What it is
Sodium Stearoyl Glutamate is an amino-acid-derived emulsifier that helps water and oil mix and stay mixed. Chemically it is the sodium salt of stearoyl glutamic acid, with the official name sodium hydrogen N-(1-oxooctadecyl)-L-glutamate. Beyond emulsifying, it can also act as a mild surfactant and cleansing and skin-conditioning agent, and it is often chosen for gentle, natural-positioned formulations. It remains stable in slightly acidic conditions compatible with skin's natural pH.
Safety & warnings
Sodium Stearoyl Glutamate is widely described as mild and is often characterized as hypoallergenic. Its amino-acid backbone resembles components of the skin's own natural moisturizing factor, which is thought to make it gentler than many harsher surfactants, and it is commonly used in products aimed at sensitive, dry or baby skin. Reported irritation is low when it is used at recommended levels, though, as with any surfactant or emulsifier, individual sensitivity is still possible.
Origin & sourcing
It is a semi-synthetic ingredient produced by coupling L-glutamic acid, an amino acid, with stearic acid (a fatty acid commonly of vegetable origin) and neutralizing the result to its sodium salt. Because its building blocks can be plant-derived, it is frequently described as a natural-leaning, plant-based emulsifier.
Questions everyone asks
Is sodium stearoyl glutamate natural?
It is made by combining glutamic acid (an amino acid) with stearic acid, which can be plant-derived, so it is often described as a natural-leaning, amino-acid-based emulsifier.
What does it do in sunscreen?
It is an emulsifier that keeps the oil and water phases blended together so the formula stays stable and spreads evenly; it does not provide UV protection.
Is it gentle on sensitive skin?
It is generally considered mild and is often described as hypoallergenic, and it is frequently used in products formulated for sensitive and baby skin.