Ingredient

Sodium Cocoyl Isethionate

Positive in 5 products Neutral in 2

What is Sodium Cocoyl Isethionate?

Sodium Cocoyl Isethionate is a surfactant derived from coconut oil and isethionic acid. It is often used in personal care products like shampoos and body washes for its ability to cleanse without excessive drying or irritation.

It acts to create a lather that helps remove dirt and oils from skin and hair, making products more effective. While studies generally regard it as safe, some people with sensitive skin might experience irritation.

When you see Sodium Cocoyl Isethionate on a label, it indicates that the product may have a rich, creamy lather due to this ingredient.

Commonly found in: shampoos, body washes, facial cleansers, bath soaps, syndet bars

Benefits

  • It provides good cleansing ability without stripping natural oils.
  • It is generally considered mild and less irritating compared to harsher surfactants.
FDA

Sodium Cocoyl Isethionate is generally recognized as safe for use in cosmetics by the FDA.

Research

Research indicates it is effective and mild, making it suitable for sensitive skin.

Vegan

Sodium Cocoyl Isethionate is derived from coconut oil and is considered vegan-friendly.

Sources: Safety Assessment of Sodium Cocoyl Isethionate

Scout's take

Sodium Cocoyl Isethionate is a mild surfactant derived from coconut oil. It is known for its gentle cleansing properties and ability to produce a creamy lather.

The case against

Generally considered safe, but may cause mild irritation in very sensitive individuals.

from the analysis of OSEA Undaria Algae Body Wash - Travel Size - Ulta Beauty · echoed in 1 other analysis

There are minimal risks, though it can cause mild irritation in sensitive individuals.

from the analysis of Aveeno Skin Relief Body Wash with Coconut Scent

May cause mild irritation if it comes into contact with the eyes.

from the analysis of Innersense Organic Beauty - Natural Pure Harmony Hairbath Shampoo

The case for

It is known for being gentle and non-drying, making it suitable for sensitive skin.

from the analysis of Native Body Wash Sea Salt & Cedar Sulfate Free for Women & Men

It provides a creamy lather and is less drying than traditional sulfates.

from the analysis of Aveeno Skin Relief Body Wash with Coconut Scent

Provides gentle cleansing without stripping the skin of natural oils.

from the analysis of OSEA Undaria Algae Body Wash - Travel Size - Ulta Beauty

It effectively cleanses the hair while being gentle on the scalp.

from the analysis of Innersense Organic Beauty - Natural Pure Harmony Hairbath Shampoo

More from Scout's analyses

Coconut-derived isethionate surfactant; one of the gentlest non-sulfate cleansers available. EWG 1-3. Foams well without stripping the scalp barrier.

from the analysis of Native Coconut & Vanilla Moisturizing Shampoo

Sodium Cocoyl Isethionate is a surfactant derived from coconut oil, known for its mildness and ability to produce a creamy lather. It is often used in sulfate-free formulations. It is considered safe for most users.

from the analysis of Innersense Organic Beauty - Natural Pure Harmony Hairbath Shampoo

Sodium Cocoyl Isethionate is a surfactant derived from coconut oil. It is used for its ability to create a rich lather and cleanse the skin.

from the analysis of Native Body Wash Sea Salt & Cedar Sulfate Free for Women & Men

Found in 7 products

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