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SODIUM COCO SULFOACETATE.

Valuable CAS - / CLEANSING, SURFACTANT - CLEANSING, SURFACTANT - EMULSIFYING

Sodium Coco Sulfoacetate, commonly known as Sodium Coco Sulfate (SCS), is an anionic surfactant derived from coconut oil. It functions as an effective cleansing and foaming agent, designed to emulsify oils and impurities for efficient rinsing from the skin and hair.

Summary

Cleansing Emulsifying Surfactant Foaming Agent

Science

Mechanism of Action

This ingredient operates as an anionic surfactant, effectively reducing water's surface tension. This action enables it to emulsify cutaneous oils and environmental impurities, facilitating their suspension in water for efficient removal. It also contributes to the formation of a rich, gentle foam.

Research

Clinical Evidence

Medium confidence
Effective range 0.3–29%
Optimal

7.5%

Key findings

  1. 01 Demonstrates efficacy as an anionic surfactant and foaming agent across a concentration range of 0.3% to 29.0% in topical personal cleansing products.
  2. 02 Typical concentrations for effective cleansing in liquid formulations are between 1% and 15%, while solid cleansing bars may utilize significantly higher concentrations, upwards of 80%.
  3. 03 A specific formulation containing 7.5% Sodium Coco Sulfate (SCS) combined with 5% glycerin was identified as optimal for achieving both cleaning ability and a moisturizing effect.
  4. 04 Research indicates that SCS has a notable capacity to interact with and elicit epidermal lipids, which, particularly at higher concentrations or without co-formulated emollients, may impact the protective epidermal barrier.

Transparency

Dusting Analysis

Not commonly dusted

The Formula

Formulation

Solubility
Water
Optimal pH 7 – 9
0 7 14

Stability

Pure solutions of Sodium Coco Sulfate (SCS) typically exhibit a pH range of 7.0–9.0. Its inherent alkalinity, often between 9.0–11.0, necessitates pH adjustment when formulating for skin or hair applications. Stability is notably compromised in acidic environments below pH 5. It demonstrates partial resistance to hard water.

Synergies

  • Glycerin (shown to enhance moisturizing effects when co-formulated)

Conflicts

  • Strongly acidic environments (pH below 5)

Safety

Safety Profile

CIR Status
Safe as used
Max tested
29%
Sensitization risk Moderate

The Cosmetic Ingredient Review (CIR) Expert Panel assessed the safety of alkyl sulfates, including Sodium Coco Sulfate, concluding they are safe for cosmetic use. While generally considered milder than Sodium Lauryl Sulfate (SLS) due to its broader fatty acid profile, it does contain SLS and can act as a strong surfactant. This characteristic may induce irritation in individuals with compromised skin barriers or known allergies, making it potentially unsuitable for ultra-sensitive skin without the inclusion of additional emollients. It is important to note that the provided data for 'SODIUM COCO SULFOACETATE' consistently refers to 'Sodium Coco Sulfate' (SCS) as the commonly recognized and studied ingredient.

Your Skin

Skin Compatibility

Yes Normal
No Dry
Yes Oily
No Sensitive
Irritancy Moderate
Comedogenicity Unknown

Our Assessment

Verdict

Valuable

Sodium Coco Sulfoacetate (SCS) is a valuable surfactant for effective cleansing and foaming, best utilized in rinse-off formulations for normal to oily skin, with careful consideration for barrier protection in sensitive or dry skin.

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