What Is Laur/Myrist/Palmitamidobutyl Guanidine Acetate?
Laur/Myrist/Palmitamidobutyl Guanidine Acetate is a group of gentle surfactants made by linking guanidine, a naturally occurring compound found in plants and the human body, with fatty acids of different lengths taken from coconut or palm oil. The fatty acids involved are lauric, myristic and palmitic which give the ingredient its three-part name. Chemists first explored this blend in the early 2000s while searching for milder options to replace older, harsher cleansing agents. By combining the conditioning nature of fatty acids with the pH-buffering guanidine group they created a molecule that cleans without stripping skin or hair.
The manufacturing process begins with refining coconut or sustainable palm oil to isolate C12, C14 and C16 fatty acids. These acids are converted to amides then reacted with a short chain containing guanidine. Finally the material is neutralized with acetic acid forming a stable acetate salt. The result is a water-dispersible powder or paste that formulators can drop into a wide range of products.
You will most often spot Laur/Myrist/Palmitamidobutyl Guanidine Acetate in sulfate-free shampoos, 2-in-1 cleansers, facial washes, micellar waters, shower gels and cream-based hair masks. Brands also add it to gentle baby washes and low-foam shaving creams where a soft touch is important.
Laur/Myrist/Palmitamidobutyl Guanidine Acetate’s Cosmetic Benefits/Uses
This ingredient earns its place in formulas for a few key reasons
- Cleansing – Its surfactant head lifts away oil, sweat and buildup while its fatty tail keeps the feel soft so skin and hair never feel squeaky or tight
- Hair conditioning – The fatty amide part lightly coats strands smoothing rough cuticles which improves slip, reduces static and makes detangling easier
Who Can Use Laur/Myrist/Palmitamidobutyl Guanidine Acetate
This ingredient is mild enough for most skin types including dry, oily, combination and sensitive skin. Because it rinses away cleanly without leaving a heavy film it is also a good match for acne-prone skin that can be weighed down by richer cleansers. There are no known concerns for mature or reactive skin although, as with any surfactant, very compromised or severely dehydrated skin may prefer a short contact time and plenty of follow-up moisture.
Laur/Myrist/Palmitamidobutyl Guanidine Acetate is produced from plant oils and contains no animal-derived substances so it is suitable for both vegans and vegetarians. When the fatty acids come from certified sustainable palm sources the finished material meets most ethical and environmental standards found on today’s labels.
Current ingredient safety reviews show no evidence that topical use poses a risk during pregnancy or while breastfeeding. This is not medical advice and anyone who is pregnant or nursing should still run new products past their doctor just to be safe.
The molecule does not absorb UV light or make skin more sensitive to the sun so it is not considered photosensitising. It is also odorless, colorless in solution and compatible with leave-on or rinse-off products which makes it easy to fit into almost any routine.
Potential Side Effects/Adverse Reactions
Side effects and reactions to the topical application of Laur/Myrist/Palmitamidobutyl Guanidine Acetate can vary from person to person. The points below cover potential issues and are highly unlikely to be the typical user experience. Assuming the ingredient has been formulated correctly most people will not notice any negative effects.
- Mild skin irritation – very sensitive skin may experience temporary redness or a tingling sensation after use
- Eye stinging – if the cleanser accidentally drips into the eyes it can cause brief discomfort until rinsed out with water
- Contact dermatitis – rare allergic responses such as itching, rash or swelling can occur in individuals allergic to any component of the molecule
- Scalp or hair dryness – over-cleansing with high concentrations can strip natural oils leading to dull or brittle strands
If any adverse reaction develops stop using the product and seek advice from a healthcare professional.
Comedogenic Rating
Rating: 1/5 – Laur/Myrist/Palmitamidobutyl Guanidine Acetate is highly water soluble and designed to rinse away cleanly so it leaves little to no residue that could clog pores. While it is built from fatty acids those acids are locked into a surfactant structure rather than sitting on skin as free oils which keeps the pore-blocking risk very low. Formulas that pair it with heavier emollients could still feel rich but the ingredient itself is unlikely to trigger bumps.
Because of this low score it is generally suitable for people who are prone to acne or breakouts.
Keep in mind that overall product composition matters; a cleanser can only be as non-comedogenic as the rest of its ingredient list.
Summary
Laur/Myrist/Palmitamidobutyl Guanidine Acetate works as a gentle cleanser and light hair conditioner. Its guanidine head attracts water and grime while the attached lauric, myristic and palmitic tails soften skin and smooth hair cuticles. This balance lets it lift away sweat and oil without leaving strands or skin feeling stripped.
You will see it mostly in sulfate-free shampoos, baby washes and mild facial cleansers, so it is not yet a household name but formulators who need a mild multitasker reach for it more each year.
Current data shows it is safe for topical use with a low chance of irritation when used as directed. As with any new product doing a quick patch test is still the smartest way to rule out individual sensitivities.