What Is Disodium Capryloyl Glutamate?
Disodium Capryloyl Glutamate is a gentle, plant-derived cleansing agent made by linking caprylic acid, which comes from coconut or palm kernel oil, with glutamic acid, an amino acid that can be sourced from sugar beets or corn. The result is a mild surfactant salt that works well in water-based formulas. It first appeared in Japanese skin cleansers in the late 1980s when formulators were searching for alternatives to harsher sulfates. Production starts with fermenting plant sugars to create glutamic acid, combining it with caprylic acid to form capryloyl glutamic acid, then neutralizing it with sodium salts to obtain the final, water-soluble powder.
Thanks to its mildness and good foaming ability it is now found in a wide range of products such as facial washes, micellar waters, baby shampoos, body washes, deodorant sprays, scalp treatments and even some sulfate-free toothpaste.
Disodium Capryloyl Glutamate’s Cosmetic Benefits/Uses
This ingredient offers several helpful functions when added to personal care formulas
- Cleansing: Helps lift away dirt, oil and everyday grime while producing a soft creamy lather that rinses off without leaving skin tight or squeaky
- Deodorant: Limits the growth of odor-causing bacteria so products like body washes or deodorant sprays keep you smelling fresh longer
- Cleansing (hair care): In shampoos it removes excess sebum and product build-up yet is mild enough for sensitive scalps and color-treated hair
Who Can Use Disodium Capryloyl Glutamate
This cleanser is considered suitable for nearly all skin types including dry, oily, combination and sensitive skin because of its low irritation profile and balanced pH. People with very compromised or highly reactive skin should still check the overall formula since other ingredients might be problematic.
Disodium Capryloyl Glutamate is synthesized from plant derived fatty acids and fermented sugars so it suits vegan and vegetarian lifestyles. No animal by-products are used in its standard manufacturing process.
Current safety data shows no specific risks for women who are pregnant or breastfeeding when the ingredient is used at typical cosmetic levels. This is not medical advice and pregnant or nursing individuals should confirm any personal care routine with a healthcare professional.
The molecule does not make skin more sensitive to sunlight and has no known interactions with common UV filters or actives. It is also non volatile so it will not contribute to inhalation issues in spray products.
Potential Side Effects/Adverse Reactions
Side effects and reactions to the topical application of Disodium Capryloyl Glutamate can vary from person to person. The following list covers potential effects although most users will not experience them when the ingredient is used correctly in a finished product.
- Mild skin redness or stinging when used in formulas with a very low pH
- Dryness or tightness if the product is left on the skin for prolonged periods
- Rare allergic contact dermatitis in individuals sensitive to coconut or corn derived ingredients
- Eye irritation if the cleanser accidentally gets into the eyes undiluted
- Scalp irritation in people with pre existing dermatitis when the concentration is higher than recommended
Discontinue use and seek medical advice if any persistent irritation or allergic reaction occurs
Comedogenic Rating
Rating: 0 / 5 – Disodium Capryloyl Glutamate is a highly water-soluble surfactant that does not leave an oily residue on skin or hair, so it does not clog pores. Its molecular structure rinses away completely and lacks the heavier fatty chains that usually cause congestion. This makes it suitable for people who are prone to acne or breakouts.
Because the ingredient is used at low concentrations and is typically combined with soothing co-surfactants, there is no evidence of it worsening comedogenicity in finished products. As with any cleanser, the overall formula matters more than the single ingredient.
Summary
Disodium Capryloyl Glutamate is a plant-derived surfactant that lifts away dirt, oil and odor-causing bacteria while producing a soft, creamy lather that feels gentle on skin and scalp. It performs these tasks by surrounding grime with its mild cleansing head group and allowing water to wash everything away without stripping the skin barrier.
The ingredient sits in the sweet spot between efficiency and mildness, so it has become popular in sulfate-free facial cleansers, baby shampoos, micellar waters and deodorant washes. Although not as widely known as classic sulfates, its presence is rising in modern formulations that target sensitive skin.
Current safety data show a very low irritation risk when used at normal cosmetic levels. Still, individual sensitivities can vary, so it is wise to patch test any new product that contains Disodium Capryloyl Glutamate before full-face or full-body use.