What Is Sodium Bis-Hydroxyethylglycinate Lauryl-Glucosides Crosspolymer?
Sodium Bis-Hydroxyethylglycinate Lauryl-Glucosides Crosspolymer is a plant derived polymer created from lauryl glucoside, a surfactant that starts its life as glucose from corn or wheat blended with fatty alcohol from coconut or palm. Chemists link these building blocks together with carefully chosen reaction steps involving 1,3-dichloro-2-propanol, then 1-(bis(2-hydroxyethyl)amino)-3-chloro-2-propanol and finally sodium monochloroacetate, forming a stable crosslinked network that enhances performance in water based formulas. The ingredient first gained traction in the early 2000s when formulators searched for mild sulfate free cleansing agents that could lather well while staying gentle on skin and hair. Its success in natural inspired shampoos and facial cleansers paved the way for wider use in rinse off masks, body washes, baby washes, micellar waters, exfoliating gels, foaming hand soaps and even lightweight conditioning sprays.
Sodium Bis-Hydroxyethylglycinate Lauryl-Glucosides Crosspolymer’s Cosmetic Benefits/Uses
This multifunctional polymer boosts the sensory and cleansing qualities of many modern formulas
- Cleansing: Helps dissolve oils and impurities so they rinse away easily, giving skin and hair a fresh clean feel without excessive stripping
- Hair Conditioning: Leaves behind a light, smooth film that reduces static, improves detangling and imparts a soft touch after rinsing
- Foam Boosting: Stabilizes and increases foam volume making washes feel rich and luxurious even in sulfate free systems
Who Can Use Sodium Bis-Hydroxyethylglycinate Lauryl-Glucosides Crosspolymer
Because this polymer is classified as a mild plant derived cleanser, it tends to suit most skin types including oily, combination, dry and even sensitive skin. Its gentle action means it does not aggressively strip the skin’s natural oils, yet it still removes daily grime so people prone to irritation usually tolerate it well. Those with extremely reactive or compromised skin should still keep an eye on the overall formula, since other ingredients rather than the polymer itself may cause problems.
The raw materials are sourced from corn or wheat sugars and coconut or palm fatty alcohols, with no animal by-products involved, so the ingredient is considered suitable for both vegans and vegetarians.
Current safety data show no specific concerns for pregnant or breastfeeding women when the polymer is used in rinse-off or leave-on cosmetics at typical levels. This is not medical advice and anyone who is pregnant or nursing should review their skincare routine with a qualified doctor before use, just to be safe.
The ingredient does not make skin more sensitive to sunlight, so it is not regarded as photosensitising. It is also compatible with color-treated hair and commonly used in baby cleansers, adding to its reputation for gentleness.
Potential Side Effects/Adverse Reactions
Reactions to topical Sodium Bis-Hydroxyethylglycinate Lauryl-Glucosides Crosspolymer vary from person to person. The points below list potential side effects but most users will not experience them when the ingredient is used correctly in a well-formulated product.
- Temporary skin redness or stinging in very sensitive individuals
- Mild dryness if used in a highly concentrated or poorly balanced formula
- Eye irritation if the product accidentally gets into the eyes before rinsing
- Rare allergic contact dermatitis in people with a specific sensitivity to glucoside-based surfactants
If you experience any discomfort or persistent irritation stop using the product and seek advice from a healthcare professional.
Comedogenic Rating
Rating: 0 (non-comedogenic)
This ingredient is a large, water-soluble polymer that stays suspended in the cleansing phase and rinses off easily, so it does not sit in pores or create an oily film that could trap debris. No studies or field reports link it to clogged pores even in leave-on sprays where levels are low. For these reasons it is considered suitable for people who are prone to acne or breakouts.
Because it helps lift away sebum rather than add to it, the polymer can actually support a clearer skin environment when used in balanced formulas.
Summary
Sodium Bis-Hydroxyethylglycinate Lauryl-Glucosides Crosspolymer works as a gentle cleanser, foam booster and lightweight hair conditioner. Its crosslinked structure stabilizes micelles that sweep away oil and dirt, cushions foam bubbles for a creamy lather and leaves behind a smooth anti-static finish on hair.
It is moderately popular in sulfate-free shampoos, facial washes and baby cleansers because it offers mildness with a satisfying lather, though its long name and higher cost keep it from being as common as simpler glucosides.
Overall safety data are good with very low irritation or allergy rates. As with any new skincare ingredient it is smart to patch test a product first and monitor your skin for any unexpected reaction.