Sodium Lauryl Glucose Carboxylate

Harm score: 2 (Derivatives of natural substances)

Sodium Lauryl Glucose Carboxylate is a surfactant that is widely used in cosmetic products. Although the name may remind some of a chemistry lab, this substance is basically a sugar, derived mainly from coconut and palm oils and corn. It is an important ingredient in a wide range of products including shampoos, shower gels, facial cleansers, liquid soaps and more. The nicknames "Butterfly Bush" or "Summer Lilac" can be a bit misleading, due to their poetic wording, it may appear that they are herbal extracts or essential oils, but in fact it is an important cosmetic ingredient with much less romantic origins.

Sodium Lauryl Glucose Carboxylate is highly regarded for its cleaning and foaming abilities, which are comparable to those offered by its synthetic counterparts. At the same time, however, it is much gentler on the skin and does not cause the irritation often associated with the use of chemical surfactants. These properties make it a popular choice for formulating sensitive and delicate cosmetics, this is especially true for products designed for sensitive skin, children or those prone to allergies. In addition to its main function as a cleansing and foaming agent, Sodium Lauryl Glucose Carboxylate also has the ability to improve the consistency and stability of products. As such, it is one of the key ingredients that help create the nice, creamy textures we are used to seeing in many cosmetic products.