Exfoliants

Glyceryl Laurate

Also known as: Glycerin, Lauric Acid, Glyceryl Behenate, Glyceryl Dibehanate, Glyceryl Ester, Ester, Glyceryl Stearate, Glyceryl Stearate SE

Versatile emollient and emulsifier in cosmetics | Offers gentle cleansing properties

Addresses

Dehydration

What Is Glyceryl Laurate?

Glyceryl laurate is the single ester made from glycerin and the coconut-derived fatty acid lauric acid. It may be plant-derived or lab-made. In cosmetics, glyceryl laurate has emollient, emulsifying, and mild preservative properties. It also has cleansing properties for skin, but is chemically considered an amphoteric surfactant, which puts it among the gentlest options. This versatile ingredient is soluble in oils and solvents, making it a useful addition to many types of cosmetics. Usage levels of glyceryl laurate in cosmetics is typically 0.1–5%, depending on formulary needs. Amounts from 20–100% have been shown to provoke skin irritation; however, these amounts are well above what’s used in cosmetics.

Benefits for Your Skin

Clinical Evidence & References

Published Research

  • Surgical Infections, October 2015, pages 538–542 [https://doi.org/10.1089/sur.2014.162]
  • International Journal of Toxicology, May 2004, pages 1–94 [https://journals.sagepub.com/doi/10.1080/10915810490422114]

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