Sodium Cocoyl Isethionate
Reviewed by Emma · Last updated 18 Aug 2026
Also known as: Surfactant
Coconut-derived cleansing agent regarded as compatible with sensitive skin | Known to mitigate disruption of skin’s barrier
Addresses
EWG Safety Score
What Is Sodium Cocoyl Isethionate?
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.
Clinical Evidence & References
Published Research
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European Review for Medical and Pharmacological Sciences, Volume 24, 2020, pages 11,432–11,439 [URL NOT FOUND]
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International Journal of Toxicology, May 2017, pages 5S-16S [URL NOT FOUND]
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International Journal of Cosmetic Science, August 2008, page 310 [URL NOT FOUND]
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Therapeutics for the Clinician, May 2005, pages 317-324 [URL NOT FOUND]
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Journal of Cosmetic Science, December 2003, pages 559-568 [URL NOT FOUND]
Frequently Asked Questions
From the Clinic
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Sodium Cocoyl Apple Amino Acids
A gentle coconut-derived cleanser designed to remove impurities whilst preserving skin barrier function
Sodium Cocoyl Glutamate
Mild cleansing agent made from glutamic acid and coconut oil | Considered non-irritating to skin
Sodium Cocoyl Glycinate
Amino acid-derived cleansing agent | Also used in hair care products
Sodium Cocoyl Methyl Isethionate
A gentle, coconut-derived cleanser that removes oil and impurities without stripping the skin
Sodium Cocoyl Sarcosinate
A gentle coconut-derived cleanser that conditions whilst it removes dirt and oil
Sodium Cocoyl Taurate
A coconut-derived cleanser that removes oil and impurities from skin and hair
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