Ingredient dictionary

Sodium Stearoyl Glutamate

A mild emulsifier and cleansing agent made from a fatty acid and an amino acid. It helps oil and water mix and keeps creamy formulas smooth. It is on the label of 44 products in our library. Checked against our library November 6, 2026.

The catch: none for most people; check the full product list if your skin reacts easily.

What Sodium Stearoyl Glutamate does

Helps oil and water blend evenly
Gently lifts dirt and oil
Adds a smooth, creamy texture
Supports stable, even formulas

Sodium Stearoyl Glutamate is made by joining stearic acid, a common fatty acid, with glutamic acid, an amino acid. The result is then neutralized with sodium, which turns it into a salt that dissolves easily in water. Stearic acid can come from plant or animal fats, depending on the supplier.

Formulators use it as an emulsifier, a helper that keeps oil and water from separating. It also acts as a mild surfactant, so it can lift dirt and oil without a harsh stripping feel. Its texture is usually light and smooth, which is why it shows up in moisturizers, conditioners, sunscreens and shaving products.

Good for

Suits people who want a gentle, creamy product for daily use.

Be careful if

Nothing in particular for most skin types.

Frequently asked questions

Is Sodium Stearoyl Glutamate safe for sensitive skin?

It is generally considered well tolerated, since it is a mild, amino-acid-based surfactant. Like any ingredient, it can still bother some people, so a patch test on a small area is a sensible step if your skin reacts easily.

Is Sodium Stearoyl Glutamate vegan?

It depends on where the stearic acid comes from. That fatty acid can be plant-based or animal-based, so check the product's vegan label or contact the maker to confirm.