Ingredient review
Sodium Lauroyl Glycinate
INCI: Sodium Lauroyl Glycinate
A gentle, amino-acid-based cleanser that effectively removes dirt and oil while respecting the skin barrier.
In plain English
Sodium Lauroyl Glycinate is a mild cleansing ingredient made from lauric acid (found in coconut oil) and the amino acid glycine. It creates a soft, creamy lather and cleanses without stripping your skin of its natural moisture. Unlike harsher sulfates, it's less likely to cause dryness or irritation, making it a popular choice for sensitive or dry skin types.
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
Sodium Lauroyl Glycinate 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 Lauroyl Glycinate.
- 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 Lauroyl Glycinate is a surfactant derived from lauric acid (from coconut or palm kernel oil) and glycine, an amino acid naturally present in the body. It belongs to the family of amino-acid-based cleansers, known for their mildness and compatibility with skin.
How it works
In a cleanser, Sodium Lauroyl Glycinate works by reducing the surface tension between water and oil, allowing dirt, excess sebum, and makeup to be rinsed away. Its large molecular structure and gentle charge mean it interacts with the skin's surface without penetrating deeply or disrupting the lipid barrier, resulting in a clean but comfortable feel.
Pros
Skin-friendly cleansing
Its mild, amino-acid structure helps maintain the skin's natural moisture barrier, reducing the risk of tightness or irritation after washing.
Low irritation potential
Clinical and anecdotal evidence points to very low irritation and sensitization rates, making it a safe choice for daily use even on compromised skin.
Cons and cautions
Moderate cleansing power
While effective for daily dirt and light makeup, it may struggle with heavy, waterproof cosmetics, requiring a double-cleansing step.
Higher cost
Amino-acid surfactants are more expensive to produce than sulfates, which can increase the price of finished products.
Best for
- People with dry, sensitive, or reactive skin
- Those looking to switch from sulfate-based cleansers to a gentler option
Use caution if
- Individuals seeking a high-foam, deep-cleansing experience for very oily skin may prefer a stronger surfactant blend
Usage tips
Safety summary
Sodium Lauroyl Glycinate is considered very safe for cosmetic use. It has low acute toxicity, is not a skin sensitizer, and is non-irritating to eyes and skin at typical concentrations. No significant safety concerns have been raised by regulatory or scientific bodies.
Research notes
Amino-acid surfactants like Sodium Lauroyl Glycinate have been studied for their mildness and compatibility with skin. Research indicates they cause less protein denaturation and lipid barrier disruption compared to traditional anionic surfactants such as sodium lauryl sulfate. Human patch tests confirm low irritation potential.
Common label clues
- Typical concentration
- 5–15% in rinse-off cleansers
- Regulatory status
- Approved for use in cosmetics globally, including by the FDA (as part of generally recognized safe ingredients) and under EU CosIng regulations. No known restrictions at typical use levels.
- Common uses
- Facial cleansers, Body washes, Shampoos, Baby care products
- Environmental note
- Derived from renewable plant oils and the amino acid glycine. It is biodegradable and has a lower environmental impact compared to some petroleum-based surfactants.
Good to know
- Sodium Lauroyl Glycinate is often found in 'low pH' cleansers that match the skin's natural acidity (around pH 5.5).
- It is considered biodegradable and is generally derived from plant-based sources, though sourcing can vary.
Common questions
What is Sodium Lauroyl Glycinate in beauty products?
Sodium Lauroyl Glycinate is a mild cleansing ingredient made from lauric acid (found in coconut oil) and the amino acid glycine. It creates a soft, creamy lather and cleanses without stripping your skin of its natural moisture. Unlike harsher sulfates, it's less likely to cause dryness or irritation, making it a popular choice for sensitive or dry skin types.
What does Sodium Lauroyl Glycinate do in a beauty product?
In a cleanser, Sodium Lauroyl Glycinate works by reducing the surface tension between water and oil, allowing dirt, excess sebum, and makeup to be rinsed away. Its large molecular structure and gentle charge mean it interacts with the skin's surface without penetrating deeply or disrupting the lipid barrier, resulting in a clean but comfortable feel.
Is Sodium Lauroyl Glycinate safe for most people?
Sodium Lauroyl Glycinate is considered very safe for cosmetic use. It has low acute toxicity, is not a skin sensitizer, and is non-irritating to eyes and skin at typical concentrations. No significant safety concerns have been raised by regulatory or scientific bodies.
Who should be careful with Sodium Lauroyl Glycinate?
Individuals seeking a high-foam, deep-cleansing experience for very oily skin may prefer a stronger surfactant blend
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.