Laurdimonium Hydroxypropyl Laurylglucosides Chloride: 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: July 1, 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 Laurdimonium Hydroxypropyl Laurylglucosides Chloride?

Laurdimonium Hydroxypropyl Laurylglucosides Chloride is a plant derived surfactant made by linking natural sugar molecules from corn or potatoes to fatty alcohols that usually come from coconut or palm oil. These sugar based units are then reacted with a gentle conditioning agent called dimethyldodecanamine and finished with a chloride group to give the ingredient its mild positive charge. The result is a clear to pale yellow liquid that is water soluble and easy to blend.

Sugar surfactants began appearing in personal care in the early 1990s when brands looked for milder cleansers to replace harsher sulfates. Chemists combined the cleansing power of alkyl glucosides with the silky after feel of quaternary conditioners and created Laurdimonium Hydroxypropyl Laurylglucosides Chloride. Modern production uses a low temperature, solvent free process which keeps waste to a minimum and preserves the renewable nature of the raw materials.

You will most often see this ingredient in sulfate free shampoos, micellar facial cleansers, daily body washes, baby care formulas, leave-on hair conditioners, lightweight moisturizers and sheet masks where it helps the product glide on smoothly and rinse away without residue.

Laurdimonium Hydroxypropyl Laurylglucosides Chloride’s Cosmetic Benefits/Uses

This versatile ingredient improves both how a product works and how it feels on skin or hair.

  • Skin Conditioning – leaves a soft hydrated feel, reduces tightness after cleansing and helps detangle hair so it combs easily
  • Cleansing – lifts dirt oil and makeup without stripping the natural moisture barrier making the formula gentle enough for sensitive skin and daily use

Who Can Use Laurdimonium Hydroxypropyl Laurylglucosides Chloride

This mild sugar-based surfactant is generally well tolerated by all skin types including dry, oily, combination and sensitive thanks to its low irritation profile and moisture-friendly character. It is non-comedogenic, so acne-prone users can usually enjoy its silky after feel without clogging pores. There are no skin types that must avoid it unless an individual has a specific allergy to coconut, palm derivatives or quaternary ammonium compounds.

The ingredient is made from plant sugars and plant-derived fatty alcohols, and the quaternary conditioning agent used in its manufacture does not come from animals. Because of this it is considered suitable for vegans and vegetarians when sourced from suppliers that follow cruelty-free practices.

Current safety data show no issues for topical use during pregnancy or while breastfeeding. Still, this is not medical advice and anyone who is pregnant or nursing should check with a healthcare professional before adding new personal care products to their routine.

Laurodimonium Hydroxypropyl Laurylglucosides Chloride does not increase photosensitivity, so it will not make skin more prone to sunburn. As with any cleanser or conditioner the rest of the formula, not the ingredient itself, will determine SPF needs.

Potential Side Effects/Adverse Reactions

Reactions to topical Laurdimonium Hydroxypropyl Laurylglucosides Chloride vary from person to person. The following is a list of potential side effects, but most users will not experience them when the ingredient is formulated and used correctly.

  • Mild redness or stinging on very sensitive or compromised skin
  • Contact dermatitis in individuals allergic to coconut, palm derivatives or quaternary ammonium compounds
  • Eye irritation if the product is not adequately rinsed out after direct exposure

If any irritation or discomfort occurs discontinue use and consult a qualified healthcare professional.

Comedogenic Rating

Rating: 0 / 5

Laurodimonium Hydroxypropyl Laurylglucosides Chloride is highly water soluble and rinses clean without leaving an oily or waxy residue that could block pores. The positive charge helps it bind briefly to skin and hair for conditioning benefits yet it disperses easily with water, further reducing any chance of buildup. Because of this profile it is considered non-comedogenic and is generally suitable for acne-prone or breakout-prone skin.

The ingredient also has a relatively large molecular structure which makes it less likely to penetrate into follicles where clogs start. Formulas that pair it with heavy oils or butters could change the overall pore-clogging potential, so always look at the whole product rather than a single ingredient.

Summary

Laurodimonium Hydroxypropyl Laurylglucosides Chloride acts as a gentle cleanser and a lightweight skin and hair conditioner. Its sugar-derived surfactant portion lifts away dirt while the quaternary section smooths cuticles and leaves skin feeling soft, so it delivers cleansing, conditioning and mildness in one step.

While not as famous as sulfates or coco-betaine it is finding a solid fan base in sulfate free shampoos, micellar waters and baby washes that focus on a kinder cleansing experience.

Current data show it is low in irritation and non-comedogenic, making it safe for most users including sensitive and acne-prone skin. Still, every formula is different and everyone’s skin is unique so it is always smart to patch test any new product before full use.

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