Sodium Myristoyl Glutamate

Sodium Myristoyl Glutamate is an amino acid-derived anionic surfactant made from glutamic acid and myristic acid. It's used in cleansers and shampoos for gentle lather, and in emulsions to stabilize oil-and-water mixtures.
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Ingredient Snapshot

Overview
An amino-acid cleanser that washes gently and stabilizes formulas.
Category
Cleansing, Emulsifying
Type
Surfactant

Ingredient Ratings

Overall Rating

Good

Comedogenic Risk

None

Skin Benefits

It provides mild cleansing that helps avoid a tight, squeaky feel while leaving skin soft, and also aids in creating a smooth, uniform texture in formulas for a comfortable rinse-off.

Uses In Skincare & Cosmetics

It's common in facial cleansers, body washes, and shampoos for low-irritation cleansing, and in lightweight lotions or milky emulsions to keep oils dispersed.

Comedogenic Rating

This ingredient is not typically evaluated for comedogenicity, and no standardized rating is available.

Safety

It's usually well tolerated in daily cleansers. Minor eye or skin irritation can occur if concentrated or left on the skin; sensitive users may wish to patch test. No known specific cosmetic regulatory restrictions apply when used as intended.

Is Sodium Myristoyl Glutamate a Good Ingredient?

It rates Good as an amino acid-based surfactant that provides effective yet generally mild cleansing and also helps stabilize emulsions. While typically gentle, some people may experience irritation at higher concentrations or with minimal rinse-off, which keeps it out of the top tier.

Products with Sodium Myristoyl Glutamate

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