Ingredient review
Sodium Stearyl Dimethyl Glycine
INCI: Sodium Stearyl Dimethyl Glycine
A gentle, amino-acid-based surfactant that cleanses without stripping the skin, making it a great choice for sensitive or dry skin types.
In plain English
Sodium Stearyl Dimethyl Glycine is a mild cleansing ingredient made from a fatty alcohol (stearyl alcohol) and an amino acid (glycine). It helps remove dirt, oil, and makeup while being much gentler than traditional harsh detergents like sodium lauryl sulfate. Because it is derived from natural building blocks, it tends to be less drying and less irritating, which is why you often find it in cleansers labeled 'gentle' or 'for sensitive skin.'
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 Stearyl Dimethyl Glycine 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 Stearyl Dimethyl Glycine.
- 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 stearyl alcohol (a fatty alcohol from plant sources like coconut or palm) with glycine (an amino acid). It belongs to the class of amphoteric surfactants, meaning it can work in both acidic and alkaline pH conditions, and it is known for its mildness and compatibility with skin.
How it works
In a cleanser, this ingredient reduces the surface tension between water and oil, allowing the product to lift away sebum, dirt, and makeup. Its amphoteric nature means it can adjust its charge based on the pH of the formula, which helps it remain gentle and non-stripping. It also produces a stable, creamy foam that feels luxurious on the skin.
Pros
Very gentle on skin
Unlike sodium lauryl sulfate, this surfactant is much less likely to strip the skin's natural moisture barrier, making it ideal for sensitive or dry skin.
Pleasant foam texture
It produces a creamy, stable lather that feels soft and non-drying, enhancing the sensory experience of a cleanser.
Cons and cautions
Less effective on heavy makeup
If you wear long-wear or waterproof makeup, you may need a double-cleansing step or a stronger first cleanser, as this ingredient alone may not remove everything.
Higher cost
Formulations using this ingredient are often pricier than those with conventional sulfates, which could be a consideration for budget-conscious shoppers.
Best for
- People with dry, sensitive, or easily irritated skin who need a gentle daily cleanser
- Anyone looking to reduce the use of harsh sulfates in their routine
Use caution if
- Those who prefer a very high-foam, squeaky-clean feel may find this too mild
Usage tips
Safety summary
Sodium Stearyl Dimethyl Glycine is considered safe for use in rinse-off cosmetics at typical concentrations. It has a low irritation and comedogenic risk, making it suitable for sensitive skin. No significant safety concerns have been raised by regulatory bodies.
Research notes
Research on this specific ingredient is limited, but it belongs to a well-studied class of amphoteric surfactants known for mildness. Studies on similar amino-acid-based surfactants show they are less damaging to the skin barrier than conventional sulfates.
Common label clues
- Typical concentration
- 1–10% of the formula
- Regulatory status
- Approved for use in cosmetics in the EU, US, and many other regions. No specific restrictions beyond general cosmetic safety requirements.
- Common uses
- Facial cleansers, Body washes, Shampoos, Makeup removers
- Environmental note
- Derived from renewable plant sources (stearyl alcohol from coconut or palm oil) and amino acids, it is generally considered more biodegradable than petroleum-based surfactants.
Good to know
- This ingredient is often listed alongside other mild surfactants like cocamidopropyl betaine to create a balanced cleansing system.
- It is considered biodegradable and more environmentally friendly than some traditional surfactants.
Common questions
What is Sodium Stearyl Dimethyl Glycine in beauty products?
Sodium Stearyl Dimethyl Glycine is a mild cleansing ingredient made from a fatty alcohol (stearyl alcohol) and an amino acid (glycine). It helps remove dirt, oil, and makeup while being much gentler than traditional harsh detergents like sodium lauryl sulfate. Because it is derived from natural building blocks, it tends to be less drying and less irritating, which is why you often find it in cleansers labeled 'gentle' or 'for sensitive skin.'
What does Sodium Stearyl Dimethyl Glycine do in a beauty product?
In a cleanser, this ingredient reduces the surface tension between water and oil, allowing the product to lift away sebum, dirt, and makeup. Its amphoteric nature means it can adjust its charge based on the pH of the formula, which helps it remain gentle and non-stripping. It also produces a stable, creamy foam that feels luxurious on the skin.
Is Sodium Stearyl Dimethyl Glycine safe for most people?
Sodium Stearyl Dimethyl Glycine is considered safe for use in rinse-off cosmetics at typical concentrations. It has a low irritation and comedogenic risk, making it suitable for sensitive skin. No significant safety concerns have been raised by regulatory bodies.
Who should be careful with Sodium Stearyl Dimethyl Glycine?
Those who prefer a very high-foam, squeaky-clean feel may find this too mild
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.