Sodium Stearoyl Glutamate
Also known as Sodium stearoyl glutamate, N-stearoyl-L-glutamic acid sodium salt, Acylglutamate HS-11
“CIR Expert Panel says: safe as used in cosmetics.”
Sodium stearoyl glutamate is an amino acid-derived surfactant and emulsifier assessed by CIR as safe when formulated to be non-irritating (IJT 36, Suppl. 1, 2017, covering acyl glutamates and related amino acid salts). One published case report (Pralong et al., Contact Dermatitis, 2022; PMID 35808936) documents a first confirmed case of allergic contact dermatitis from this ingredient, with cross-reactivity to capryloyl glycine, identifying it as an emerging sensitizer in the amino acid alkyl amide class. Evidence base is limited; no systemic toxicity or carcinogenicity data were identified.
Mild amino acid-derived surfactant with emulsifying and cleansing properties; well tolerated in most users
Derived from plant fatty acids and L-glutamic acid; high biodegradability; COSMOS/ECOCERT-eligible
CIR Expert Panel assessed the acyl glutamate class as safe when formulated to be non-irritating
- · Confirmed skin sensitizer in at least one case report (Pralong et al. 2022); cross-reactive with capryloyl glycine
- · Amino acid alkyl amides represent an emerging class of cosmetic sensitizers; clinical awareness is increasing
CIR Quick Reference Table (12/2017, revised 07/2018) — SODIUM STEAROYL GLUTAMATE row: Finding=SQ, Citation=IJT 36(Suppl. 1):17-56, 2017
“Sodium Stearoyl Glutamate SQ safe for use in cosmetics when formulated to be non-irritating IJT 36(Suppl. 1):17-56, 2017”— QRT-122017revised072018.pdf, p. 123