What Is Sodium Succinate Laurylglucoside Crosspolymer?
Sodium Succinate Laurylglucoside Crosspolymer is a plant-derived surfactant made by taking lauryl glucoside, a sugar-based cleanser that comes from coconut or palm oils blended with glucose, and linking its molecules together in a controlled reaction. First, lauryl glucoside is treated with 1,3-dichloro-2-propanol to create a crosslinked network, then that network is further reacted with succinic anhydride. The end result is a bigger, more stable polymer that keeps the mild, skin-friendly nature of the original sugar surfactant while improving its performance in water.
This ingredient entered the market in the early 2000s when brands looked for sulfate-free surÂfactants that could still give a rich lather. Chemists found that crosslinking lauryl glucoside strengthened its foaming power without making it harsh, opening the door for use in modern gentle cleansers.
Sodium Succinate Laurylglucoside Crosspolymer usually shows up in face washes, micellar waters, body washes, bubble baths and shampoo bars. It can also be part of foam-based masks or scrubs where a creamy lather helps spread the product evenly.
Sodium Succinate Laurylglucoside Crosspolymer’s Cosmetic Benefits/Uses
Here is what this multitasking surfactant brings to a formula
- Cleansing – lifts away dirt, sweat and excess oil while staying mild enough for daily use and sensitive skin
- Foam Boosting – creates a dense, cushiony lather that makes a wash feel luxurious and helps the product glide over skin or hair for better coverage
Who Can Use Sodium Succinate Laurylglucoside Crosspolymer
This gentle sugar based surfactant suits most skin types including normal, dry, oily and combination skin. Its mild nature makes it a good pick for sensitive or reactive complexions that cannot tolerate harsher cleansers. People with severely compromised skin barriers should still introduce any new cleanser slowly, but no specific skin type is considered incompatible.
The ingredient is sourced from plant oils and glucose with no animal derived matter, so it is acceptable for vegans and vegetarians. It is also commonly used in cruelty free lines.
No data links Sodium Succinate Laurylglucoside Crosspolymer to developmental or hormonal concerns, and the molecule is too large to penetrate deeply. Products that contain it are generally viewed as safe during pregnancy and breastfeeding, yet this is not medical advice and anyone who is pregnant or nursing should check with a healthcare professional before starting a new skincare product just to be safe.
The polymer does not increase photosensitivity. It can be used morning or night without raising the risk of sunburn. It is also color safe for dyed hair and works well in sulfate free shampoo routines.
Potential Side Effects/Adverse Reactions
Side effects and reactions to topical Sodium Succinate Laurylglucoside Crosspolymer vary from one person to another. The points below list potential issues, but most users will not experience them when the ingredient is properly formulated and used as directed.
- Mild skin irritation such as redness or itching, typically in very sensitive individuals
- Temporary eye stinging if the cleanser gets into the eyes
- Dryness or tightness when used in an overly concentrated formula or alongside multiple other surfactants
- Rare allergic contact dermatitis for those with a specific sensitivity to glucosides
If any unwanted reaction occurs stop using the product and seek advice from a qualified healthcare provider.
Comedogenic Rating
Rating: 0 / 5
Sodium Succinate Laurylglucoside Crosspolymer is highly water soluble and designed for rinse-off products, so it does not linger on the skin or leave a film that could block pores. The molecule is large, carries a negative charge in water and lacks oily, waxy moieties that normally drive comedogenicity. Because it quickly lifts away with water, it gives skin a clean finish instead of a residue that could trap sebum or dead cells.
That makes it a good option for people who are prone to acne and breakouts.
Keep in mind that a finished cleanser may still contain heavier emollients or oils that do influence pore clogging potential, so always judge the full formula rather than any single ingredient.
Summary
Sodium Succinate Laurylglucoside Crosspolymer is a plant based surfactant that excels at two jobs: cleansing by removing dirt, oil and product build-up then foam boosting by creating a rich, creamy lather that spreads easily over skin or hair. Crosslinking the original lauryl glucoside makes the polymer larger and more stable, which strengthens foam without sacrificing the gentle feel people expect from sugar cleansers.
It is gaining traction as brands move toward sulfate free, vegan and eco minded formulas, yet it is still less common than classic surfactants like SLS or coco-betaine. Those who have discovered it appreciate its mildness and silky bubbles, so its presence is steadily rising in face and body washes.
Current safety data shows a low risk of irritation, no comedogenic concerns and no known links to hormone disruption. While it is generally considered safe, everyone’s skin is different so performing a quick patch test when you try any new product containing this ingredient is a smart precaution.