LAUROYL/MYRISTOYL METHYL GLUCAMIDE (Lauroyl/myristoyl methyl glucamide)

A sugar-based nonionic surfactant used in cleansing products.

What it is

Lauroyl/myristoyl methyl glucamide is obtained by reacting methylglucamine, a glucose-derived amine, with a mixture of lauroyl and myristoyl chlorides (C12 and C14 fatty acids). CosIng lists it as an emollient, hair- and skin-conditioning, cleansing surfactant and viscosity-controlling ingredient.

Where it is used

Found in shampoos, shower gels, facial cleansers and other cleansing products.

Limits of interpretation

The INCI list shows which ingredients are present, not how much of each. Above 1%, ingredients are listed in descending order of weight; below 1% the order is free.

The label does not show the amount used or the ratio of lauroyl to myristoyl chains.

Functions

Skin conditioning – emollient

Acting as lubricants on the skin surface providing the skin with a soft and smooth appearance.

Hair conditioning

Enhancing the appearance and feel of hair. Leaving the hair easy to comb, supple, soft and shiny and/or imparting volume, lightness, gloss, texture, etc.

Skin conditioning

Maintaining the skin in good condition.

Surfactant – cleansing

Wetting body surfaces, emulsifying or solubilizing oils, and suspending soil (generally, such ingredients contribute to the foaming and lathering properties of cleansing products).

Viscosity controlling

Increasing or decreasing the viscosity (thickness) of cosmetics.

LAUROYL/MYRISTOYL METHYL GLUCAMIDE

What it is

Where it is used

Limits of interpretation

Functions

EU regulation

Products with this ingredient (10)