Sodium Lauroyl Methylaminopropionate

What is Sodium Lauroyl Methylaminopropionate?

Sodium Lauroyl Methylaminopropionate is a synthetic anionic surfactant produced by combining lauroyl groups from fatty acids, typically sourced from coconut or palm kernel oil, with N-methylaminopropionic acid, an amino acid derivative. This creates a mild, amphoteric-like compound with a negatively charged head group that interacts effectively with water and oils. In cosmetics, it appears mainly in rinse-off products like shampoos, body washes, facial cleansers, and bubble baths. It works by lowering the surface tension of liquids, enabling the formation of micelles that encapsulate dirt, sebum, and residues for easy rinsing. Its structure provides good foaming properties and stability across a range of pH levels, contributing to creamy lather without stripping natural oils from skin or hair. This makes it suitable for formulations targeting everyday hygiene needs.

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:

Surfactant
Lowers surface tension to enable cleansing, emulsifying, and foaming; central to shampoos, body washes, and many emulsions and micellar systems.
Cleansing agent
Removes dirt, oil, and impurities by lowering surface tension and forming micelles, enabling soils to be lifted and rinsed away from skin, hair, or teeth.
Emulsifying agent
Enables stable mixing of oil and water phases by forming an interfacial film, helping create lotions, creams, and cleansers with consistent texture.

Benefits

Provides gentle cleansing action that lifts impurities without harshness.

Supports stable emulsions in cleansers for smooth texture.

Delivers good foaming for effective yet mild washing experience.

Who It's For

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

Who May Benefit Who Should Avoid
People with sensitive skin seeking non-drying cleansers.
Those with known allergies to coconut-derived ingredients.
Individuals with dry or reactive skin preferring mild surfactants.
People experiencing irritation from amino acid-based surfactants.
Users of frequent-wash products like daily shampoos or body washes.
Individuals preferring completely soap-free or minimalist routines.

Safety Notes

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

Frequently Asked Questions about Sodium Lauroyl Methylaminopropionate

What products contain Sodium Lauroyl Methylaminopropionate?

Commonly found in shampoos, body washes, and facial cleansers for its foaming and cleansing abilities.

Is it suitable for sensitive skin?

Its mild nature makes it a good option for sensitive skin in rinse-off formulations.

Does it cause breakouts?

It has a low comedogenic rating, making it unlikely to contribute to clogged pores.