What Is Undecylenamidopropyl Peg-2 Dimonium Undecylenate?
Undecylenamidopropyl Peg-2 Dimonium Undecylenate is a specialty ingredient created by linking undecylenic acid, a fatty acid derived from castor or other vegetable oils, with a short polyethylene glycol (PEG-2) chain and a quaternary ammonium group. This hybrid structure gives it both oil-friendly and water-friendly parts, allowing it to disperse evenly in lotions, creams and cleansing formulas. It first appeared in cosmetic catalogs in the early 2000s as formulators searched for plant-based alternatives to traditional scalp and skin conditioners. The manufacturing process involves converting natural undecylenic acid into undecylenamide, attaching it to propyl groups, inserting the PEG-2 spacer then quaternizing to produce a mild cationic surfactant.
You will most often spot this ingredient in rinse-off and leave-on products aimed at balancing oil production. Typical placements include clarifying shampoos, scalp masks, lightweight facial moisturizers and combination-skin serums. Its gentle conditioning ability also makes it useful in men’s grooming creams and post-workout body washes where freshness and a clean skin feel are priorities.
Undecylenamidopropyl Peg-2 Dimonium Undecylenate’s Cosmetic Benefits/Uses
This ingredient is valued for one key performance benefit in personal care formulas.
As an anti-seborrheic agent it helps regulate excess sebum on skin and scalp surfaces. By binding to oily residues then rinsing away easily, it leaves the skin feeling clean yet comfortable. In hair care it supports a flake-free appearance and prolongs that freshly washed look, while in facial products it can reduce midday shine without over-drying sensitive areas.
Who Can Use Undecylenamidopropyl Peg-2 Dimonium Undecylenate
Because this ingredient targets excess oil it is especially helpful for people with oily or combination skin and scalp types. Normal skin usually tolerates it well too since it is milder than traditional clarifying agents. Very dry or highly sensitized skin might find it a little too oil lifting if used daily so occasional or spot use is recommended in those cases.
The raw materials used are plant sourced and no animal derivatives are introduced during manufacturing which makes the ingredient suitable for both vegans and vegetarians.
No data suggest that topical use poses a specific risk in pregnancy or while breastfeeding when used as directed. This information is not medical advice and anyone who is pregnant or nursing should check with a healthcare professional before starting any new product.
Undecylenamidopropyl Peg-2 Dimonium Undecylenate does not increase photosensitivity therefore routine sun exposure precautions remain unchanged. It is also odor neutral and compatible with most leave-on and rinse-off formats so users can incorporate it with minimal lifestyle adjustments.
Potential Side Effects/Adverse Reactions
Reactions to topical Undecylenamidopropyl Peg-2 Dimonium Undecylenate differ from person to person. The following points outline potential side effects that are possible yet unlikely for the average user when a product is formulated and used correctly.
- Mild skin dryness
- Temporary scalp tightness after prolonged contact
- Redness or irritation in individuals with a known sensitivity to quaternary ammonium compounds
- Eye stinging if the product accidentally drips into the eyes during application or rinsing
If any discomfort or irritation occurs discontinue use and seek advice from a qualified medical professional.
Comedogenic Rating
Rating: 1 out of 5
Undecylenamidopropyl Peg-2 Dimonium Undecylenate is largely water compatible and designed to lift away excess oil rather than sit on the skin. Its molecule is too bulky and too polar to nestle into pores where comedogenic ingredients usually build up, so the risk of clogging is very low. Because it is used in small percentages and usually found in rinse-off or lightweight leave-on formulas, residue left behind is minimal.
This makes the ingredient generally suitable for acne-prone or breakout-prone skin.
Formulation still matters: if the surrounding product is heavy in rich oils or waxes overall pore-clogging potential will rise even though this single ingredient remains low risk.
Summary
Undecylenamidopropyl Peg-2 Dimonium Undecylenate serves mainly as an anti-seborrheic helper that tempers extra sebum on the skin or scalp. Its dual oil-loving and water-loving structure lets it grab oily debris then rinse or wipe away cleanly leaving a fresh light feel. The mild cationic charge adds a soft conditioning touch so hair and skin do not feel stripped.
While not the hottest buzzword in beauty it enjoys a steady presence in modern clarifying shampoos combination-skin creams and sporty body washes because it balances cleansing with comfort. Its plant-derived backbone and low irritation profile keep it relevant for brands looking to update or green up their formulas.
Current data show it is safe for topical use at normal cosmetic levels with only rare reports of sensitivity. As with any new skincare or haircare product it is smart to patch test first to confirm personal compatibility.