Sodium Cocamphoacetate

Sodium Cocamphoacetate is a mild, amphoteric surfactant derived from coconut oil. It is commonly used in cleansers, shampoos, and body washes for its gentle cleansing and foaming properties. This ingredient helps to create a rich lather while minimizing the potential for irritation, making it suitable for sensitive skin. It also has a conditioning effect on skin and hair.

BenefitModerate 1.8 / 4

Soothing i1.5 / 4

Whether it can calm the skin — linked to less redness, irritation, discomfort, or visible reactivity.

Barrier support i1 / 4

Whether it supports the skin barrier — restoring lipids, reducing water loss, aiding barrier repair, or strengthening the skin’s protective function.

RiskLow 0.8 / 4

Irritation i0.5 / 4

Risk of short-term irritation — stinging, burning, dryness, redness, or discomfort. Common for strong actives, acids, retinoids, fragrances, and harsh surfactants.

Rated by SpottyLabs' ingredient methodology, independent of brands.

What it helps with

• Gentle cleansing
• Reduces irritation potential
• Good foaming properties

Things to watch

• Potential for mild irritation in very high concentrations

Pairs well with

• None — Often combined with other surfactants to create balanced, mild cleansing systems.

Products with Sodium Cocamphoacetate

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Frequently asked questions

What is Sodium Cocamphoacetate?

Sodium Cocamphoacetate is a mild surfactant derived from coconut oil, used in personal care products for gentle cleansing and foaming without stripping the skin.

Is Sodium Cocamphoacetate suitable for sensitive skin?

Yes, it is known for its mildness and is often chosen for formulations designed for sensitive skin due to its low irritation potential compared to harsher cleansing agents.

What does Sodium Cocamphoacetate do in a product?

It acts as a cleansing agent, helps create lather, and can improve the feel of the product while also providing a mild conditioning effect on skin and hair.