Cleansing Agent

Sodium Lauramido Diacetate

INCI: SODIUM LAURAMIDO DIACETATE

Reviewed by Emma · Last updated 2 Jun 2026

A mild surfactant that cleanses without stripping the skin

Best For Skin Types

All, Sensitive, Combination

Addresses

Dryness, Sensitivity, Barrier repair

Usage Frequency

Daily

What Is Sodium Lauramido Diacetate?

Sodium lauramido diacetate is a synthetic surfactant derived from lauric acid, a fatty acid found naturally in coconut and palm oils. It is chemically engineered to have a gentler profile than traditional sulphate-based cleansing agents, making it a common choice in mild facial and body cleansers.

In skincare formulations, it functions as a cleansing agent that helps to remove oils, dirt, and makeup from the skin's surface. Its structure allows it to reduce the surface tension of water, enabling better incorporation of water-soluble and oil-soluble ingredients within a product.

How It Works

Surfactants like sodium lauramido diacetate have a molecular structure with both water-loving and oil-loving regions. This dual nature allows them to surround dirt, oil, and makeup particles, suspending them so they can be rinsed away with water rather than remaining on the skin.

Because sodium lauramido diacetate is considered a mild surfactant, it performs this function with lower irritation potential than harsher alternatives. This makes it particularly useful in formulations designed for frequent use or sensitive skin types.

Clinical Evidence & References

Limited peer-reviewed research specifically investigates sodium lauramido diacetate in isolation. However, it is widely recognised within cosmetic chemistry as a mild, non-ionic to amphoteric surfactant with a favourable safety and tolerability profile compared to traditional sulphates.

Its use in commercial skincare is well-established, though formal clinical data on efficacy and long-term skin effects remain sparse. The ingredient is generally considered safe for topical use in cosmetic concentrations.

How to Use

This ingredient is typically found in cleansers and is used as part of a twice-daily routine. Apply to damp skin, massage gently, and rinse thoroughly with lukewarm water. Because it is mild, it can be used daily without concern for excessive drying, though individual tolerance varies.

Safety & Precautions

Sodium lauramido diacetate is generally well-tolerated and considered safe for topical use. It is less likely to cause irritation or sensitisation than traditional sulphate surfactants, though rare sensitivity is possible in individuals with surfactant intolerance.

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