Quick answer

Versatile emollient and emulsifier in cosmetics; Offers gentle cleansing properties; Helps stabilize and preserve emulsions; Often plant-derived but may also be synthetic Key benefits: Hydration.

Glyceryl Laurate

Updated

Lauric acid, monoester with glycerol / 2,3-dihydroxypropyl laurate

Purpose

A versatile emollient that’s typically plant-derived and also used to cleanse skin, stabilize formulas and help preserve cosmetics.

Rating

GOOD

Category

Emollient, Emulsifier, Cleansing Agent, Preservative

INCI Purpose

SKIN CONDITIONING - EMOLLIENT, SURFACTANT - EMULSIFYING

Benefits

Hydration — Attracts and locks in moisture to keep skin plump and dewy

Alternative Names

At a Glance

Versatile emollient and emulsifier in cosmetics

Offers gentle cleansing properties

Helps stabilize and preserve emulsions

Often plant-derived but may also be synthetic

Article

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.

See: Glycerin, Lauric Acid, Glyceryl Behenate, Glyceryl Dibehanate, Glyceryl Ester, Ester, Glyceryl Stearate, Glyceryl Stearate SE

References