What Is Sodium Hydrogenated Tallowoyl Glutamate?
Sodium Hydrogenated Tallowoyl Glutamate is a mild surfactant created by reacting glutamic acid, an amino acid, with hydrogenated tallow fatty acids and then neutralizing the mixture with sodium. The result is a sodium salt that behaves like a soap but feels far gentler on skin. Because the fatty acids come from tallow, the material is traditionally sourced from animal fat, although some brands now look for plant based or synthetic alternatives to meet vegan preferences.
The ingredient arose in the mid-20th century when formulators searched for gentler cleansing agents to replace harsher soaps. Combining amino acids with fatty acids proved to deliver a balanced cleanser that removed dirt while helping skin hold onto moisture. Manufacturers obtain tallow, hydrogenate it to stabilize the fatty chains, couple it with glutamic acid to form an amide and finally add sodium hydroxide to create the salt. The finished powder or granule is then blended into water based formulations.
You will most often find Sodium Hydrogenated Tallowoyl Glutamate in face cleansers, body washes, shampoo bars, syndet bars, micellar waters and baby care cleansers where a soft creamy foam and low irritation profile are important.
Sodium Hydrogenated Tallowoyl Glutamate’s Cosmetic Benefits/Uses
This ingredient serves one key purpose in cosmetics
Cleansing: It lowers the surface tension of water so oils, makeup and daily grime lift away with ease. Compared with traditional soap it forms a denser lather that rinses clean without leaving a tight stripped feeling so products containing it feel comfortable for dry, sensitive or mature skin types.
Who Can Use Sodium Hydrogenated Tallowoyl Glutamate
Sodium Hydrogenated Tallowoyl Glutamate is gentle enough for most skin types, including dry, normal, combination and sensitive skin, because it cleans without stripping natural oils. Oily or acne-prone skin can also benefit from its balanced cleansing although those looking for very deep oil control might prefer stronger surfactants.
The ingredient is traditionally derived from animal tallow so it is not suitable for strict vegans or vegetarians unless the brand clearly states it uses a plant based or synthetic source. Anyone following a cruelty-free lifestyle should verify sourcing information with the manufacturer.
No specific warnings exist for pregnant or breastfeeding women when the ingredient is used topically and rinsed off, yet this is not medical advice and anyone who is expecting or nursing should check with a doctor before adding a new product to their routine.
Sodium Hydrogenated Tallowoyl Glutamate does not cause photosensitivity so there is no added need for special sun precautions beyond daily sunscreen use.
Potential Side Effects/Adverse Reactions
Reactions to the topical use of Sodium Hydrogenated Tallowoyl Glutamate vary from person to person. The side effects listed below are possible yet uncommon and most users will not experience them when the ingredient is properly formulated in cosmetic products.
- Mild skin irritation such as redness or itching
- Allergic contact dermatitis in individuals sensitive to tallow derivatives or amino acid surfactants
- Eye stinging or watering if the cleanser accidentally enters the eyes
- Transient dryness or tightness when used in very high concentrations or with hot water
If you notice any of these reactions stop using the product and consult a healthcare professional.
Comedogenic Rating
Rating: 1 out of 5. Sodium Hydrogenated Tallowoyl Glutamate is a water-soluble surfactant that rinses off completely and does not leave fatty residues that can block pores. While its tallow origin might suggest a heavier profile, converting the fatty acids into a salt greatly reduces any tendency to form an occlusive film on skin. For this reason it poses very little risk of clogging pores and is generally fine for people who are prone to acne or breakouts. Because the ingredient is almost always used in wash-off formulas, any minimal residue is further reduced, making the chance of pore congestion even lower.
Summary
Sodium Hydrogenated Tallowoyl Glutamate is primarily a cleansing agent that lifts away oil, dirt and makeup while respecting the skin barrier. It achieves this by lowering water surface tension and surrounding grime with a gentle lather that rinses clean without leaving skin tight. The ingredient appears in niche gentle cleansers and baby products rather than mainstream mass formulas, yet formulators who value mildness and a creamy foam still reach for it. Overall it is considered low risk when used as directed, with only rare reports of irritation or allergy. As with any new cosmetic, try a small patch test the first time you use a product containing it just to stay on the safe side.