Sodium stearoyl glutamate represents the intersection of natural amino acids and modern surfactant chemistry. Its roots stretch back to when scientists first explored amino acid derivatives in skin care, searching for alternatives to harsher soaps. In the mid-to-late 20th century, personal care formulations shifted toward milder, more skin-compatible emulsifiers, and sodium stearoyl glutamate emerged as one of the answers. The glutamic acid backbone, naturally occurring in the human body, combines with the fatty acid stearic acid to produce a molecule both familiar and gentle for human tissue. Chemists in Japan and Europe began using it in skin cleansers and creams, and its reputation grew as consumers demanded safer, plant-based additives. Today, it's part of a standard toolkit for formulators who want products that deliver on performance without harsh effects.
Sodium stearoyl glutamate serves as a gentle anionic surfactant, prized for its function as an emulsifier and mild cleanser in personal care. It works in creams, lotions, facial cleansers, shampoos, and even toothpaste. The ingredient's ability to stabilize oil-in-water emulsions without irritating the skin stands out among surfactants. Most sodium stearoyl glutamate available today is derived from plant-based sources, and manufacturers tout its vegan and non-GMO claims. Choosing the right grade depends on the end use—cosmetic chemists look for powder or granule forms that dissolve rapidly in water or heated oil phases.
This compound appears as a white to slightly off-white powder or fine granule. It gives off a faint, fatty scent and dissolves well in warm water, which suits hot process emulsification. The molecule includes a long-chain fatty acid bound to an amino acid backbone, which lets it lower water’s surface tension and mix with both oils and water. Its melting point sits above normal room temperature, so it's stable under typical processing. Standard pH in a 10% solution falls between 5 and 6, making it compatible with the mildly acidic environment of skin and most personal care bases.
Cosmetic and food-grade sodium stearoyl glutamate follows international standards. Producers specify particle size, purity (often over 95%), moisture content (commonly under 5%), and residue on ignition. Labeling requires clear indication for those with sensitivities, and products often state origin—whether derived from palm or coconut oil and fermented from plant-based glutamic acid. Regulatory agencies such as the EU’s ECHA, the US FDA, and Japan’s Ministry of Health recognize sodium stearoyl glutamate as a safe cosmetic additive at low concentrations, with few restrictions beyond basic purity and trace contaminant thresholds. Certifications for vegan, halal, or kosher status add further consumer confidence.
Manufacturing sodium stearoyl glutamate involves reacting natural glutamic acid—usually obtained by fermenting sugar cane or beets—with stearic acid, which is either vegetable-sourced or derived from animal fat. First, glutamic acid undergoes acid-esterification with stearic acid, forming the stearoyl glutamic acid intermediate. Afterward, neutralization happens using sodium hydroxide, generating the final sodium stearoyl glutamate product. The process emphasizes gentle conditions to avoid side product formation, with tight control over pH and temperature. Vakum drying and sometimes milling produces a finished product suitable for diverse formulation needs.
Sodium stearoyl glutamate's primary role stays stable, so most chemists use the base molecule without further chemical modification. Under strong acid or alkali, it can hydrolyze, cleaving back into glutamic acid and stearic acid. Most interesting is its mild chelating ability—it can help stabilize sensitive actives in a cosmetic formula by binding out disruptive metal ions. Research in green chemistry looks at tweaking the fatty acid chain or the amino acid side groups, aiming to develop derivatives with enhanced solubility or even lower irritation potential. This research keeps evolving as consumer demand for even cleaner ingredients increases.
You might find sodium stearoyl glutamate under several alternate names. The International Nomenclature of Cosmetic Ingredients (INCI) code labels it simply as "Sodium Stearoyl Glutamate." Some suppliers use trade names or abbreviations like SSG, Stearyl Glutamate Sodium, or Glutamic acid, N-stearoyl-, monosodium salt. Product branding sometimes highlights eco-friendly credentials, with terms like “Green Glutamate Emulsifier.” Careful reading of ingredient lists ensures that consumers and formulators know exactly what they’re getting, reducing surprises for those with allergies or preferences about animal- or plant-derived content.
Global authorities consider sodium stearoyl glutamate a low-risk ingredient, making it a mild and safe alternative for people prone to irritation from traditional surfactants. Repeated-skin patch testing, including studies published in toxicology journals, point to minimal sensitization or irritation. Still, cutting corners never works; manufacturers follow GMP protocols to prevent contamination (especially with potential allergens or heavy metals). Workers handling bulk forms wear standard PPE due to dust inhalation risks, and transportation labels warn against improper mixing with strong acids or oxidizers. Audits, batch testing, and allergen management go hand in hand with regulatory filings to keep end-users and workers safe.
Sodium stearoyl glutamate works in a wide range of personal care products—from lightweight face lotions to rich body butters, sulfate-free shampoos, and even kids’ cleansers. It also appears in some specialty foods and nutraceuticals where clean-label emulsifiers matter. Formulators use it to replace harsher or animal-derived surfactants, answering a demand for vegan, gentle ingredients. In my own time working with artisan skincare entrepreneurs, sodium stearoyl glutamate pops up as an obvious choice to boost spreadability or improve cream texture without causing breakouts. Even in anti-aging formulations packed with actives, sodium stearoyl glutamate helps keep ingredients stable and pleasant on the skin.
Recent years brought more curiosity about amino acid-based surfactants, including sodium stearoyl glutamate. Researchers want to understand how it preserves barrier function, influences microbiome health, or improves solubility for next-generation actives. Papers in journals such as the International Journal of Cosmetic Science highlight its synergy with botanical oils and peptides—sometimes unlocking new product claims. Industry R&D teams keep testing modifications that tap into trademarked versions, such as micro-pellets or sting-free variants for baby care. The eco-impact remains a regular theme: more suppliers dig into gap-closings on carbon footprint and renewable sourcing methods.
Plenty of toxicology testing supports the mildness of sodium stearoyl glutamate. Standard OECD 404 and 406 studies (skin irritation and sensitization) show no meaningful reactions at the small concentrations found in cosmetics. Ingestion studies, even at higher doses, report low acute toxicity. Long-term oral or dermal use brought up no notable risks, though some rare cases of acneiform eruptions surfaced where excessive concentrations got used—reminding us moderation remains the goal. Regulators keep a close eye on residual reactants and byproducts; routine testing for nitrosamines, dioxane, and metal contaminants stays mandatory in the biggest markets.
Looking ahead, sodium stearoyl glutamate has a secure spot in green chemistry’s future. As consumer scrutiny on sustainability and ingredient transparency grows, its plant-based sourcing, mild profile, and multiple certifications tick plenty of boxes. My conversations with startup formulators show they prefer ingredients that support both performance and marketing stories—and sodium stearoyl glutamate doesn’t force a tradeoff between safety, sensory feel, or clean-label claims. Next-gen versions may use recycled biowaste as feedstock or add prebiotic components. Research heads toward further reducing environmental impact throughout its life cycle, making this once-niche emulsifier a mainstay of responsible product development.
Walking through the grocer's aisles or scanning the back of a shampoo bottle, it’s easy to stumble across ingredients that look more like lab assignments than anything that belongs on skin or in dinner. Sodium stearoyl glutamate often falls into that category. Yet, like so many things, the name tells only half the story. Anyone who’s spent a bit of time mixing oil and water for salad dressing has watched them separate seconds later. Sodium stearoyl glutamate keeps oil and water together, so you actually eat, drink, or wear what’s promised on the package.
This ingredient is a mouthful, but it comes from things most folks recognize. Stearic acid, found in vegetable oils, and glutamic acid, a common amino acid, come together to make it. The blend helps keep products smooth and stable. Think of all those milky lotions, rich creams, and whipped spreads. Sodium stearoyl glutamate is often the quiet helper that keeps them from separating or turning gritty.
A single look at the texture of a well-made moisturizer or the creaminess of a store-bought hummus, and you’ll see its handiwork. Beauty formulators appreciate it not just for smoothing textures, but for how gentle it is—even for sensitive skin. I’ve had enough bottles of cheap conditioner that left my scalp itchy. Products using gentler emulsifiers like this one rarely give me the same grief.
Safety ends up being the first question for anything new in the cabinet or fridge. Research and regulatory agencies—including the European Commission and the US Food and Drug Administration—have looked at the ingredient and found it safe for its approved uses. It doesn’t linger in the body and shows low risk of triggering reactions. My own experience, and that of anyone I know who’s tried carefully formulated skin care, backs this up. It’s not something that clogs pores or acts as a known allergen. Companies like it because it goes through strict quality checks, and consumers rarely complain about skin problems from it.
It’s easy to overlook what helps mix oil and water, but those who deal with dry skin, allergies, or food sensitivities know the struggle of finding a product that feels good and doesn’t bite back. Formulators want something that lets them leave out harsher ingredients without losing that smooth texture people expect. Sodium stearoyl glutamate often steps up there—offering a clean, simple solution.
Some folks try to skip “chemical-sounding” ingredients, but safety comes from more than just a familiar-sounding name. In reality, this glutamate is cleaner than some natural extracts, which can contain pesticides or allergens. To me, knowing where and how something’s made means more than whether it fits into a trendy label. Transparency around sourcing and manufacturing gives people confidence, so brands that give proper background (including third-party testing and batch records) earn trust.
Not every product needs sodium stearoyl glutamate, but for those looking for smoother, safer, and more stable creams, foods, or cleansers, it can offer a solid choice. I’ve watched companies swap out harsher emulsifiers and keep their formulas simpler without losing quality. Fewer preservatives might even mean fewer potential irritants. The real win for consumers comes from clear labeling and honest answers about why certain ingredients are used. As awareness grows, so does the push for greener processes and better raw materials. That keeps the pressure on to find not just what works, but what works best for people and the planet.
Sensitive skin throws up roadblocks at the smallest trigger, from fragrances to preservatives. A growing list of shoppers squint at ingredient lists, looking for anything that could spark redness or itch. Sodium stearoyl glutamate shows up in a lot of today’s creams, cleansers, and hair products. Some folks wonder if it’s just another name for trouble when your skin reacts to the world.
This is an emulsifier made from the combination of the amino acid glutamic acid and the fatty acid stearic acid. Both come from natural sources—coconut oil, palm oil, and even human skin, where forms of fatty acids keep the barrier strong. It’s earned a spot on “green chemistry” lists in recent years. INCI Decoder, EWG, Paula’s Choice, and the European Commission all classify sodium stearoyl glutamate as safe and non-irritating at the concentrations used in finished products.
Dermatologists tend to see a lot of patients worried about product reactions. The reality is, true allergic reactions to sodium stearoyl glutamate are rare—confirmed by data pulled from both patch testing studies and 2022’s contact dermatitis reviews. Product safety organizations in Europe and the US back this up.
In my personal experience working with people whose skin flares up at the drop of a hat, I’ve noticed that reactions almost always come from added fragrance, harsh surfactants, or high concentrations of preservatives. Sodium stearoyl glutamate has nearly always blended quietly into formulas without incident. The handful of red, hot rashes I’ve seen involved other ingredients entirely, like methylisothiazolinone or cocamidopropyl betaine.
Social media warns about almost everything these days, and even unfamiliar names can be intimidating. The “stearoyl” part worries some, because certain fatty acids can cause breakouts if your skin leans oily or acne-prone. Research from the Journal of the American Academy of Dermatology and other reputable sources, though, points out no comedogenic risk from sodium stearoyl glutamate in regular rinse-off and leave-on products.
Sensitive skin sometimes reacts unpredictably, so every new ingredient brings uncertainty. Personal history matters more than any one label; some folks just know their skin flips out at almost anything. Even safe, mild ingredients won’t convince everyone.
Anyone feeling cautious about new products can try a patch test. Dab a bit along the jawline or inner arm, then wait 24 hours. No redness or itching? That’s a green light, at least for that ingredient at that concentration.
Anyone dealing with breakouts or allergic reactions should work with a board-certified dermatologist. They pull from years of evidence—and a solid understanding of what truly triggers issues for sensitive types.
The world is never short on opinions, but facts and a close look at your own history tend to provide much better answers.
Plenty of hypoallergenic and fragrance-free lines use sodium stearoyl glutamate in their moisturizers, toners, and cleansers. These include widely trusted brands found in dermatology clinics. Ingredient transparency makes a difference, so consumers should keep reading those labels and checking brand reputations—especially for new releases.
Sodium stearoyl glutamate generally passes scrutiny for even those who break out easily, but any new product deserves a cautious approach if your skin feels sensitive or reactive.
Sodium stearoyl glutamate pops up often in ingredient lists on lotions, shampoos, and cleansers. Seeing it beside words like coconut oil and shea butter can make it easy to think it’s just as close to nature. The name itself sounds much more “lab-coat” than the rest, which pushes people to ask if this is something that grows, or something that gets cooked up in factories.
The truth sits in the chemistry. Sodium stearoyl glutamate comes from two main sources: stearic acid and glutamic acid. Stearic acid shows up naturally in vegetable oils and animal fats, while glutamic acid is an amino acid found in a lot of plant and animal proteins. Both of those blocks exist in nature. But no one finds sodium stearoyl glutamate directly in a plant or a slab of butter. It takes a chemist in a lab to bring the two together with sodium and turn them into the emulsifier we know today.
Some shoppers may feel wary about a chemical process stepping in, even when that process uses ingredients originally from plants or animals. In my own home, I have watched more people start to read the backs of bottles, unsettled by how hard it is to tell what’s actually natural and what is just made from natural things. This line gets pushed all over the place by different marketing teams. Some brands call sodium stearoyl glutamate “naturally-derived,” hoping it sounds cleaner, more honest, and safe. The term “natural” in personal care law carries very little weight, especially in countries like the United States where labeling rules do not restrict how the word gets used.
Whether you call it natural or synthetic, safety matters more than marketing. Research published over the past few years, including reviews by organizations such as the CIR (Cosmetic Ingredient Review), show sodium stearoyl glutamate doesn’t set off irritation for most people. It’s used because it helps oily and watery stuff work together. Most would struggle to get a creamy, pleasant moisturizer without this type of emulsifier. I have seen people with sensitive skin check for added fragrances, parabens, and harsh preservatives, but almost never for sodium stearoyl glutamate — that’s because complaints about redness or itching don’t usually link back to this ingredient.
Labeling a product as natural drives sales, but it muddles how people understand ingredients. Some big bodies in the food and beauty worlds try to set stricter guidelines, but companies skirt the lines with words like “naturally-derived,” which means little to folks trying to avoid too much processing. In my own experience, comparing shopping in specialty health stores versus big-box retailers always shows a huge swing in how companies position their ingredient lists. Companies in the clean beauty world have pushed hard to keep “natural” claims attached, but most scientists argue that it’s the process, not the origin, that decides how “natural” things are.
Better transparency helps shoppers make up their own minds. If brands explain not just what they use, but how they use it, people can decide for themselves if that feels “natural” enough. Certification systems like Ecocert and COSMOS set bars for what counts as “natural” or “organic,” though meeting their standards means companies have to open up about where every ingredient comes from and how it’s processed. I encourage everyone who cares about the natural label to look for products that meet real certification standards, instead of trusting label claims. Asking questions, reading reviews, and taking the time to learn what each compound does serves people far more than just chasing that elusive word “natural.”
I keep a closer eye on ingredients in my skincare these days, and I notice a lot of folks do the same. You see a scientific name like “Sodium Stearoyl Glutamate,” and you wonder, what does that actually do to my skin? This ingredient shows up in more products lately because it helps oil and water mix together for smoother lotions or creams. It’s not just a background player in the formula; it lands directly on your skin.
This compound comes from the combination of a natural fatty acid (stearic acid) and an amino acid (glutamic acid). It’s used to thicken and stabilize gels, creams, and cleansers. It’s considered safe by many safety boards, including the Cosmetic Ingredient Review (CIR) panel in the US and the European Commission. But people still report skin irritation from all kinds of personal care ingredients, even those that look harmless according to lab tests.
Researchers and dermatologists agree: allergies and sensitivities don’t always match what’s written in the textbooks. For example, I’ve reacted to so-called “gentle” cleansers in the past, even though the label said dermatologically tested. Reports exist of Sodium Stearoyl Glutamate causing stinging or redness, especially for those dealing with eczema or broken skin. The molecule’s structure looks pretty mild, and it breaks down into skin-friendly parts, but bodies are unique. No company can promise zero reactions.
Scientific reviews run patch tests on healthy volunteers — a standard industry tool. One patch test in the International Journal of Toxicology saw little to no irritation at standard use levels. Contact allergies seem rare, but a handful of case reports have documented reactions, especially in people already sensitive to surfactants or emulsifiers. One Italian survey published in “Contact Dermatitis” watched for reactions in patients with chronic eczema and found occasional mild redness.
From my time browsing ingredient lists, knowledge is the most practical tool. I always advise starting with a patch test. Apply the new lotion behind your ear or on your wrist before using it on your face or body. This tip comes straight from dermatologists treating irritation-prone patients. If redness or stinging flares up, stop immediately and check with a doctor. Children, folks with weakened skin barriers, and people managing allergies should be extra cautious. Sometimes, a problem isn’t the main ingredient but an interaction with fragrance, preservatives, or even the way a product’s stored.
Trusted brands stick with transparent labeling and host ingredient information online for those who ask. Regulators set maximum allowed concentrations; most use stearoyl glutamate far below amounts likely to cause issues. Educated formulators listen to dermatologists and dial back on unnecessary additives for sensitive skin lines. Honest communication and quick feedback channels let customers report issues and learn about reformulations or product recalls.
As someone who’s read hundreds of product labels and seen the irritation stories share space with success stories, I put a premium on straightforward information. Sodium Stearoyl Glutamate works safely for the vast majority, but no ingredient counts as entirely risk-free. Risk differs based on your personal sensitivities. Choose products tailored to your needs, check the ingredient lists, and don’t be afraid to ask for details from a company—your skin’s health deserves it.
Sodium stearoyl glutamate pops up often in ingredient lists on cleansing oils, shampoos, lotions, and even toothpaste. It works as an emulsifier and surfactant, helping oil and water blend together for a smoother texture. People living a vegan lifestyle or choosing cruelty-free products usually give ingredient lists more than a quick glance. Some terms cause confusion, and sodium stearoyl glutamate is one of them. The debate comes from the “stearoyl” part of the name, which points toward possible animal origins. Stearic acid can come from animal fats or vegetable sources.
Manufacturers have a choice about where to source stearic acid. Palm oil, soybean oil, and other vegetable oils give us plant-based stearic acid. Tallow from slaughtered cows has the same fatty acid. I remember reading early vegan forums from back in the 2000s—this question came up as brands became more transparent about their sourcing. Companies that use animal-derived ingredients rarely announce it, as many shoppers avoid animal fat for ethical or religious reasons. On the other hand, many larger ingredient suppliers switched to plant-based stearic acid, as demand rose for vegan-friendly cosmetics and food products. It saves them extra steps in regional labeling regulations and opens up access to a growing market.
Some companies confirm “plant-based” sources on labels or in their FAQs. Others require customers to reach out, and customer service teams don’t always know the answer. I’ve had to dig through ingredient disclosure emails with phrases like “derived from sustainable palm oil” popping up, offering some peace of mind. Reliable brands have updated websites and transparency statements about avoiding animal sources for these multi-purpose emulsifiers. But not every brand stays consistent, especially in lower-cost products or international selections.
Cruelty-free means a company chooses not to test on animals at any stage of production. The United States doesn’t have a strict legal definition, so organizations like Leaping Bunny and PETA verify cruelty-free claims. A product can contain sodium stearoyl glutamate that comes from vegetables and still not qualify as cruelty-free if testing took place. I look for certified logos, since they simplify shopping. Products made in the European Union follow stricter testing bans, so I tend to trust EU-based brands a little more on this front.
If a product doesn't list the source, it’s worth sending a quick email to customer service. Asking for a statement on stearic acid’s origin puts helpful pressure on brands to be transparent. Some smaller brands even reformulate after hearing from enough shoppers. If avoiding all animal by-products is the goal, double-check certifications and ingredient sourcing, and pay attention to new product launches, as formulations sometimes change without warning.
Better labeling would solve most confusion. Regulators in some regions have started to require companies to declare animal-based additives or provide certifications, but loopholes remain. Large suppliers of cosmetic ingredients have improved their documentation in response to demand from vegan customers. More transparency could push the industry further, making it easier for those committed to cruelty-free, plant-based lifestyles. Until then, it pays to ask questions, support transparent companies, and share information within the vegan and cruelty-free community.
| Names | |
| Preferred IUPAC name | Sodium 2-[(1-oxooctadecan-2-yl)amino]pentanedioate |
| Other names |
Sodium Stearoyl Glutamate Glutamic acid, N-stearoyl-, sodium salt Sodium N-stearoyl-L-glutamate Sodium Stearoyl Glutamate (INCI) Sodium Stearoylglutamate |
| Pronunciation | /ˈsoʊdiəm stɪˈɛərɔɪl ɡluːˈteɪmət/ |
| Identifiers | |
| CAS Number | 38517-23-6 |
| Beilstein Reference | 3858733 |
| ChEBI | CHEBI:139783 |
| ChEMBL | CHEMBL580872 |
| ChemSpider | 26836277 |
| DrugBank | DB11262 |
| ECHA InfoCard | 40ce19c1-4e57-4801-bf25-3980a520c2d8 |
| EC Number | EC 292-497-7 |
| Gmelin Reference | 93380 |
| KEGG | C15662 |
| MeSH | D019296 |
| PubChem CID | 16219490 |
| RTECS number | WMV31235O2 |
| UNII | 1U80C1895Y |
| UN number | UN3261 |
| Properties | |
| Chemical formula | C25H48NNaO5 |
| Molar mass | 591.77 g/mol |
| Appearance | White to off-white powder |
| Odor | Characteristic |
| Density | 0.2-0.3 g/cm³ |
| Solubility in water | insoluble |
| log P | -7.2 |
| Vapor pressure | Negligible |
| Acidity (pKa) | pKa ~ 4.3 |
| Basicity (pKb) | pKb: 5.48 |
| Magnetic susceptibility (χ) | -45.0e-6 cm³/mol |
| Refractive index (nD) | 1.420 |
| Viscosity | Viscous liquid |
| Dipole moment | 2.96 D |
| Thermochemistry | |
| Std molar entropy (S⦵298) | 548.7 J·mol⁻¹·K⁻¹ |
| Pharmacology | |
| ATC code | A16AX |
| Hazards | |
| Main hazards | May cause slight irritation to eyes, skin, and respiratory system. |
| GHS labelling | Not classified as hazardous according to GHS |
| Pictograms | GHS07 |
| Signal word | Warning |
| Hazard statements | May cause slight eye irritation. |
| Precautionary statements | IF IN EYES: Rinse cautiously with water for several minutes. Remove contact lenses, if present and easy to do. Continue rinsing. If eye irritation persists: Get medical advice/attention. |
| NFPA 704 (fire diamond) | NFPA 704: 1-1-0 |
| Flash point | > 220 °C |
| LD50 (median dose) | > 2000 mg/kg (rat, oral) |
| NIOSH | Not listed |
| PEL (Permissible) | Not established |
| REL (Recommended) | 0.5-2% |
| Related compounds | |
| Related compounds |
Lauroyl Glutamate Palmitoyl Glutamate Myristoyl Glutamate Sodium Cocoyl Glutamate Stearic Acid Glutamic Acid |
