What Is Sodium Capryloyl Glutamate?
Sodium Capryloyl Glutamate is a plant-derived surfactant made by linking caprylic acid, a fatty acid from coconut or palm oil, with glutamic acid, an amino acid that can be sourced from sugar fermentation. The result is a mild salt known for its skin-friendly cleansing power. It first appeared in Japanese and European personal care labs in the late 1990s when formulators searched for gentle sulfate alternatives. Today manufacturers create it through a straightforward reaction that binds the fatty acid to glutamic acid, then neutralizes the blend with sodium to form a water-soluble powder or liquid concentrate.
Because it is both gentle and effective, Sodium Capryloyl Glutamate shows up in many rinse-off and leave-on products. You will find it in facial cleansers, micellar waters, body washes, shampoos, baby care, foaming masks, lightweight moisturizers and deodorant sprays where a soft cleanse or odor-controlling boost is needed.
Sodium Capryloyl Glutamate’s Cosmetic Benefits/Uses
This ingredient brings a few key jobs to a formula.
- Cleansing: It lifts away dirt, oil and makeup without stripping the skin or hair, so products feel gentle yet still rinse clean
- Deodorant: By reducing the growth of odor-causing bacteria it helps keep skin, especially underarms and feet, smelling fresh for longer periods
Sodium Capryloyl Glutamate is considered suitable for most skin types. Its mild cleansing action works well on normal, dry, oily and combination skin without leaving a tight or stripped feeling. Sensitive skin often tolerates it better than harsher sulfates because it has a close to skin-neutral pH and low irritation profile. There are no known skin types that absolutely should avoid it unless a person has a specific allergy to the ingredient.
The raw materials come from coconut or palm oil and fermented sugar, not from animals, so the ingredient is compatible with vegan and vegetarian lifestyles. Manufacturers commonly state it is cruelty free as no animal testing is required for its basic safety data in many regions.
Current safety assessments have not flagged any risks for women who are pregnant or breastfeeding when the ingredient is used in rinse-off or leave-on cosmetics at typical concentrations. This is not medical advice and anyone who is pregnant or nursing should confirm product choices with a healthcare provider to be on the safe side.
Sodium Capryloyl Glutamate does not make the skin more sensitive to sunlight so it is not classed as a photosensitiser. Regular sun protection is still recommended as part of a daily routine but for general UV safety rather than because of this ingredient.
Potential Side Effects/Adverse Reactions
Side effects from topical use can vary from person to person. The points below list potential reactions yet most users will not experience them when the ingredient is properly formulated and used as directed.
- Mild skin irritation such as redness or itching
- Temporary stinging on very compromised or broken skin
- Allergic contact dermatitis in rare cases of individual sensitivity
- Eye irritation if the product accidentally gets into the eyes
If a negative reaction occurs stop using the product immediately and consult a medical professional if symptoms persist or worsen.
Comedogenic Rating
Rating: 0 / 5 (non-comedogenic)
Sodium Capryloyl Glutamate is a small, water-soluble surfactant that rinses cleanly from skin and hair. It does not leave behind oily residues that can plug pores, and published safety reviews have not linked it to acne formation. Its molecular structure is designed for cleansing rather than coating, which keeps the risk of pore blockage extremely low.
Because of this, the ingredient is generally considered suitable for people who are prone to acne or breakouts.
One extra note: formulas often pair this surfactant with emollients or oils for conditioning benefits. If breakouts occur, the culprit is more likely another component of the product rather than Sodium Capryloyl Glutamate itself.
Summary
Sodium Capryloyl Glutamate is a gentle, plant-derived surfactant that cleanses skin and hair while also helping to curb odor-causing bacteria. It works by surrounding dirt and oil so they can be rinsed away without stripping the skin’s natural barrier, giving products a mild yet effective foam.
The ingredient has carved out a steady fan base in sulfate-free cleansers, baby washes and sensitive skin formulas, though it is still less common than mainstream surfactants like SLS. Brands that focus on gentle or eco-minded formulations use it more frequently year after year.
Safety data shows a very low irritation and allergy profile in both rinse-off and leave-on formats. Nonetheless everyone’s skin is unique, so patch testing a new product that contains Sodium Capryloyl Glutamate is a smart way to confirm personal compatibility.