Lauroyl sarcosine is a condensation product of natural fatty acids with sarcosine, which is a natural amino acid found in muscles and other body tissues. Acyl sarcosines are considered modifiŽed fatty acids in which the hydrocarbon chains are interrupted by an amidomethyl group in the alpha position. They are used as hair-conditioning agents and surfactant-cleansing agents in cosmetics, as well as to improve wetting and penetration of topical pharmaceutical products. Acyl sarcosines and their sodium salts are also used in the metal finishing and processing industries for their crystal modifying, anti-rust, and anti-corrosion properties. (L1892, A2881)
Formula
C15H29NO3
Mol. Weight
271.40
CAS #
97-78-9
Form
Liquid
State
White hygroscopic powder; [Sigma-Aldrich MSDS]
See origin →
Functions
Antistatic
Cleansing
Makes oil and water mix so dirt, makeup, and sunscreen can actually be washed away. The reason your face wash foams.
Hair Conditioning
A catch-all term for ingredients that improve how skin looks and feels — softer, smoother, more supple. The workhorse behind most moisturizers.
Cleansing
Makes oil and water mix so dirt, makeup, and sunscreen can actually be washed away. The reason your face wash foams.
Reduces Static
Removes Impurities
Conditions Hair
Cleansing Surfactant
Locks In Moisture
Removes dirt and impurities
Lifts away dirt and oil
Reduces flyaways
Softens and detangles hair
Traditional Use
Synthetic amino acid derivative created in the 20th century as a mild surfactant and conditioning agent for personal care products, designed to provide gentle cleansing properties.
Skin Types
●all-skin-types
Best For
General
Pregnancy & Breastfeeding Safe
Yes
EWG
1
CIR
Safe as used
Pregnancy
Yes
CIR Safety Findings
Not a Sensitizer
medical-approval
all-shades-safe
Concentration Guide
Industry Max
Industry typically uses up to 4.0% in leave-on products (217 products reported). Source: CIR Safety Assessment (CIR Seq 607).