Is Lauryl Glucoside Banned? EU vs US Status, Risks & Where It Hides
TL;DR: Lauryl Glucoside is allowed in the EU but allowed in the US (surfactant).
INCI name LAURYL GLUCOSIDE. Also called Lauryl Glucoside. CAS 110615-47-9.
Other names: APG C12
Is Lauryl Glucoside banned in the EU?
| EU status | Allowed |
|---|---|
| US status | Allowed |
| Risk level | low |
| Where it shows up | Acure Seriously Soothing Cleansing Milk, Dr. Bronner's Pure-Castile Soap blends, Nature's Baby Organics Shampoo |
| CAS number | 110615-47-9 |
What is Lauryl Glucoside?
Lauryl glucoside is a non-ionic surfactant from the alkyl polyglucoside family, made from glucose and lauryl alcohol (C12, often from coconut oil). It has superior foaming compared to decyl glucoside and is slightly stronger as a cleanser.
Why is Lauryl Glucoside used in personal-care products?
Used as a primary or co-surfactant in natural, eco-certified, and sensitive-skin formulations. Provides good foam and cleansing without disrupting the skin barrier significantly.
Is Lauryl Glucoside dangerous? Documented risks
Lauryl glucoside has an excellent safety profile and is approved for certified organic cosmetics. Very low irritation and sensitization rates are documented. No carcinogenic or endocrine-disrupting effects have been identified. It is fully biodegradable.
Products that may contain Lauryl Glucoside
How to avoid Lauryl Glucoside: safer alternatives
Decyl glucoside for even milder cleansing; sodium cocoyl isethionate as a powder-form alternative.
Frequently asked questions about Lauryl Glucoside
Is lauryl glucoside the same as SLS?
No. Despite both containing 'lauryl,' they are chemically distinct. Lauryl glucoside is a non-ionic glucoside-based surfactant; SLS is an anionic sulfate. Lauryl glucoside is significantly gentler.
Is lauryl glucoside natural?
It is derived from natural plant sources and is approved for use in ECOCERT/COSMOS organic-certified products.
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Sources
- Safety Assessment of Alkyl Glucosides โ Cosmetic Ingredient Review
- EWG Skin Deep: Lauryl Glucoside โ Environmental Working Group
Our scores are never influenced by brands. Last updated 6/11/2026.