Ingredient review
Sodium Undecylenoyl Glutamate
INCI: Sodium Undecylenoyl Glutamate
A gentle, amino-acid-based cleanser that effectively removes dirt and oil without stripping the skin barrier.
In plain English
Sodium undecylenoyl glutamate is a mild cleansing ingredient made from castor oil and an amino acid (glutamate). It helps wash away dirt, oil, and makeup without leaving your skin feeling tight or dry. Unlike harsh soaps, it respects your skin's natural moisture barrier, making it a favorite 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 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 Sodium 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 acyl glutamates, known for their gentle cleansing properties.
How it works
It lowers the surface tension between water and oil, allowing impurities to be rinsed away. Its molecular structure is large and mild, so it cleans without penetrating deeply or disrupting the skin's lipid barrier.
Pros
Extremely gentle on skin
Its large molecular size means it cleans without penetrating or irritating the skin barrier, making it ideal for sensitive or reactive skin.
Maintains moisture balance
Unlike sulfates, it does not strip away natural oils, so your skin feels hydrated and comfortable after cleansing.
Cons and cautions
Moderate lather
It produces a creamy, low-to-moderate foam, which may not satisfy those who prefer a rich, bubbly lather.
Less effective on heavy makeup
For waterproof or long-wear makeup, you may need a double-cleansing step or a stronger surfactant blend.
Best for
- People with dry, sensitive, or eczema-prone skin
- Anyone looking for a sulfate-free, gentle cleanser
Use caution if
- Those who prefer a very foamy, high-lather cleanser (this produces a creamy, moderate lather)
Usage tips
Safety summary
Sodium undecylenoyl glutamate has a strong safety profile with very low irritation and sensitization potential. It is non-comedogenic and well-tolerated even by sensitive skin. No significant safety concerns have been reported in cosmetic use.
Research notes
Acyl glutamates, including sodium undecylenoyl glutamate, have been studied for their mildness and skin compatibility. Research indicates they cause less protein denaturation and barrier disruption than traditional anionic surfactants like sodium lauryl sulfate. However, specific clinical studies on this exact compound are limited.
Common label clues
- Typical concentration
- 1–15% in rinse-off cleansers; lower in leave-on products
- Regulatory status
- Approved for use in cosmetics worldwide, including by the EU CosIng database and the US FDA (as a cosmetic ingredient). No concentration restrictions for rinse-off products.
- Common uses
- Facial cleansers, Body washes, Shampoos, Makeup removers
- Environmental note
- Derived from castor oil (a renewable plant source) and glutamic acid. It is readily biodegradable, reducing aquatic impact compared to some synthetic surfactants.
Good to know
- It is often listed near the top of ingredient lists in sulfate-free cleansers.
- Sodium undecylenoyl glutamate is considered biodegradable and environmentally friendly.
Common questions
What is Sodium Undecylenoyl Glutamate in beauty products?
Sodium undecylenoyl glutamate is a mild cleansing ingredient made from castor oil and an amino acid (glutamate). It helps wash away dirt, oil, and makeup without leaving your skin feeling tight or dry. Unlike harsh soaps, it respects your skin's natural moisture barrier, making it a favorite for sensitive or dry skin types.
What does Sodium Undecylenoyl Glutamate do in a beauty product?
It lowers the surface tension between water and oil, allowing impurities to be rinsed away. Its molecular structure is large and mild, so it cleans without penetrating deeply or disrupting the skin's lipid barrier.
Is Sodium Undecylenoyl Glutamate safe for most people?
Sodium undecylenoyl glutamate has a strong safety profile with very low irritation and sensitization potential. It is non-comedogenic and well-tolerated even by sensitive skin. No significant safety concerns have been reported in cosmetic use.
Who should be careful with Sodium Undecylenoyl Glutamate?
Those who prefer a very foamy, high-lather cleanser (this produces a creamy, moderate 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.