Sodium Lauroyl Glutamate
Reviewed by Kate · Last updated 18 Aug 2026
Mild cleansing agent and surfactant | Imparts softening benefits to skin
Addresses
EWG Safety Score
What Is Sodium Lauroyl Glutamate?
Sodium lauroyl glutamate (SLG) is a mild cleansing agent often used in rinse-off skin care products. SLG’s the salt form of the combination of amino acid glutamic acid and lauric acid, a fatty acid commonly sourced from coconut oil.
As a surfactant, SLG helps cleanse skin, which is why it’s commonly included in face washes and cleansers. Because of the amino and fatty acids present in SLG, it’s often referred to as a great option for sensitive skin. It imparts a smooth and soft feeling after use.
The Cosmetic Ingredient Review Expert Panel reviewed SLG and deemed it safe for use in cosmetics. It can appear in cosmetics and hair care in amounts ranging from 0.003% all the way to 40%. In its raw material state, SLG appears as a white or pale-yellow powder.
Clinical Evidence & References
Published Research
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Tenside Surfactants Detergents, March 2019, pages 126-133 [https://www.degruyterbrill.com/document/doi/10.3139/113.110599/html]
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International Journal of Toxicology, May/June 2017, pages 17S-56S [https://journals.sagepub.com/doi/abs/10.1177/1091581816686048]
How widely it's used
Regulatory information
Standardised cosmetic-ingredient identifiers used by regulators.
Show identifiers
- INCI Name
- SODIUM LAUROYL GLUTAMATE
- EC Number
- 249-958-3 / - / - / -
- Function
- Antistatic, Hair Conditioning, Surfactant
Frequently Asked Questions
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Sodium Lauroamphoacetate
Considered one of the gentlest cleansing agents | Also used to boost foaming properties
Sodium Lauroamphopropionate
A mild surfactant that cleanses and conditions whilst maintaining skin balance
Sodium Lauroyl Aspartate
A mild amino acid-derived cleanser that conditions while it removes oil and dirt
Sodium Lauroyl Glycinate
A gentle amino acid-derived cleanser that removes oil and impurities without stripping the skin
Sodium Lauroyl Hydrolyzed Silk
A conditioning agent derived from silk protein and lauric acid
Sodium Lauroyl Isethionate
A gentle surfactant that cleanses and conditions without excessive stripping
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