Disodium Lauroamphodiacetate Lauroyl Sarcosinate: 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 Disodium Lauroamphodiacetate Lauroyl Sarcosinate?

Disodium Lauroamphodiacetate Lauroyl Sarcosinate is a blend of two mild surfactants, Disodium Lauroamphoacetate and Lauroyl Sarcosinate, both of which are usually derived from natural fatty acids found in coconut or palm kernel oil. When chemists join these two ingredients they create a multifunctional complex that cleans, conditions and boosts foam without being harsh on skin or hair. The mix first appeared in gentle baby shampoos during the late 1990s when brands were looking for alternatives to older sulfate-based cleansers. Production starts with plant-sourced lauric acid that is reacted with amino acids to form Lauroyl Sarcosinate, while Disodium Lauroamphoacetate is made by treating lauric acid with an amphoteric amine and then neutralizing it. The two finished surfactants are blended together under controlled pH and temperature to lock in stability and performance. You will now find this complex in sulfate-free shampoos, everyday body washes, facial cleansers, bubble baths, shaving foams and even some sheet mask essences that need light cleansing action.

Disodium Lauroamphodiacetate Lauroyl Sarcosinate’s Cosmetic Benefits/Uses

This ingredient offers several helpful roles in modern formulas:

  • Foaming: Creates a creamy lather that makes products feel rich and ensures easy spread over skin or hair
  • Hair Conditioning: Leaves a soft touch and helps reduce static so hair feels smoother after rinsing
  • Cleansing: Lifts away dirt oil and product buildup while staying gentle enough for sensitive types
  • Emulsifying: Helps keep water and oil parts of a formula mixed so the product stays uniform from the first use to the last
  • Foam Boosting: Strengthens and stabilizes bubbles produced by other surfactants letting brands cut back on harsher cleansers without sacrificing user experience

Who Can Use Disodium Lauroamphodiacetate Lauroyl Sarcosinate

This surfactant blend is considered mild enough for every skin type including dry, oily, combination and sensitive skin because it cleans without stripping the skin’s natural barrier. People prone to eczema or itch can often tolerate it better than stronger sulfate cleansers since it has a low potential for irritation.

Disodium Lauroamphodiacetate Lauroyl Sarcosinate is typically made from plant sourced fatty acids and amino acids, not animal by-products, so formulations using it are usually suitable for vegetarians and vegans. Always double-check the full ingredient list though as other components in the same product might not be animal free.

No evidence suggests that the complex penetrates deeply or builds up systemically, so it is generally viewed as safe for use during pregnancy or while breastfeeding. This is not medical advice and anyone who is pregnant or nursing should confirm any skincare choice with a healthcare professional.

The ingredient does not increase photosensitivity, so it will not make skin more prone to sunburn. It is also fragrance free and gluten free which may be relevant to people with those particular concerns.

Potential Side Effects/Adverse Reactions

Responses to topical Disodium Lauroamphodiacetate Lauroyl Sarcosinate can vary from person to person. The effects listed below are only potential outcomes and are unlikely for most users when the ingredient is properly formulated and used as directed.

  • Mild eye stinging if the product is not thoroughly rinsed
  • Temporary skin tightness after cleansing in very dry climates
  • Contact irritation such as redness or itching in people with an existing surfactant allergy
  • Foam related dryness if used in high concentrations or left on the skin for extended periods

If any discomfort or irritation occurs discontinue use and seek advice from a healthcare professional.

Comedogenic Rating

Rating: 0 / 5
Disodium Lauroamphodiacetate Lauroyl Sarcosinate is a water-soluble surfactant complex that fully rinses away and does not leave an oily film that could block pores. Its molecules are designed to surround dirt and oil then wash off, so they have little chance to settle inside follicles. No published data links this blend to comedones even in acne studies that use high concentrations in rinse-off formulas.

Because of this non-pore-clogging profile the ingredient is considered suitable for people who are prone to acne or frequent breakouts.

One extra point worth noting is that the blend is almost always used in products meant to be rinsed off within seconds, further lowering any clogging risk compared with leave-on ingredients.

Summary

Disodium Lauroamphodiacetate Lauroyl Sarcosinate works as a gentle multitasker: it lifts away dirt and oil, generates a rich stable foam, keeps water and oil phases blended and leaves hair feeling soft with reduced static. It achieves these results by combining two mild surfactants whose structures balance cleansing power with skin-friendly hydrating segments.

You will spot this complex most often in sulfate-free shampoos, baby washes and mild facial cleansers. It is not a household name like sodium lauryl sulfate yet formulators value it for adding creamier lather without harshness, so its use is steadily growing in modern gentle care lines.

Safety reviews find the blend non-sensitizing and non-comedogenic when used as directed. Although adverse reactions are rare it is always smart to patch test any new product to make sure it plays nicely with your individual skin.

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