Quick answer
Coconut-derived cleansing agent regarded as compatible with sensitive skin; Known to mitigate disruption of skin’s barrier; Produces gentle foaming action; Deemed safe by the Cosmetic Ingredient Review Expert Panel
Sodium Cocoyl Isethionate
Updated
Fatty acids, coco, 2-sulfoethyl esters, sodium salts
Purpose
Mild cleansing agent derived from coconut, known to mitigate disruption of skin’s barrier. Provides gentle foaming action.
Rating
GOOD
Category
Cleansing Agent
INCI Purpose
CLEANSING, HAIR CONDITIONING, SURFACTANT - CLEANSING
Alternative Names
Hair Profile
Functions
Helps With
Suitable For
Role
Ultra-mild anionic (baby foam). Leaves hair incredibly soft post-wash; does not strip the acid mantle.
At a Glance
Coconut-derived cleansing agent regarded as compatible with sensitive skin
Known to mitigate disruption of skin’s barrier
Produces gentle foaming action
Deemed safe by the Cosmetic Ingredient Review Expert Panel
Article
Sodium cocoyl isethionate is a mild soap-free cleansing agent known for its ability to mitigate disruption of skin’s barrier. It is derived from coconut and is regarded as compatible with sensitive skin. It’s an anionic surfactant, meaning a cleansing agent with a negative instead of a positive charge. Anionic surfactants are the most common type due to their ability to lift and suspend dirt, oil, and debris, allowing them to be washed away.
Suppliers of this ingredient tout its gentle foaming action as a desirable quality for consumers, even though the foam itself has little cleansing ability. In addition to skin care formulations, sodium cocoyl isethionate is a popular ingredient in hair products.
Sodium cocoyl isethionate has been deemed safe by the Cosmetic Ingredient Review Expert Panel. Their report surveyed products containing up to 49.4% in rinse-off formulas and 17% for leave-on products.
Sodium cocoyl isethionate is a powder in its raw material form.
See: Surfactant
References