What Is Sodium C14-15 Hydroxy Alkanoyl/Isoalkanoyl Glycinate?
Sodium C14-15 Hydroxy Alkanoyl/Isoalkanoyl Glycinate is a mild surfactant made by reacting fatty acids that have 14 to 15 carbon atoms with the amino acid glycine, then neutralizing the mixture with sodium. The fatty acids usually come from plant oils such as coconut or palm so the final ingredient is partly plant derived and partly synthetic. First introduced in the early 2000s as brands looked for skin friendly alternatives to traditional sulfates, it gained traction in facial cleansers and shampoos where a gentle, creamy foam was desired. Production starts with splitting the source oil into its fatty acids, adding a hydroxyl group for extra water loving power, attaching glycine to form an amide then finishing with sodium to make it water soluble.
Thanks to its balance of oil loving and water loving parts, formulators place it in foaming face washes, micellar waters, body washes, sulfate free shampoos, bubble baths, shaving creams, even some mild baby cleansers. It also appears in two in one cleansing masks and scrub cleansers that need a stable foam while carrying exfoliating particles.
Sodium C14-15 Hydroxy Alkanoyl/Isoalkanoyl Glycinate’s Cosmetic Benefits/Uses
This ingredient earns its spot on labels because it wears several hats in a formula.
- Cleansing: Lifts dirt, oil and makeup from skin or hair and lets water rinse them away without the squeaky dry feel that harsher surfactants can leave.
- Emulsifying: Helps keep oil and water based ingredients blended so the product stays uniform from the first pump to the last.
- Foam Boosting: Builds a rich stable lather that feels luxurious and spreads the cleanser evenly which can improve user experience and cleaning efficiency.
Who Can Use Sodium C14-15 Hydroxy Alkanoyl/Isoalkanoyl Glycinate
This gentle surfactant tends to suit most skin types including dry, normal, combination and oily skin because it cleans without stripping the natural moisture barrier. Sensitive skin usually tolerates it well since it is sulfate free and has a skin friendly pH, although every person is different so very reactive skin could still prefer shorter contact time or rinse off formats. It is not known to aggravate acne or rosacea and is mild enough for use in baby formulas.
The fatty acids used to make the ingredient are typically sourced from coconut or palm oil and the remaining components are synthetic, so products containing it are generally considered vegan and vegetarian friendly. Those following a strict plant based lifestyle may still wish to confirm that the brand does not use any animal derived processing aids.
No data indicates that Sodium C14-15 Hydroxy Alkanoyl/Isoalkanoyl Glycinate poses a special risk to women who are pregnant or breastfeeding when used topically in rinse off or leave on products. This is not medical advice and anyone who is pregnant or nursing should show the full product ingredient list to a qualified healthcare provider before use just to be safe.
The ingredient does not increase sensitivity to sunlight and there are no known contraindications with common actives like retinoids or alpha hydroxy acids. It rinses clean so it can be paired with virtually any routine.
Potential Side Effects/Adverse Reactions
Individual responses to topical Sodium C14-15 Hydroxy Alkanoyl/Isoalkanoyl Glycinate can vary. The points below list potential side effects though most people will not experience them when the ingredient is formulated and used correctly.
- Transient eye stinging if the cleanser gets into the eyes
- Mild skin redness or burning sensation in very sensitive users
- Allergic contact dermatitis in rare cases of glycine or fatty acid sensitivity
- Dryness or tightness if used in high concentration or combined with very hot water
- Scalp irritation such as itching or flaking after prolonged contact in shampoos
If any discomfort or irritation develops discontinue use and consult a healthcare professional for guidance.
Comedogenic Rating
Rating: 0 / 5 Sodium C14-15 Hydroxy Alkanoyl/Isoalkanoyl Glycinate is water soluble and designed to rinse completely off skin so it does not sit in pores or leave an occlusive film that could trap oil or bacteria. Its molecular size and quick rinse profile further lower any clogging potential. As a result it is generally suitable for acne prone or breakout prone skin. Because it needs water to work it only remains on the skin for the short time you are cleansing, which also limits any chance of buildup. No studies or user reports suggest a pattern of pore blockage with this surfactant.
Summary
Sodium C14-15 Hydroxy Alkanoyl/Isoalkanoyl Glycinate acts as a mild multitasking surfactant that cleanses by surrounding dirt and oil so they wash away, stabilises oil and water mixtures to keep formulas uniform and boosts foam to create a creamy lather that spreads easily. These functions come from its balanced structure with an oil loving tail and a water loving glycine head that work together at the skin interface.
The ingredient enjoys moderate popularity, especially in sulfate free facial cleansers, gentle shampoos and baby washes where brands want a lush lather without the harshness of traditional sulfates. It is not as common as classic surfactants like sodium laureth sulfate but its use has grown steadily as consumers look for gentler options.
Current data shows it is safe for topical use in both rinse off and leave on products with a very low risk of irritation or sensitisation for most people. As with any new cosmetic product it is wise to perform a quick patch test to confirm personal tolerance before full use.