Sodium Cocoyl Glutamate

Good

Cleansing Agent

No known benefits

Sodium Cocoyl Glutamate at a glance

  • Mild cleansing agent made from glutamic acid and coconut oil
  • Considered non-irritating to skin
  • Produces a rich lather that also helps stabilize cleansers
  • May be animal- or plant-derived or made synthetically

Sodium Cocoyl Glutamate description

Sodium cocoyl glutamate is a mild cleansing agent derived from coconut oil and the amino acid glutamic acid. It’s considered non-irritating in concentrations up to 10%. This gentle surfactant produces a rich lather that has a stabilizing effect on the bubbles, allowing them to last longer before breaking down. It’s also used to help soften (remove excess minerals from) hard water, allowing cleansers to work to their full potential. In fact, research has shown it’s an effective option for sensitive, oily skin when compared with standard sulfate cleansing agents. Usage levels of sodium cocoyl glutamate in skin care range from 2–30% based on formulary needs and whether it’s the primary or secondary surfactant. These levels are considered safe as used in rinse-off products.

Sodium Cocoyl Glutamate references

  • Journal of Cosmetic Dermatology, June 2019, pages 821–826
  • Clinical, Cosmetic, and Investigational Dermatology, October 2017, pages 393–401
  • International Journal of Toxicology, May 2017, pages 17S–56S
  • Dermatitis, September-October 2010, pages 262-268

Peer-reviewed, substantiated scientific research is used to assess ingredients in this dictionary. Regulations regarding constraints, permitted concentration levels and availability vary by country and region.

Ingredient ratings

Best

Proven and supported by independent studies. Outstanding active ingredient for most skin types or concerns.

Good

Necessary to improve a formula's texture, stability, or penetration.

Average

Generally non-irritating but may have aesthetic, stability, or other issues that limit its usefulness.

Bad

There is a likelihood of irritation. Risk increases when combined with other problematic ingredients.

Worst

May cause irritation, inflammation, dryness, etc. May offer benefit in some capability but overall, proven to do more harm than good.

unknown

We couldn't find this in our ingredient dictionary. We log all missing ingredients and make continuous updates.

Not rated

We have not yet rated this ingredient because we have not had a chance to review the research on it.