Common Name(s): Lauryl malamide,c12 malic acid amide,lauryl malate amide
DESCRIPTION
What It Does: Gently cleanses skin with a natural malic acid-derived surfactant structure.
Why It's Used: Amide of lauric acid and malic acid; malic acid backbone provides natural aha character and hydrophilicity; c12 lauryl chain provides detergent activity and mild antimicrobial potential; stable amide bond.
How It Works: Malic acid amide backbone provides aha-type mild organic acid character; c12 lauryl chain provides surfactant activity; amide bond provides superior ph stability vs ester-linked analogs.
Typically Found In: Natural cleansers,aha-compatible cleansers,mild surfactant systems
TECHNICAL DETAILS
Primary Category: Functional ingredient – surfactant
Secondary Functions: Skin conditioning,cleansing
Application Areas:
Facial Skincare
Body Care
Hair Care
Beard Care
Color Cosmetics (Makeup)
Dietary/Oral Supplements
Typical Concentration Range: 0.5%–5%
SOURCING & ETHICS
Vegan Status: Yes
Halal Status: Yes
Source Notes: Malic acid from apple/fermentation; lauric acid from coconut; naturally derived.
SKIN COMPATIBILITY
Irritancy Rating: 1/5 – very low
Comedogenicity Rating: 1/5 – low
Sensitivity Concerns: Generally well tolerated.
Safe for Sensitive Skin: Yes
SAFETY & COMPATIBILITY
Safety Profile: Good safety profile. ewg score: 1.
Works Well With: Other natural surfactants,aha ingredients
Avoid Combining With: No significant incompatibilities
SCIENTIFIC NOTE
Hydroxy acid-derived surfactants (lauryl malamide) represent mild natural-origin alternatives to conventional anionic surfactants; the malic acid backbone provides aha-type functionality alongside gentle cleansing.
Last Verified: 2026-03-28
Primary Sources: Cosing database,inci dictionary