Sodium Cocoyl Glutamate
Reviewed by Rosie · Last updated 18 Aug 2026
Also known as: Glutamic Acid, Sodium Cocoyl Isethionate, Sodium Cocoyl Glycinate, Sodium Methyl Cocoyl Taurate, Surfactant, Disodium Cocoyl Glutamate
Mild cleansing agent made from glutamic acid and coconut oil | Considered non-irritating to skin
Addresses
EWG Safety Score
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What Is Sodium Cocoyl Glutamate?
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.
Clinical Evidence & References
Published Research
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Journal of Cosmetic Dermatology, June 2019, pages 821–826 [https://onlinelibrary.wiley.com/doi/abs/10.1111/jocd.12680]
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Clinical, Cosmetic, and Investigational Dermatology, October 2017, pages 393–401 [https://pmc.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/articles/PMC5633290/]
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International Journal of Toxicology, May 2017, pages 17S–56S [https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/28553738/]
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Dermatitis, September-October 2010, pages 262-268 [https://www.liebertpub.com/doi/10.2310/6620.2010.10022]
From the Clinic
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Sodium Cocoyl Alaninate
A coconut-derived surfactant that cleanses while providing conditioning and lubrication
Sodium Cocoyl Amino Acids
Made from amino acids derived from coconut. | Works as a gentle cleansing and skin-replenishing ingredient
Sodium Cocoyl Apple Amino Acids
A gentle coconut-derived cleanser designed to remove impurities whilst preserving skin barrier function
Sodium Cocoyl Glycinate
Amino acid-derived cleansing agent | Also used in hair care products
Sodium Cocoyl Isethionate
Coconut-derived cleansing agent regarded as compatible with sensitive skin | Known to mitigate disruption of skin’s barrier
Sodium Cocoyl Methyl Isethionate
A gentle, coconut-derived cleanser that removes oil and impurities without stripping the skin
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