What Is Sesamidopropylamine Oxide?
Sesamidopropylamine Oxide is a plant-derived ingredient made from sesame oil. Chemically, it belongs to a group called amine oxides, which are mild, water-soluble surfactants. Manufacturers start with the fatty acids found in sesame oil, link them to a short chain called dimethylaminopropyl, then introduce oxygen to form the final amine oxide structure. This process creates a gentle cleansing agent that also carries some of the natural nutrients of sesame.
The cosmetic world began using sesame-based surfactants in the late 20th century as consumers looked for alternatives to harsher sulfate detergents. Formulators noticed that amine oxides offered good foam without stripping skin or hair, so Sesamidopropylamine Oxide found its way into rinse-off products first. Today it appears in shampoos, liquid hand soaps, facial cleansers, bath gels, micellar waters, make-up removing wipes, hair masks and some lightweight conditioners. Its mild nature and plant origin match the growing trend toward gentler, more sustainable personal care formulas.
Sesamidopropylamine Oxide’s Cosmetic Benefits/Uses
This multitasking ingredient improves both the feel and performance of many everyday products.
- Cleansing: Lifts away dirt, excess oil and product buildup while remaining gentle enough for daily use on skin and hair
- Hair Conditioning: Helps smooth the hair cuticle, making strands feel softer and easier to detangle
- Skin Conditioning: Leaves a light, moisturized feel that reduces tightness after washing
- Foam Boosting: Increases and stabilizes lather so products feel rich and spread easily, even in hard water
Who Can Use Sesamidopropylamine Oxide
Thanks to its mild plant-derived nature, Sesamidopropylamine Oxide suits most skin types including dry, normal, combination and oily. It is generally well tolerated by sensitive skin too because it tends to cleanse without stripping away natural moisture. People dealing with severe eczema or open wounds might still prefer to avoid any foaming agents until the skin barrier is stronger.
The ingredient contains no animal-derived materials so it is considered suitable for both vegans and vegetarians. Its production relies on sesame oil and standard cosmetic processing agents rather than animal fats or by-products.
No specific warnings exist for pregnant or breastfeeding women when it comes to topical use of Sesamidopropylamine Oxide. It is not known to penetrate deeply or disrupt hormones. Still, this is not medical advice. Anyone who is expecting or nursing should have their healthcare provider review all personal care products just to be safe.
Sesamidopropylamine Oxide does not increase photosensitivity, so users do not need special sun protection beyond the usual daily SPF recommendation.
Potential Side Effects/Adverse Reactions
Reactions to topical Sesamidopropylamine Oxide differ from person to person. The points below outline potential side effects that could occur, though most users will not experience them when the ingredient is used at typical levels in well-formulated products.
- Mild skin irritation – a temporary stinging or burning sensation, often linked to compromised skin barriers or high concentrations
- Eye irritation – possible redness or watering if the cleanser accidentally gets into the eyes
- Contact dermatitis – rare allergic response leading to redness, itching or small bumps
- Scalp dryness or flaking – uncommon and usually resolved by alternating with richer conditioners
If you notice persistent redness, itching or any discomfort after using a product that contains Sesamidopropylamine Oxide stop using it and consult a healthcare professional for guidance.
Comedogenic Rating
Rating: 0 / 5 (non-comedogenic)
Sesamidopropylamine Oxide is a water-soluble surfactant that rinses away completely and does not linger in pores. It lacks heavy oils or waxes that could block follicles which is why formulators consider it non-comedogenic. Because it appears mostly in wash-off products the brief skin contact time further lowers any clogging risk.
Suitable for acne-prone and breakout-prone skin.
No significant data suggest that hard water, pH shifts or common cosmetic preservatives change its pore-clogging profile so the rating remains at the lowest end across typical formulations.
Summary
Sesamidopropylamine Oxide acts as a gentle cleanser, foam booster, hair conditioner and skin conditioner. Its amine oxide structure lowers surface tension so dirt and oil lift away while its sesame-derived fatty tail softens skin and smooths hair cuticles.
Although not as famous as coconut-based surfactants or classic sulfates it is quietly gaining fans among brands focused on mild plant-based formulas.
Current research and decades of in-use data show it to be safe for most people with a very low risk of irritation or acne. Still, skin is personal so patch test any new product containing this ingredient to make sure it suits you.