Dipotassium Undecylenoyl Glutamate: What Is It, Cosmetic Uses, Benefits & Side Effects

Curious about this ingredient? In this article we're explaining exactly what it is and why it's used within cosmetic formulations.
Updated on: June 27, 2025
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We verify all information on this page using publicly available nomenclature standards from The Personal Care Products Council (PCPC), the European Commission's CosIng database and documentation provided directly by ingredient manufacturers. Our analysis is based on technical data from these sources to ensure accuracy and reliability.

What Is Dipotassium Undecylenoyl Glutamate?

Dipotassium Undecylenoyl Glutamate is a mild surfactant made by joining glutamic acid, an amino acid that occurs naturally in plants, with undecylenic acid, an oil derived from castor seed. The “dipotassium” part means the salt form is stabilized with potassium, giving the ingredient its gentle foaming action. First developed in the late 1990s by Japanese chemists searching for skin-friendly cleansers, it quickly caught the attention of formulators who wanted an option that cleans without stripping the skin. Production starts with fermenting castor oil to obtain undecylenic acid, which is then linked to plant-sourced glutamic acid in a controlled reaction. Potassium hydroxide is added to neutralize the mix, producing a water-soluble powder or liquid that blends easily into formulas. You will usually find Dipotassium Undecylenoyl Glutamate in facial cleansers, low-foaming shampoos, sulfate-free body washes, micellar waters, cream cleansers, and baby care products where a soft touch is essential.

Dipotassium Undecylenoyl Glutamate’s Cosmetic Benefits/Uses

This multi-tasking ingredient brings several handy functions to modern personal care products:

  • Cleansing: Lifts away dirt, oil and makeup while keeping the skin’s natural moisture barrier intact, leaving a fresh feel without tightness
  • Hair Conditioning: Smooths the hair shaft and helps reduce static so strands feel softer and look shinier after washing
  • Skin Conditioning: Adds a light conditioning layer that supports softness and suppleness making the skin feel comfortable even after rinsing

Who Can Use Dipotassium Undecylenoyl Glutamate

Because it is a gentle, low foaming surfactant Dipotassium Undecylenoyl Glutamate suits most skin types including dry, oily, combination and sensitive skin. Its amino acid backbone helps maintain the skin’s natural pH so even barrier-impaired or easily irritated complexions usually tolerate it well. People with a known allergy to castor bean derivatives or related fatty acids should avoid it as a precaution.

The raw materials come from plant sources, and no animal by-products or animal testing are required for its manufacture, so products made with Dipotassium Undecylenoyl Glutamate are generally considered vegan and vegetarian friendly.

Current safety assessments show no evidence of systemic absorption or hormonal activity, so pregnant or breastfeeding women can typically use cleansers containing this ingredient. This is not medical advice and anyone who is expecting or nursing should run their skincare routine past a doctor to be completely safe.

Dipotassium Undecylenoyl Glutamate does not increase sun sensitivity and can be used in day or night products without extra precautions. Its mildness also makes it suitable for children and baby care formulas.

Potential Side Effects/Adverse Reactions

Reactions to topical Dipotassium Undecylenoyl Glutamate differ from person to person. The issues listed below are only potential effects and, when the ingredient is used correctly in a well-formulated product, most people will not experience any problems.

  • Mild skin irritation such as temporary redness or itchiness in highly sensitive individuals
  • Eye stinging if the cleanser accidentally gets into the eyes
  • Contact dermatitis in rare cases of allergy to castor oil derivatives or amino acid salts
  • Dryness or tightness when used at very high concentrations or combined with harsh surfactants

If you notice any of these reactions discontinue use and consult a healthcare professional or dermatologist.

Comedogenic Rating

Rating: 1 / 5

Dipotassium Undecylenoyl Glutamate is a water-soluble surfactant that rinses away cleanly instead of sitting on the skin, and its negatively charged molecules repel the sebum that can build up inside pores. Because it does not leave an oily film and is typically used at low levels in wash-off products, the likelihood of it clogging pores is extremely low.

With such a low comedogenic rating, it is generally considered suitable for people prone to acne or frequent breakouts.

As with any ingredient, the final formula and the presence of heavier oils or waxes in the same product can influence overall pore-clogging potential.

Summary

Dipotassium Undecylenoyl Glutamate works as a gentle cleanser, mild hair conditioner and light skin conditioner because its amino acid backbone helps it bond with water while the fatty chain grabs onto dirt and oil. This dual nature lets it lift away grime without stripping moisture, smooth hair cuticles and leave skin feeling soft.

While not as famous as sulfates or coco-glucoside, the ingredient is steadily gaining fans among formulators who want sulfate-free options that still feel luxurious. You will spot it most often in Japanese and Korean skin care although more Western brands are starting to use it.

Safety data shows it is non-sensitising, non-toxic and vegan friendly, so most people can use it confidently. Still, skin is personal and it is wise to patch test any new product that contains Dipotassium Undecylenoyl Glutamate before adding it to your daily routine.

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