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Sodium Lauroyl Sarcosinate

Also known as: N-dodecanoyl-N-methylglycine sodium salt, Gardol, lauroyl sarcosine, N-lauroylsarcosinate, Sodium Lauroyl Sarcosinate

Overview

Sodium Lauroyl Sarcosinate is a synthetically derived surfactant from sarcosine, an amino acid found in various tissues in the body. This ingredient primarily acts as a surfactant and lubricating agent, widely used in personal care products like shampoos and soaps due to its capacity to reduce surface tension. Research on its properties is primarily focused on its safety and efficacy in cosmetic applications rather than its use as a dietary supplement. Studies have assessed its effects on skin microbiome, lipidome, and oral bacteria inhibition. Despite being recognized for its surfactant properties, comprehensive studies on its potential health benefits as a supplement are lacking.

Benefits

Evidence regarding the health benefits of Sodium Lauroyl Sarcosinate as a supplement is minimal. However, it has shown potential in affecting the skin microbiome and lipidome positively when incorporated into facial cleansers, with self-control studies indicating these effects. Additionally, in vitro studies suggest that it may inhibit certain oral bacteria like lactobacilli, which could imply applications in oral health. Despite these findings, the absence of clinical trials limits robust conclusions on specific populations that might benefit or establishing significant effect sizes.

How it works

Sodium Lauroyl Sarcosinate functions primarily as a surfactant by lowering surface tension in cosmetic formulations. This action aids in facilitating cleansing by enabling the removal of dirt and oils from skin and mucous membranes. Its influence on microbial communities and lipid composition on the skin suggests a role in modulating skin health, though the specific molecular targets or pathways involved in potential supplementary effects have not been identified.

Side effects

Sodium Lauroyl Sarcosinate is generally regarded as safe for cosmetic use according to toxicological data, with low oral toxicity levels (LD50 of 4.2 to 6.0 g/kg in rats). As a supplement, side effects are not well documented due to a lack of research; thus, the safety profile remains largely undetermined. There are no identified common, uncommon, or rare side effects linked to its supplementation. No drug interactions or contraindications have been noted. Specific populations, such as pregnant women and children, have not been extensively studied, leaving a gap in safety guidance for these groups.

Dosage

For cosmetic applications, concentrations of Sodium Lauroyl Sarcosinate can reach up to 15% in rinse-off products. However, there is no established dosage for use as a supplement. The minimum effective dose, optimal dosage ranges, and maximum safe doses are not documented in research, and therefore no timing and absorption considerations can be provided due to the lack of studies evaluating its dietary use.

FAQs

Can Sodium Lauroyl Sarcosinate be used as a dietary supplement?

Sodium Lauroyl Sarcosinate is not typically classified as a dietary supplement and is primarily used in cosmetic formulations.

Is Sodium Lauroyl Sarcosinate safe for cosmetics?

Yes, it is generally considered safe for use in cosmetic applications; however, there is limited data on its safety as a dietary supplement.

What are the common uses of Sodium Lauroyl Sarcosinate?

It is largely used in personal care products for its surfactant properties, functioning effectively in shampoos and cleansers.

Are there any side effects associated with Sodium Lauroyl Sarcosinate?

There are no well-documented side effects associated with its use; most data come from its cosmetics safety profile.

How does Sodium Lauroyl Sarcosinate compare to other surfactants?

Unlike common surfactants like sodium lauryl sulfate, Sodium Lauroyl Sarcosinate is milder and less likely to irritate the skin.

Research Sources

https://journals.sagepub.com/doi/full/10.1177/10915818211023881 – A study assessing the effects of Sodium Lauroyl Sarcosinate on the skin microbiome and lipid composition determined that this ingredient alters prokaryotic populations positively. However, it was limited by small sample size and lack of necessary controls.
https://pubchem.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/compound/sodium%20n-lauroyl%20sarcosinate – The PubChem entry provides chemical identification and application data, including its common usage in personal care products, though lacking comprehensive studies on its effects as a dietary supplement.
https://www.cir-safety.org/sites/default/files/sarcos032016TAR.pdf – This safety assessment reports low toxicity levels from toxicological studies, with extensive evaluations of Sodium Lauroyl Sarcosinate's safety for cosmetic use and the absence of significant toxic effects.
https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/13398515/ – An in vitro study indicating the inhibition of oral bacteria by Sodium Lauroyl Sarcosinate, although results may not translate to in vivo situations, thus limiting applicability.
https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/37990616/ – This study explores the effects of Sodium Lauroyl Sarcosinate on skin surfaces, showing implications for cleansing efficacy, but lacks a clinical trial framework.