Dibutyl Lauroyl Glutamide

What is Dibutyl Lauroyl Glutamide?

Dibutyl Lauroyl Glutamide is a lab-synthesized ingredient from glutamic acid, featuring a lauroyl chain and two butyl groups forming an amide structure. It belongs to the class of amino acid-derived thickeners commonly used in water-free formulations like deodorant sticks, lip products, and hair styling aids. In products, it works by self-assembling into a three-dimensional fiber network when mixed with oils, transforming liquid oils into soft, creamy gels. This gelation improves product spreadability, prevents separation, and enhances application feel without greasiness. Its conditioning properties stem from the emollient-like behavior, leaving a protective film that aids in moisture retention and surface smoothing on skin or hair shafts. Primarily found in oil-based makeup and personal care items, it supports long-lasting wear and structural integrity.

Comedogenic Rating 0/5 Low risk of clogging pores
EWG Safety Rating 1 View on EWG →

Roles in Formulation

This ingredient serves the following purposes in cosmetic formulations:

Hair conditioning
Improves softness, shine, and manageability by reducing friction and static; commonly achieved with cationic agents, silicones, oils, or conditioning polymers.
Skin conditioning agent
Maintains skin softness, smoothness, and flexibility.
Film former
Creates a continuous film on skin or hair to improve wear, water resistance, transfer resistance, shine, or hold in sunscreens, makeup, and styling products.

Benefits

Enhances texture in oil-based products for easier application and better spreadability.

Provides conditioning effects that soften skin and hair surfaces.

Forms a protective film to improve product hold and water resistance.

Who It's For

A quick guide for who this ingredient may suit (and who should be cautious).

Who May Benefit Who Should Avoid
Users of stick deodorants or solid cosmetics seeking stable, non-dripping formulas.
Those with known sensitivities to amide compounds, though rare.
Individuals with normal to dry skin wanting added smoothness from conditioning agents.
Users preferring water-based products, as it functions mainly in oils.
People using hair products for improved manageability without heaviness.
Individuals seeking minimalistic formulas without synthetic thickeners.

Safety Notes

  • Rated low hazard by environmental working group assessments.
  • Non-comedogenic, unlikely to clog pores in formulations.

Frequently Asked Questions about Dibutyl Lauroyl Glutamide

What does Dibutyl Lauroyl Glutamide do in products?

It gels oils to create solid textures in sticks and balms, while conditioning skin and hair.

Is it safe for sensitive skin?

Low irritation potential based on safety reviews, but patch test new products.

Does it work in watery lotions?

Best in anhydrous oil formulas; less effective in water-based ones.