Ingredient review
Sodium Hydrogenated Tallowoyl Glutamate
INCI: SODIUM HYDROGENATED TALLOWOYL GLUTAMATE
A mild, amino-acid-based surfactant that cleans effectively without stripping the skin's natural moisture barrier.
In plain English
This ingredient is a gentle cleanser made by combining fatty acids from animal fats (tallow) with an amino acid called glutamic acid. It works like a soap but is much kinder to your skin because it has a pH close to your skin's natural level. It helps remove dirt, oil, and makeup without leaving your face feeling tight or dry.
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
Sodium Hydrogenated Tallowoyl 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 Sodium Hydrogenated Tallowoyl 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
Sodium Hydrogenated Tallowoyl Glutamate is a surfactant, meaning it helps water mix with oil and dirt so they can be rinsed away. It is created by reacting hydrogenated tallow (a processed animal fat) with glutamic acid, an amino acid naturally found in skin. The result is a white powder or paste used in cleansers.
How it works
In a cosmetic product, this ingredient reduces the surface tension of water, allowing it to penetrate oils and lift away impurities. Unlike traditional soaps that can be harsh, it forms a mild, creamy lather and rinses cleanly. Its molecular structure is similar to the skin's own lipids, which helps it clean without disrupting the skin barrier.
Pros
Very gentle on skin
Its amino-acid base makes it much milder than traditional soaps, reducing the risk of irritation and dryness.
Maintains skin barrier
It cleans without stripping natural oils, helping keep your skin's protective barrier intact.
Cons and cautions
Animal-derived source
Made from hydrogenated tallow (beef fat), so it is not suitable for vegans or those avoiding animal products.
Sourcing concerns
The environmental and ethical impact of tallow sourcing can vary, and it may not align with cruelty-free or sustainable preferences.
Best for
- People with dry or sensitive skin
- Those who prefer mild, non-stripping cleansers
- Anyone looking for a gentle daily face wash
Use caution if
- Strict vegans or vegetarians
- Those who avoid animal-derived ingredients
Usage tips
Safety summary
Sodium Hydrogenated Tallowoyl Glutamate is considered safe for use in cosmetics at typical concentrations. It has low irritation and comedogenic potential, making it suitable for most skin types. The main concern is its animal origin, which may not suit all ethical preferences.
Research notes
Amino-acid-based surfactants like this one are well-studied and known for their mildness and skin compatibility. Research indicates they cause less barrier disruption than traditional sulfates. However, specific studies on this exact compound are limited, with most evidence coming from related glutamates.
Common label clues
- Typical concentration
- 1% to 10% in rinse-off products
- Regulatory status
- Approved for use in cosmetics worldwide, including by the U.S. FDA and EU CosIng database, with no known restrictions at typical concentrations.
- Common uses
- Facial cleansers, Body washes, Shampoos, Bar soaps
- Environmental note
- Tallow is a byproduct of the meat industry, so its use can reduce waste. However, its sustainability depends on farming practices and animal welfare standards.
Good to know
- This ingredient is often found in 'amino acid' cleansers marketed for sensitive skin.
- It is biodegradable and generally considered safe for aquatic life at typical use levels.
Common questions
What is Sodium Hydrogenated Tallowoyl Glutamate in beauty products?
This ingredient is a gentle cleanser made by combining fatty acids from animal fats (tallow) with an amino acid called glutamic acid. It works like a soap but is much kinder to your skin because it has a pH close to your skin's natural level. It helps remove dirt, oil, and makeup without leaving your face feeling tight or dry.
What does Sodium Hydrogenated Tallowoyl Glutamate do in a beauty product?
In a cosmetic product, this ingredient reduces the surface tension of water, allowing it to penetrate oils and lift away impurities. Unlike traditional soaps that can be harsh, it forms a mild, creamy lather and rinses cleanly. Its molecular structure is similar to the skin's own lipids, which helps it clean without disrupting the skin barrier.
Is Sodium Hydrogenated Tallowoyl Glutamate safe for most people?
Sodium Hydrogenated Tallowoyl Glutamate is considered safe for use in cosmetics at typical concentrations. It has low irritation and comedogenic potential, making it suitable for most skin types. The main concern is its animal origin, which may not suit all ethical preferences.
Who should be careful with Sodium Hydrogenated Tallowoyl Glutamate?
Strict vegans or vegetarians Those who avoid animal-derived 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.