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GLYCERETH-7 COCOATE.

Valuable / CLEANSING, HAIR CONDITIONING, HUMECTANT, SKIN CONDITIONING, SURFACTANT - CLEANSING, SURFACTANT - EMULSIFYING

GLYCERETH-7 COCOATE, also known as PEG-7 Glyceryl Cocoate, is a multifunctional ethoxylated fatty acid ester prized for its emollient, cleansing, and emulsifying properties. Its amphiphilic structure enables it to effectively cleanse skin by solubilizing impurities while simultaneously enhancing hydration and promoting a smooth feel.

Emollient Emulsifying Surfactant Cleansing Solubilizer Humectant Lubricant

Science

This ingredient functions by lubricating the skin's surface, contributing to a soft and smooth texture. Its unique amphiphilic molecular structure, featuring both hydrophilic and lipophilic components, allows it to interact effectively with both oily and aqueous substances. The lipophilic portion binds to skin impurities and excess oils, facilitating their detachment, while the hydrophilic portion aids in their subsequent rinsing with water. Furthermore, it acts as an emollient and humectant, forming a delicate protective layer that reduces transepidermal water loss and maintains skin moisture. As an emulsifier, it stabilizes oil-in-water formulations by lowering surface tension, ensuring homogeneous blends.


Research

Medium confidence
Effective range 0.5–10%
Optimal

N/A

Key findings

  1. 01 At a 50% concentration, GLYCERETH-7 COCOATE demonstrated no phototoxic potential in clinical studies.
  2. 02 Dermal application at 50% concentration produced no irritation in two studies, though slight irritation was observed in one other study.
  3. 03 At 10% concentration, it was found to be a non-ocular irritant and did not induce sensitization via intracutaneous injection.
  4. 04 The CIR Expert Panel concluded it is safe for use in rinse-off products and in leave-on products at concentrations up to 10%.
  5. 05 Reported concentrations of use in certain leave-on hair grooming aids have been as high as 11.3%.

Transparency

Not commonly dusted

The Formula

Solubility
Water
Optimal pH 5 – 8
0 7 14

Stability

GLYCERETH-7 COCOATE exhibits excellent stability across a pH range of 5.0 to 8.0. As a non-ionic surfactant, it is compatible with both anionic and amphoteric surfactants. It can be integrated into formulations at any production stage. While 1,4-dioxane, a by-product of ethoxylation, may be present, its levels can be controlled through purification processes.

Synergies

  • Anionic surfactants
  • Amphoteric surfactants

Safety

CIR Status
Safe with restrictions
Max tested
10%
Sensitization risk Low

The Cosmetic Ingredient Review (CIR) Expert Panel determined GLYCERETH-7 COCOATE is safe for use in rinse-off cosmetic products and safe in leave-on products at concentrations not exceeding 10%. While concerns exist regarding the presence of 1,4-dioxane, a by-product of its manufacturing process (ethoxylation), stringent purification steps can effectively control and minimize its presence in final formulations.


Your Skin

Yes Normal
Yes Dry
Yes Oily
Yes Sensitive
Irritancy Low
Comedogenicity Low

Our Assessment

Valuable

GLYCERETH-7 COCOATE is a versatile and well-tolerated ingredient that provides emollient, cleansing, and emulsifying benefits across all skin types, making it a valuable addition to many formulations.


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