Ingredient review
Disodium Undecylenoyl Glutamate
INCI: Disodium Undecylenoyl Glutamate
A mild, amino-acid-based surfactant that effectively cleanses while respecting the skin barrier.
In plain English
Disodium Undecylenoyl Glutamate is a gentle cleansing ingredient made from castor oil and the amino acid glutamic acid. It works by helping water mix with oil and dirt so they can be rinsed away, but it's much less harsh than traditional soaps or sulfates. This makes it a popular choice for sensitive or dry skin types because it cleans without stripping away the skin's natural moisture barrier.
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 Undecylenoyl 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 Undecylenoyl 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 undecylenic acid (from castor oil) with glutamic acid (an amino acid). It belongs to the family of amino-acid-based cleansers known for their mildness.
How it works
It reduces the surface tension between water and oil, allowing impurities and excess sebum to be emulsified and rinsed away. Its large molecular structure and amino acid base make it less penetrating and less irritating than smaller, harsher surfactants.
Pros
Extremely gentle on skin
Its amino acid structure makes it one of the mildest surfactants available, reducing the risk of irritation and dryness even with frequent use.
Supports skin barrier health
Unlike sulfates that can strip natural oils, this cleanser helps maintain the skin's moisture barrier, leaving it feeling soft and hydrated after washing.
Cons and cautions
Moderate cleansing power
It may not thoroughly remove heavy, long-wear makeup or very oily residues, often requiring a double-cleansing step for full removal.
Higher cost
Products formulated with amino-acid surfactants tend to be more expensive than those using conventional sulfates, which can be a consideration for budget-conscious shoppers.
Best for
- People with sensitive, dry, or eczema-prone skin
- Those looking for a sulfate-free, gentle daily cleanser
Use caution if
- Individuals who prefer a very foamy, high-lather cleanser (this ingredient produces a moderate, creamy lather)
Usage tips
Safety summary
Disodium Undecylenoyl Glutamate is considered very safe for cosmetic use. It has a low irritation and comedogenic risk, and no significant safety concerns have been reported in the scientific literature. It is well-tolerated even by sensitive skin types.
Research notes
Amino-acid-based surfactants like this one have been studied for their mildness and skin compatibility. Research indicates they cause less disruption to the skin barrier and lower irritation compared to traditional anionic surfactants like sodium lauryl sulfate. However, specific studies on Disodium Undecylenoyl Glutamate alone are limited.
Common label clues
- Typical concentration
- 1–10% in rinse-off products
- Regulatory status
- Approved for use in cosmetics globally, including by the U.S. FDA and EU CosIng database, with no known restrictions at typical concentrations.
- Common uses
- Facial cleansers, Body washes, Shampoos, Makeup removers
- Environmental note
- Derived from castor oil (a renewable plant source) and amino acids, and it is readily biodegradable, making it a more sustainable choice compared to petroleum-based surfactants.
Good to know
- This ingredient is often found in 'low pH' cleansers that match the skin's natural acidity (around pH 5.5).
- It is biodegradable and considered more environmentally friendly than many traditional surfactants.
Common questions
What is Disodium Undecylenoyl Glutamate in beauty products?
Disodium Undecylenoyl Glutamate is a gentle cleansing ingredient made from castor oil and the amino acid glutamic acid. It works by helping water mix with oil and dirt so they can be rinsed away, but it's much less harsh than traditional soaps or sulfates. This makes it a popular choice for sensitive or dry skin types because it cleans without stripping away the skin's natural moisture barrier.
What does Disodium Undecylenoyl Glutamate do in a beauty product?
It reduces the surface tension between water and oil, allowing impurities and excess sebum to be emulsified and rinsed away. Its large molecular structure and amino acid base make it less penetrating and less irritating than smaller, harsher surfactants.
Is Disodium Undecylenoyl Glutamate safe for most people?
Disodium Undecylenoyl Glutamate is considered very safe for cosmetic use. It has a low irritation and comedogenic risk, and no significant safety concerns have been reported in the scientific literature. It is well-tolerated even by sensitive skin types.
Who should be careful with Disodium Undecylenoyl Glutamate?
Individuals who prefer a very foamy, high-lather cleanser (this ingredient produces a moderate, creamy lather)
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.