Ingredient review
Disteareth-2 Lauroyl Glutamate
INCI: DISTEARETH-2 LAUROYL GLUTAMATE
A mild, amino-acid-based surfactant that cleanses without stripping the skin's natural moisture barrier.
In plain English
Disteareth-2 Lauroyl Glutamate is a gentle cleansing ingredient made by combining fatty alcohols with glutamic acid (an amino acid). It helps remove dirt and oil from skin and hair without causing dryness or irritation, making it a popular choice for sensitive skin formulas.
Review score
Safety, usefulness, and evidence
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
Quick decision guide
Useful, but context matters
Disteareth-2 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 Disteareth-2 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 created by reacting lauric acid (from coconut or palm oil) with glutamic acid and ethoxylated stearyl alcohol. It belongs to the family of amino-acid-based cleansers, which are known for being milder than traditional sulfates.
How it works
It works by reducing the surface tension between water and oil, allowing impurities to be lifted away and rinsed off. Because it has a larger molecular structure than harsher surfactants, it doesn't penetrate the skin's outer layer as deeply, which helps preserve natural oils and maintain the skin's moisture barrier.
Pros
Extremely mild
Causes minimal irritation, making it ideal for daily use on sensitive or reactive skin.
Moisture-friendly
Does not strip the skin's natural oils, helping to keep the skin barrier intact and hydrated.
Cons and cautions
Lower foam
Produces less lather than sulfates, which some users may perceive as less effective cleansing.
Cost
Typically more expensive than traditional surfactants, which can raise the price of finished products.
Best for
- People with dry or sensitive skin
- Those looking for a sulfate-free cleanser
Use caution if
- Individuals with known allergies to coconut-derived ingredients (rare)
Usage tips
Safety summary
Considered safe for use in cosmetics at typical concentrations. Low irritation and sensitization potential. No known carcinogenic or reproductive toxicity concerns based on available data.
Research notes
Amino-acid-based surfactants like this one have been studied for their mildness and skin compatibility. They are widely accepted in dermatology as alternatives to harsher cleansers, though specific long-term studies on this exact compound are limited.
Common label clues
- Typical concentration
- 1–10% in rinse-off products
- Regulatory status
- Approved for use in cosmetics in the EU, US, and most major markets. No specific restrictions beyond general cosmetic safety requirements.
- Common uses
- Cleansers, Shampoos, Body washes, Facial washes
- Environmental note
- Derived from renewable plant sources (coconut/palm oil and glutamic acid). Biodegradability is generally good, but sourcing of palm oil should be certified sustainable.
Good to know
- Often listed near the middle of an ingredient list in cleansers.
- Can be combined with betaines or glucosides for a richer lather.
Common questions
What is Disteareth-2 Lauroyl Glutamate in beauty products?
Disteareth-2 Lauroyl Glutamate is a gentle cleansing ingredient made by combining fatty alcohols with glutamic acid (an amino acid). It helps remove dirt and oil from skin and hair without causing dryness or irritation, making it a popular choice for sensitive skin formulas.
What does Disteareth-2 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. Because it has a larger molecular structure than harsher surfactants, it doesn't penetrate the skin's outer layer as deeply, which helps preserve natural oils and maintain the skin's moisture barrier.
Is Disteareth-2 Lauroyl Glutamate safe for most people?
Considered safe for use in cosmetics at typical concentrations. Low irritation and sensitization potential. No known carcinogenic or reproductive toxicity concerns based on available data.
Who should be careful with Disteareth-2 Lauroyl Glutamate?
Individuals with known allergies 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.