Ingredient review

Disodium Undecylenamido PEG-2 Sulfosuccinate

INCI: DISODIUM UNDECYLENAMIDO PEG-2 SULFOSUCCINATE

A gentle, sulfate-free surfactant that effectively cleanses while being kind to sensitive and dry skin types.

beautyskincarecleanser

In plain English

This ingredient is a mild soap-like molecule that helps water mix with oil and dirt so they can be rinsed away. It is made from castor oil and is designed to be less harsh than traditional sulfates, making it a popular choice for gentle cleansers and baby products. It creates a soft foam without stripping your skin's natural moisture barrier.

Review score

Safety, usefulness, and evidence

4.0Good

4.0/ 5

Potentially useful with some tradeoffs

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

How reviews are scored

Quick decision guide

Useful, but context matters

Disodium Undecylenamido PEG-2 Sulfosuccinate 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 Undecylenamido PEG-2 Sulfosuccinate.
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

low

Less likely to sting, burn, or bother most users, though sensitive skin can still react.

Clogging risk

low

Less likely to feel heavy or contribute to clogged pores for most skin types.

Evidence level

moderate

There is useful support, but formula details and claim strength still matter.

What it is

Disodium Undecylenamido PEG-2 Sulfosuccinate is a semi-synthetic surfactant, meaning it is a cleansing agent created by modifying natural castor oil with synthetic chemistry. It belongs to the sulfosuccinate family, known for their mildness and ability to produce a creamy lather.

How it works

In a cleanser, this molecule has a water-loving head and an oil-loving tail. When you wash your face, the tails grab onto sebum, makeup, and dirt, while the heads stay in the water. Rinsing then lifts away the trapped impurities, leaving skin clean without over-drying.

Pros

Very gentle on skin

Unlike sodium lauryl sulfate, this surfactant has a low irritation potential, making it ideal for daily use on sensitive or compromised skin.

Sulfate-free cleansing

It provides effective foam and cleansing without the harshness associated with sulfates, helping maintain the skin's natural moisture barrier.

Cons and cautions

Less effective on heavy makeup

Because it is so mild, it may struggle to fully remove long-wearing or waterproof makeup, often requiring a double-cleansing step.

Semi-synthetic origin

While derived from natural castor oil, it undergoes chemical processing, which may not appeal to those seeking 100% natural ingredients.

Best for

People with dry or sensitive skin
Those seeking a sulfate-free cleanser
Parents looking for gentle baby washes

Use caution if

Individuals with known allergy to castor oil derivatives
Those who prefer completely natural, non-synthetic ingredients

Usage tips

Use as part of a double-cleansing routine if you wear heavy makeup or sunscreen.

Pair with a moisturizer after cleansing to lock in hydration.

Avoid using on broken or irritated skin without consulting a dermatologist.

Safety summary

Disodium Undecylenamido PEG-2 Sulfosuccinate is considered safe for use in cosmetics at typical concentrations. It has low skin irritation and sensitization potential, though as with any ingredient, patch testing is recommended for those with very reactive skin.

Research notes

Sulfosuccinate surfactants are well-documented in cosmetic science as mild alternatives to sulfates. Studies and safety reviews by the Cosmetic Ingredient Review (CIR) panel support their safety in rinse-off products. However, specific long-term human studies on this exact compound are limited.

Common label clues

Typical concentration: 1% to 10% in rinse-off products
Regulatory status: Approved for use in cosmetics in the US, EU, and other major markets. Generally recognized as safe when used as directed.
Common uses: Facial cleansers, Body washes, Shampoos, Baby care products
Environmental note: This surfactant is biodegradable and has a lower aquatic toxicity profile compared to many conventional sulfates, making it a more eco-friendly choice.

Good to know

Often found in 'gentle' or 'sensitive skin' labeled cleansers.
Biodegradable and considered more environmentally friendly than some traditional surfactants.

Common questions

What is Disodium Undecylenamido PEG-2 Sulfosuccinate in beauty products?

What does Disodium Undecylenamido PEG-2 Sulfosuccinate do in a beauty product?

Is Disodium Undecylenamido PEG-2 Sulfosuccinate safe for most people?

Who should be careful with Disodium Undecylenamido PEG-2 Sulfosuccinate?

Individuals with known allergy to castor oil derivatives Those who prefer completely natural, non-synthetic ingredients

Research sources

Cosmetic Ingredient Review (CIR) - Safety Assessment of SulfosuccinatesOpen PubChem - Disodium Undecylenamido PEG-2 SulfosuccinateOpen EWG Skin Deep - Disodium Undecylenamido PEG-2 SulfosuccinateOpen

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.