Get a Free 5ml Mini Now Free 5ml Mini With Every Order of The Mantle

GLYCERYL LAURATE SE.

Essential / SURFACTANT - EMULSIFYING

A versatile lipid-derived monoester, Glyceryl Laurate SE functions as a crucial co-emulsifier to stabilize formulations, while also acting as an emollient to enhance skin hydration and texture. Its broad-spectrum antimicrobial properties contribute significantly to both product preservation and overall skin health.

Co-emulsifier Emollient Anti-microbial agent Preservative booster Thickening agent Refatting agent Skin conditioning agent Viscosity stabilizer Penetration enhancer

Science

GLYCERYL LAURATE SE operates as a multi-functional ingredient, primarily serving as a co-emulsifier to facilitate the stable dispersion of immiscible oil and water phases, which is vital for product integrity. On the skin, it acts as an emollient and skin conditioning agent, supporting the skin's barrier function by replenishing natural moisture levels and forming a protective layer that minimizes water loss, thereby enhancing skin texture and suppleness. Additionally, it exhibits potent antimicrobial activity, effectively inhibiting the growth of various microorganisms including bacteria (such as odor-producing and acne-causing strains), viruses, and fungi, and functions as a preservative booster. It also promotes the deeper penetration of other active ingredients into the skin, enhancing their efficacy.


Research

High confidence
Effective range 0.0005–5%
Optimal

0.001%


Transparency

Not commonly dusted

GLYCERYL LAURATE SE is valued for its genuine multifunctional properties across its scientifically validated use concentrations. Its diverse benefits as an emulsifier, emollient, and antimicrobial are observed within effective ranges, well below its maximum safe concentration of 12%. Consequently, its inclusion at sub-therapeutic 'dusting' levels solely for label claims is not typical or necessary to achieve its recognized effects.


The Formula

Solubility
Oil
Optimal pH 4 – 8
0 7 14

Stability

This ingredient is soluble in fats and oils, exhibiting limited dispersibility in water. Its bacteriostatic efficacy is maintained within a pH range of 4 to 8. Formulators should avoid exposing it to severe heating for prolonged durations to preserve its functional integrity.

Synergies

  • Enhances the transdermal penetration of other active ingredients, potentially increasing their efficacy.

Safety

CIR Status
Safe as used
Max tested
12%
Sensitization risk Low

The Cosmetic Ingredient Review (CIR) Expert Panel has determined GLYCERYL LAURATE SE to be safe for use in cosmetics, with reported concentrations reaching up to 12%. It is generally regarded as non-toxic with a low incidence of side effects. While undiluted forms or concentrations significantly exceeding typical cosmetic levels have shown minor skin irritation or moderate erythema in patch tests, it is not considered irritating at concentrations commonly used in formulations. As a self-emulsifying (SE) grade, it contains sodium and/or potassium salts of the corresponding fatty acid.


Your Skin

Yes Normal
Yes Dry
Yes Oily
Yes Sensitive
Irritancy Low
Comedogenicity Low

Our Assessment

Essential

GLYCERYL LAURATE SE is an essential, multi-functional ingredient providing critical formulation stability, emollient benefits, broad-spectrum antimicrobial action, and enhanced active ingredient penetration, making it highly valuable for diverse and effective skincare applications.


Related

Finding similar ingredients…