What Is Potassium Undecylenoyl Glutamate?
Potassium Undecylenoyl Glutamate is a plant-derived amino acid surfactant created by combining glutamic acid, a naturally occurring amino acid, with undecylenic acid sourced from castor or coconut oil then neutralizing the resulting compound with potassium. The finished ingredient is a mild, water-soluble salt that carries both oil-loving and water-loving parts, which helps it interact smoothly with skin and hair. First introduced in Japanese skincare labs during the 1990s as an alternative to harsher sulfates, it quickly found a place in gentle cleansers and hair products because of its silky feel and low irritation potential. Manufacturing involves esterifying glutamic acid with undecylenic acid, followed by saponification to form the potassium salt. Today you will spot it in shampoos, conditioners, scalp treatments, sulfate-free liquid soaps, facial cleansers and some leave-on hair serums where a soft, weightless finish is desired.
Potassium Undecylenoyl Glutamate’s Cosmetic Benefits/Uses
This ingredient is prized for one main reason in cosmetic formulas.
Hair conditioning: Its amphiphilic structure helps smooth the cuticle, reduce static and enhance softness without weighing hair down. It can also improve wet combing and leave a light, silky after-feel that suits fine to normal hair types and sensitive scalps.
Who Can Use Potassium Undecylenoyl Glutamate
This gentle amino acid surfactant is generally suitable for all skin and scalp types, including dry, oily, combination and especially sensitive or easily irritated skin because it cleanses without stripping natural moisture. People with very dry or highly compromised skin could still benefit, though they may need richer supporting ingredients for extra hydration. There are no specific skin types that need to avoid it unless an individual has a known allergy to glutamic acid derivatives or castor oil–derived ingredients.
The molecule is synthesized entirely from plant sources, so it fits vegan and vegetarian lifestyles with no animal by-products involved in its manufacture or processing.
No data suggest any risk to pregnant or breastfeeding women when the ingredient is used topically at the low levels found in cosmetics, but this is not medical advice and anyone who is pregnant or nursing should review new products with a healthcare professional to be certain they meet personal safety needs.
Potassium Undecylenoyl Glutamate does not make skin or hair more sensitive to sunlight and has no known interactions with UV exposure. It is also fragrance free and nonvolatile so it will not contribute to inhalation sensitivity during use.
Potential Side Effects/Adverse Reactions
Reactions to topical Potassium Undecylenoyl Glutamate differ from person to person. The points below outline potential side effects that could occur, but they are uncommon when the ingredient is formulated and used correctly.
- Mild skin or scalp redness or stinging, especially on compromised skin barriers
- Transient eye irritation if the product accidentally gets into the eyes
- Allergic contact dermatitis in individuals sensitized to fatty acid or amino acid derivatives
- Excessive dryness if used in very high concentrations without moisturizers
If any of these reactions develop users should discontinue the product immediately and seek guidance from a qualified health professional.
Comedogenic Rating
Rating: 0. Potassium Undecylenoyl Glutamate is a small, highly water-soluble salt that rinses away cleanly and does not leave an oily film on skin or hair, so it has virtually no potential to clog pores. That makes it suitable for people who are prone to acne or breakouts. Because it is often used in rinse-off cleansers and shampoos, any residue left behind is minimal, further lowering the chance of blocked pores. There are no published reports linking this ingredient to comedogenic reactions even at the higher use levels found in concentrated shampoos.
Summary
Potassium Undecylenoyl Glutamate serves mainly as a gentle hair-conditioning surfactant. Its amphiphilic structure binds to oil and water, allowing it to lift away dirt while depositing a thin, invisible layer that smooths the cuticle, cuts static and improves combability without heaviness. Although not yet a household name, it shows up more often in modern sulfate-free shampoos, mild facial cleansers and leave-in sprays aimed at sensitive users wanting a soft feel.
Current research and decades of cosmetic use indicate a very low risk of irritation or pore clogging, making it broadly safe for daily use. As with any new cosmetic ingredient, it is wise to patch test a product first to confirm personal tolerance.