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
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
Frequently Asked Questions
From the Clinic
Not sure what your skin actually needs?
Two minutes, a few questions, and we’ll point you at what matters — no guesswork.
Take the skin quizRelated Ingredients
Sodium Hydrogenated Cocoyl Methyl Isethionate
A coconut-derived cleanser that removes oil and dirt whilst supporting stable foam
Sodium Hydrolyzed Potato Starch Dodecenylsuccinate
A modified starch that stabilises foam and helps cleansers work effectively
Sodium Isethionate
Used as a surfactant | Becomes a detergent when it contacts oleic acid
Sodium Laureth-13 Carboxylate
An ingredient used primarily as a detergent cleansing agent.
Sodium Lauroampho Pg-Acetate Phosphate
A mild surfactant that cleanses and conditions whilst supporting stable foam formation
Sodium Lauroamphoacetate
Considered one of the gentlest cleansing agents | Also used to boost foaming properties
Learn More About Skincare Ingredients
Explore our comprehensive ingredient glossary to understand what's in your products.
Browse All IngredientsShop Our Products
Find professional skincare solutions at Skintique.