Ingredient review
Sodium/TEA-Undecylenoyl Collagen Amino Acids
INCI: SODIUM/TEA-UNDECYLENOYL COLLAGEN AMINO ACIDS
A mild, amino-acid-based surfactant that cleanses without stripping the skin, making it ideal for sensitive or dry skin types.
In plain English
This ingredient is a gentle cleanser made by attaching a fatty acid (from castor oil) to collagen amino acids. It helps remove dirt and oil without stripping your skin's natural moisture barrier, leaving skin feeling soft rather than 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/TEA-Undecylenoyl Collagen Amino Acids 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/TEA-Undecylenoyl Collagen Amino Acids.
- 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 undecylenic acid (derived from castor oil) with collagen amino acids. It is part of the family of acyl amino acid surfactants, known for their mildness and skin compatibility.
How it works
It works by reducing the surface tension between water and oil, allowing impurities to be rinsed away. Because it is based on amino acids, it has a pH close to that of healthy skin (around 5.5) and does not disrupt the skin's acid mantle. It also leaves a light conditioning film on the skin, reducing post-wash dryness.
Pros
Very gentle on skin
Unlike harsh sulfates, this surfactant cleanses without stripping natural oils, making it ideal for daily use on sensitive or dry skin.
pH-friendly
It works well at a skin-compatible pH (around 5.5), helping to preserve the acid barrier that protects against irritation and dehydration.
Cons and cautions
Lower foam volume
It produces a creamy, low foam rather than big bubbles, which some users may find less satisfying or less effective for removing heavy makeup.
Higher cost
Amino-acid surfactants are more expensive to produce, so products containing them often cost more than conventional cleansers.
Best for
- People with dry or sensitive skin
- Those looking for a sulfate-free cleanser
- Anyone wanting a gentle daily face wash
Use caution if
- Individuals with known allergies to castor oil derivatives (rare)
- Those seeking a high-foaming, deep-cleansing experience
Usage tips
Safety summary
Considered safe for use in cosmetics at typical concentrations. It is non-irritating and non-sensitizing for most people, with a low risk of causing breakouts or allergic reactions.
Research notes
Amino-acid surfactants like this one are well-studied for mildness and skin compatibility. While specific studies on this exact compound are limited, the broader class is supported by dermatological research showing reduced irritation compared to traditional surfactants.
Common label clues
- Typical concentration
- 0.5% to 5% in rinse-off products; lower in leave-on formulas
- Regulatory status
- Approved for use in cosmetics in the EU, US, and other major markets. No specific restrictions beyond general cosmetic safety requirements.
- Common uses
- Facial cleansers, Body washes, Shampoos, Leave-on serums
- Environmental note
- Derived partly from castor oil (a renewable plant source) and collagen amino acids (often from animal by-products). Biodegradability is expected to be good, but specific data is limited.
Good to know
- This ingredient is often listed near the middle or end of an ingredient list because it is used at low concentrations.
- It is compatible with other mild surfactants and is often blended to adjust foam and cleansing power.
Common questions
What is Sodium/TEA-Undecylenoyl Collagen Amino Acids in beauty products?
This ingredient is a gentle cleanser made by attaching a fatty acid (from castor oil) to collagen amino acids. It helps remove dirt and oil without stripping your skin's natural moisture barrier, leaving skin feeling soft rather than tight or dry.
What does Sodium/TEA-Undecylenoyl Collagen Amino Acids do in a beauty product?
It works by reducing the surface tension between water and oil, allowing impurities to be rinsed away. Because it is based on amino acids, it has a pH close to that of healthy skin (around 5.5) and does not disrupt the skin's acid mantle. It also leaves a light conditioning film on the skin, reducing post-wash dryness.
Is Sodium/TEA-Undecylenoyl Collagen Amino Acids safe for most people?
Considered safe for use in cosmetics at typical concentrations. It is non-irritating and non-sensitizing for most people, with a low risk of causing breakouts or allergic reactions.
Who should be careful with Sodium/TEA-Undecylenoyl Collagen Amino Acids?
Individuals with known allergies to castor oil derivatives (rare) Those seeking a high-foaming, deep-cleansing experience
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.