Disodium Cocoyl Glutamate

Disodium cocoyl glutamate is an anionic surfactant derived from coconut oil and the amino acid glutamate. It belongs to a class of mild cleansing agents designed to remove dirt, oil and makeup from the skin surface whilst maintaining skin integrity.As a surfactant, it works by reducing the surface tension of water, allowing it to lift and suspend oily and hydrophobic substances so they rinse away cleanly. It is typically used in facial cleansers, body washes and other rinse-off products.

Surfactants have two distinct molecular ends: one that is attracted to oil and one attracted to water. When applied to skin, disodium cocoyl glutamate positions itself at the boundary between oily residue and water, breaking up sebum and other lipids into smaller droplets. This allows them to be rinsed away with water, rather than remaining on the skin surface.Because it is derived from amino acids and plant sources, it is structurally less harsh than synthetic anionic surfactants, meaning it tends to cause less disruption to the natural protective layers of the skin.

Disodium cocoyl glutamate is found in rinse-off cleansers, so usage depends on the product format. If using a cleanser containing this ingredient, apply to damp skin, massage gently, and rinse thoroughly with lukewarm water. It is suitable for twice-daily cleansing in most formulas, though individual tolerance may vary depending on what other ingredients are present in the product.

Generally well-tolerated and considered a mild surfactant with low irritation and sensitisation potential compared to harsher alternatives. Patch test if you have very sensitive skin or known sensitivities to surfactants.