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Sodium Lauroyl Glutamate

The mildest surfactant based on amino acid — sodium lauroyl glutamate cleanses without disrupting the barrier, is completely natural, and is suitable for the most sensitive skin. The gold standard among "clean" cleansers.

Mild surfactantCleansingAmino acid-basedSensitive skin

✓ Safe

Comedogenic Rating

0/5

Irritation Potential

0/5

What is it?

Sodium Lauroyl Glutamate — an anionic surfactant formed by the condensation of lauryl chloride and sodium salt of glutamic acid. Naturally derived (plant fatty acids + fermented glutamic acid). The pH of cleansers with this surfactant is usually 5.5–6.5 — close to the skin's pH (5.5). It foams less than SLS/SLES but effectively removes sebum and impurities.

The basis for formulas for sensitive, atopic skin and infants. "Clean beauty" standard. Often combined with cocamidopropyl betaine and other mild surfactants for a balance between cleansing and foaming.

Key Benefits

✦

Gentle cleansing without disrupting the barrier

Clinical comparisons show that SLG does not increase TEWL after washing unlike SLS (where the increase is 30–50%). The barrier remains intact even with daily use. Recommended by dermatologists for atopic dermatitis and children's skin.

◈

pH compatibility with the skin's protective flora

Formulas based on SLG have a pH of 5.5–6.5 — optimal for protective microflora. SLS cleansers often have a pH of 7+, which temporarily disrupts the acid mantle and favors pathogens. SLG maintains microbiome balance.

✧

Safety and sustainability

Fully biodegradable, EWG rating: 1 (lowest risk). Does not cause contact allergies unlike CAPB in some consumers. Included in "clean ingredient" lists of most certifications (COSMOS, ECOCERT).

Suitable for

Sensitive skinAtopic skinChildren's skinAll skin types

Main Actions

✓ Gentle cleansing✓ Barrier preservation✓ pH-compatible cleansing

SLG vs SLS: what is the difference?

SLS (sodium lauryl sulfate) — effective, cheap, but aggressive surfactant with a high potential for irritation. SLG (sodium lauroyl glutamate) — more expensive, milder, amino acid-based. In quality 'clean' cleansers, SLS is replaced with SLG, cocoyl glutamate, or cocoyl sarcosinate. If you have sensitive skin — look for SLG at the top of the surfactant list.

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