Cleansing Agent

Horse Fatty Acyl Glutamic Acid

INCI: HORSE FATTY ACYL GLUTAMIC ACID

Reviewed by Emma · Last updated 2 Jun 2026

A plant-derived surfactant that cleanses while supporting skin's natural moisture balance

Best For Skin Types

All, Sensitive, Acne-prone, Combination

Addresses

Sensitivity, Acne, Redness

Usage Frequency

Daily

What Is Horse Fatty Acyl Glutamic Acid?

Horse Fatty Acyl Glutamic Acid is a naturally derived surfactant — a cleansing agent created from fatty acids and glutamic acid, an amino acid found in many plants. It works by reducing the surface tension of water, allowing it to lift away oils, dirt and makeup more effectively than water alone.

In skincare formulations, this ingredient typically appears in cleansers and is valued for its mild cleansing action combined with foam-boosting properties, making it particularly useful in face washes and micellar solutions designed to feel gentle yet effective.

How It Works

As an amino acid-derived surfactant, Horse Fatty Acyl Glutamic Acid has a molecular structure with one end that bonds to oils and another that bonds to water. This dual nature allows it to encapsulate sebum and impurities, suspending them so they rinse away cleanly.

Unlike harsh sulphate-based surfactants, this ingredient is designed to perform its cleansing role whilst maintaining a more neutral pH and causing less disruption to the skin's natural protective barrier.

Clinical Evidence & References

Limited peer-reviewed clinical data exists specifically for Horse Fatty Acyl Glutamic Acid as a standalone ingredient. However, amino acid-derived surfactants as a class are well-documented in cosmetic chemistry literature as gentler alternatives to conventional sulphates, with studies suggesting they produce less irritation during repeated use.

Formulators and brand safety assessments generally support its use in cleansing products for sensitive and acne-prone skin. Further independent clinical studies would help establish specific efficacy claims regarding barrier function and irritation thresholds.

How to Use

This ingredient is typically encountered in rinse-off products such as facial cleansers or micellar waters rather than leave-on treatments. Use as directed on your chosen product label, usually once or twice daily. If layering with other actives, apply cleansers first, then follow with treatment products suited to your skin concerns.

Safety & Precautions

Horse Fatty Acyl Glutamic Acid is generally well-tolerated and widely recognised as safe in cosmetics at typical use levels. Patch test if you have known sensitivities to amino acid derivatives or if introducing a new cleanser, as individual tolerance varies.

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