Inulin Lauryl Carbamate

Benefits
Softening

What is Inulin Lauryl Carbamate?

Inulin Lauryl Carbamate is a renewable, bio-based non-ionic surfactant produced by esterifying inulin—a fructose-based polysaccharide from chicory root—with lauryl carbamate groups. This modification imparts amphiphilic properties, allowing it to interact effectively at oil-water interfaces. Primarily used in rinse-off cleansers, shampoos, body washes, and leave-on lotions or creams, it enables stable emulsions by reinforcing droplet boundaries and preventing coalescence. As a surfactant, it reduces interfacial tension to promote phase mixing, dispersion of oils, and mild foaming action without stripping the skin. Its polysaccharide backbone provides a thicker, more structured texture compared to traditional surfactants, enhancing product sensory feel while supporting formulation integrity across varying temperatures and storage conditions. Valued in green cosmetics for its biodegradability and mild profile.

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:

Emulsion stabilizer
Improves emulsion robustness by preventing droplet coalescence and phase separation, often by thickening, structuring, or strengthening the interfacial layer.
Surfactant
Lowers surface tension to enable cleansing, emulsifying, and foaming; central to shampoos, body washes, and many emulsions and micellar systems.

Benefits

Delivers softening effects for improved skin texture.

Stabilizes emulsions to maintain product consistency.

Enables gentle cleansing through surface tension reduction.

Who It's For

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

Who May Benefit Who Should Avoid
Individuals preferring natural-derived surfactants in daily cleansers.
People with chicory or inulin allergies.
Users of sensitive skin formulas needing mild stabilization.
Individuals sensitive to lauryl-modified compounds.
Those seeking stable lotions and creams with plant-based ingredients.
Those experiencing reactions during patch testing.

Safety Notes

  • Assessed as low hazard in cosmetic safety evaluations.
  • Displays mild performance in irritation studies from regulatory reviews.

Frequently Asked Questions about Inulin Lauryl Carbamate

What is Inulin Lauryl Carbamate?

A chicory-derived polysaccharide surfactant used to stabilize emulsions and provide mild cleansing in cosmetics.

Is it suitable for sensitive skin?

Yes, its mild nature and low hazard rating make it appropriate for sensitive formulations.

What products commonly contain it?

Found in shampoos, body washes, lotions, and creams for emulsification and texture.