Lauroyl Lysine

Lauroyl lysine is a fatty-acid–amino-acid derivative used mainly as a slip/texture and adhesion agent in cosmetics, typically at low single-digit percentages in leave-on products and higher in color cosmetics. Available safety and patch-test data generally show low irritation and low sensitization potential, but as a surfactant-like lipoamino acid it can still provoke occasional stinging or flare in highly compromised eczema skin under occlusion. For patient safety in very reactive populations, I rate it very gentle rather than exceptionally gentle. Safety Notes: Lauroyl lysine is most commonly used as a slip/feel modifier and sebum-absorbing, soft-focus powder in color cosmetics and hybrid skincare-makeup; in leave-on moisturizers/primers/serums it can appear at low levels (~0.05–0.5%) to improve skin feel and reduce tack. In consumer-available loose/pressed powders, foundations, and mineral/blur powders, it is frequently used around 1–10% and can reach very high loadings (up to ~20%) in powder-heavy, high-slip mattifying formulas designed for oil control and sensory payoff. It is uncommon in rinse-off systems and, when present, tends to stay at the low end due to limited benefit and deposition compared to leave-on formats.