What Is Sodium Lauryl Diethylenediaminoglycinate?
Sodium Lauryl Diethylenediaminoglycinate is a synthetic ingredient made by reacting fatty acids from coconut or palm oil with diethylenediamine, then neutralizing the mixture with sodium. The result is a mild surfactant that carries a negative charge in water, which helps it lift away dirt and oil. The compound was first explored in the late 1980s as chemists searched for gentler, multi-tasking alternatives to harsher sulfates. Its ability to clean while also limiting microbial growth quickly made it popular in rinse-off cosmetics. Production today is done in closed reactors where temperature and pH are carefully controlled to ensure a consistent, high-purity powder or liquid.
You will most often spot Sodium Lauryl Diethylenediaminoglycinate in facial cleansers, body washes, make-up removing wipes, clay masks, micellar waters, lightweight lotions and even some hair conditioners. Formulators like it because it foams moderately, pairs well with other surfactants and does not strip the skin.
Sodium Lauryl Diethylenediaminoglycinate’s Cosmetic Benefits/Uses
Here is how this ingredient improves the products you use every day
- Antimicrobial: Helps limit the growth of odor-causing and spoilage microbes so formulas stay fresh longer and are less likely to irritate the skin
- Cleansing: Acts as a mild surfactant that loosens dirt, oil and make-up allowing them to rinse away without leaving a tight or squeaky feel
- Emulsifying: Keeps oil and water phases blended so lotions, creams and masks remain smooth and stable throughout their shelf life
Who Can Use Sodium Lauryl Diethylenediaminoglycinate
This ingredient suits most skin types, including normal, oily, combination and sensitive skin, because it is a mild cleanser that does not aggressively strip natural oils. Dry or eczema-prone skin can usually tolerate it as well when the overall formula is balanced with moisturizers, but extremely compromised or cracked skin may still feel a bit tight after frequent use, so extra hydration is advised.
Sodium Lauryl Diethylenediaminoglycinate is produced from plant oils and contains no animal by-products, making it acceptable for vegans and vegetarians provided the finished product meets cruelty-free standards.
The compound has a solid safety profile for pregnant or breastfeeding women. Current cosmetic ingredient reviews have not flagged it for hormonal or developmental concerns. Nonetheless this is not medical advice and anyone who is pregnant or nursing should discuss all skincare products with a qualified healthcare professional to be safe.
Unlike some exfoliating acids or retinoids, this surfactant does not increase photosensitivity, so there is no special sun-care warning beyond the usual recommendation to wear sunscreen daily.
Potential Side Effects/Adverse Reactions
Individual responses to topical Sodium Lauryl Diethylenediaminoglycinate can vary. The following list covers possible but uncommon reactions assuming the ingredient is properly formulated and used as directed. Most people will not experience these issues.
- Mild skin irritation such as stinging or redness, especially with overuse or on already inflamed skin
- Dryness or a tight feeling if the surrounding formula lacks adequate moisturizing agents
- Allergic contact dermatitis in rare cases for those sensitive to amine-based surfactants
- Eye irritation if the product accidentally gets into the eyes during rinsing
If you notice persistent discomfort, redness or any other adverse reaction discontinue use immediately and consult a healthcare professional.
Comedogenic Rating
Rating: 0 (non-comedogenic)
Sodium Lauryl Diethylenediaminoglycinate is highly water soluble and designed to rinse away without leaving a greasy film. Its molecular structure lacks heavy oils or waxes that might clog pores, and it is typically used at low percentages in wash-off products, further reducing any chance of buildup. For these reasons it scores a 0 on the comedogenic scale.
People who are prone to acne or breakouts can generally use products containing this ingredient without added concern.
Because the ingredient is almost always part of rinse-off formulas, any transient residue is minimal, which helps keep the overall pore-clogging risk extremely low.
Summary
Sodium Lauryl Diethylenediaminoglycinate works as a triple-duty agent: it lifts away dirt and oil as a mild cleanser, keeps formulas free from unwanted microbes thanks to its antimicrobial action and stabilises oil-and-water mixtures so lotions or masks stay smooth. It accomplishes these tasks by carrying a negatively charged head that attracts grime, while its fatty tail anchors into oils, allowing everything to rinse cleanly with water.
The ingredient is not as widely used as classic sulfates yet it is growing in popularity among brands looking for gentler alternatives that still foam and preserve well.
Overall safety data are solid with low irritation rates and no links to systemic health issues. As with any new cosmetic product it is wise to patch test on a small area first to make sure your skin agrees with the full formula.