less damaging to the skin barrier than traditional anionic surfactants like sodium lauryl sulfate. However, specific clinical data on this exact compound is limited, with safety largely inferred from its chemical class.
Common label clues
- Typical concentration
- 0.5% to 5%
- Regulatory status
- Approved for use in cosmetics globally, including by the US FDA and EU CosIng database, with no known restrictions at typical concentrations.
- Common uses
- Facial cleansers, Body washes, Shampoos, Micellar waters
- Environmental note
- It is biodegradable and has a lower aquatic toxicity compared to many conventional surfactants, making it a more eco-conscious choice.
Good to know
- This ingredient is often used in 'amino acid' cleansers marketed for sensitive skin.
- It is biodegradable and considered environmentally friendlier than some traditional surfactants.
Common questions
What is Disodium Sebacoyl Bis-Lauramidolysine in beauty products?
This ingredient is a mild cleansing agent made from amino acids (the building blocks of proteins) and lauric acid (from coconut oil). It helps remove dirt, oil, and makeup from your skin and hair without causing dryness or irritation, unlike harsher soaps. It's often found in gentle, sulfate-free cleansers.
What does Disodium Sebacoyl Bis-Lauramidolysine do in a beauty product?
It works by reducing the surface tension of water, allowing it to mix with oils and dirt on the skin. This creates a gentle lather that lifts impurities away without disrupting the skin's natural moisture barrier. Its large molecular structure makes it less penetrating and less irritating than smaller surfactants like sodium lauryl sulfate.
Is Disodium Sebacoyl Bis-Lauramidolysine safe for most people?
Disodium Sebacoyl Bis-Lauramidolysine is considered safe for use in cosmetics. 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 Sebacoyl Bis-Lauramidolysine?
Individuals looking for a high-foaming, deep-cleansing shampoo for oily hair Those who prefer exclusively natural ingredients
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.