What Is Lauryl Diethylenediaminoglycine?
Lauryl Diethylenediaminoglycine is a lab-crafted derivative of glycine, an amino acid that occurs naturally in the body. Chemists bond glycine with a lauryl (12-carbon) chain and a diethylenediamine link, giving the molecule a part that loves water and a part that loves oil. This split personality helps it blend oily and watery ingredients inside a product.
The ingredient first appeared in hair care labs in the late 1990s when formulators looked for gentler ways to smooth static without silicone buildup. Over time it found a place in skin care too because its amino acid base feels friendly to the skin’s own proteins.
Manufacturing starts with plant-derived lauryl alcohol, which is turned into laurylamine. Chemists then connect this to diethylenediamine and finally attach glycine, yielding a clear to pale yellow liquid that dissolves easily in water.
You will most often spot Lauryl Diethylenediaminoglycine in rinse-off and leave-in hair conditioners, anti-frizz serums, detangling sprays, facial moisturizers, gel masks and lightweight body lotions. Its mild nature means it pairs well with both natural and synthetic actives, so formulators use it in everyday products rather than niche treatments.
Lauryl Diethylenediaminoglycine’s Cosmetic Benefits/Uses
This multitasker improves both the feel and performance of hair and skin formulas
- Antistatic: Reduces the buildup of static electricity on hair fibers so strands stay smooth and manageable even in dry air or after heat styling
- Hair conditioning: Deposits a thin, breathable film along the hair shaft that helps seal in moisture, add slip for easier combing and boost softness without weighing hair down
- Skin conditioning: Acts as a lightweight humectant that draws water into the upper skin layers, leaving the surface feeling comfortable and lightly hydrated
Who Can Use Lauryl Diethylenediaminoglycine
Most skin types tolerate Lauryl Diethylenediaminoglycine well. Its light humectant action suits normal, combination and oily complexions because it hydrates without leaving a heavy or greasy film. Dry or sensitive skin can also benefit since the amino acid backbone is gentle and free of common irritants. There are no known concerns for acne prone skin because the molecule is water soluble and does not clog pores.
The ingredient is synthesized from plant derived lauryl alcohol and laboratory made amino compounds so it is appropriate for vegans and vegetarians. No animal sourced raw materials or by products are used during standard production.
Available safety data show no reproductive or developmental toxicity, meaning products containing Lauryl Diethylenediaminoglycine are generally considered safe for those who are pregnant or breastfeeding. This is not medical advice; anyone expecting or nursing should still confirm product choices with a qualified healthcare professional.
The molecule does not make skin more sensitive to sunlight and has no reported interactions with UV filters or self tanning agents. It is also colorless and odorless so it will not discolor hair dye or alter fragrance profiles in finished formulas.
Potential Side Effects/Adverse Reactions
Individual responses to topical Lauryl Diethylenediaminoglycine can vary. The effects listed below are only potential outcomes and are unlikely for the average user when the ingredient is used at normal cosmetic levels.
- Mild transient redness
- Itching or tingling in people with very reactive skin
- Stinging if applied to freshly exfoliated or broken skin
- Allergic contact dermatitis in rare cases of specific amine sensitivity
If irritation or any unexpected reaction occurs stop using the product and seek medical advice if symptoms persist.
Comedogenic Rating
Score: 0/5
Lauryl Diethylenediaminoglycine is highly water soluble and leaves no oily residue on the skin. Its lightweight film rinses clean, so it does not stay behind to obstruct pores the way heavier plant oils or waxes can. Current clinical and formulary data show no link between this molecule and the formation of comedones.
Suitable for acne prone or breakout prone skin.
The only time pore clogging could become an issue is if the ingredient is used in an extremely rich product that already contains other comedogenic substances. In that case, the overall formula – not Lauryl Diethylenediaminoglycine itself – would be the concern.
Summary
Lauryl Diethylenediaminoglycine acts as an antistatic agent, hair conditioner and skin conditioner. Its dual water loving and oil loving structure lets it form a light, breathable film that smooths hair fibers, draws in moisture and calms static electricity. Because it is derived from an amino acid it integrates well with the proteins in hair and skin, giving a soft finish without buildup.
You will rarely see this ingredient highlighted on front labels yet it shows up quietly in many everyday shampoos, leave in sprays and gel moisturizers where formulators need a gentle multitasker.
Available safety studies report a very low irritation rate, no sensitization in normal use concentrations and no major toxicity concerns. While Lauryl Diethylenediaminoglycine is considered safe, it is always wise to patch test any new product just to be sure it agrees with your unique skin.