Sodium Cocoyl Glycinate comes from the reaction between coconut fatty acids and the amino acid glycine. This unique blend brings together the gentle cleansing properties of coconut oil with the skin-friendly nature of glycine, making it a staple in personal care. As a surfactant, it appears in everything from facial washes to shampoos and body cleansers. The ingredient offers a mildness uncommon in traditional detergents, which helps preserve the skin’s natural moisture barrier. The formula behind this raw material: C16H30NNaO3 (molecular weight around 307.41). Since I started using cleansers with it, I noticed less dryness and irritation compared to sulfates or soap-based products, which often stripped my skin.
Looking closer at its forms, Sodium Cocoyl Glycinate shows up as a white to off-white powder, solid flakes, translucent pearls, and even as a viscous liquid for easier formulation. The solid forms—flakes, powders, and pearls—typically have a melting point ranging from 80°C to 100°C, while the liquid grades carry concentrations of 30% to 35%. Density for the solid ranges near 1.08 g/cm3, and the liquid grades hover close to 1.10 g/cm3. Its solubility in water stands out, so manufacturers often choose it for clear or translucent formulations. I’ve handled the powder; the fine consistency makes it easy to blend, though proper dust control is still smart practice. Many prefer it for bulk handling in industrial settings, since it stores well in a dry, cool environment and doesn’t clump if you keep air exposure down.
On paper, Sodium Cocoyl Glycinate carries a structure with both a fatty acid tail and an amino acid head. This amphiphilic setup is why it dissolves oils and dirt while staying gentle on the skin. Specifications for raw materials usually focus on purity above 95% for the active surfactant, with low residual glycine and sodium chloride to avoid unwanted impurities. Consistent foaming behavior—dense, creamy, and persistent—comes from the cocoyl chain; it separates it from harsher cleansers. As someone who has researched ingredient lists for both boutique and mass-market skin cleansers, I see Sodium Cocoyl Glycinate listed more and more often. This shift reflects growing consumer demand for both performance and skin health, pushing manufacturers to adopt high-purity versions with clear quality control standards.
For international trade, the raw material falls under HS Code 3402.11, which covers organic surface-active agents. That placement ensures clear regulatory tracking and taxation. Bulk shipments use fiber drums or lined bags for solids, while tank containers or IBC totes handle liquids. Since it contains both plant-based and synthetic components, documentation needs to be airtight. Warehousing focuses on low temperatures and moisture control—less about hazard, more about maintaining the expected shelf life and performance. Having spent time reviewing supply chain data, I see that reliable sourcing for this ingredient helps brands keep up with demand and meet compliance deadlines.
Safety assessments put Sodium Cocoyl Glycinate in a favorable light. It’s not classified as hazardous under GHS, and labeling rarely requires anything beyond standard storage and handling practices. Acute oral and dermal toxicity studies show low toxicity; skin irritation potential rates as very low, according to published research from cosmetic panels and regulatory filings—so everyday use in rinse-off products carries minimal risk. For those curious about allergic potential, research shows a much lower rate of skin reactions than sulfate-based cleansers. This makes it suitable for sensitive or compromised skin, from children to adults. Environmental factors tip further in its favor; biodegradability studies report strong breakdown in both aerobic and anaerobic conditions, limiting the risk of bioaccumulation. Compared to classic surfactants like SLS or SLES, this profile has strong appeal for eco-conscious brands and users.
Personal care producers turn to Sodium Cocoyl Glycinate for its gentle cleansing, but also because of its compatibility with other surfactants and conditioning agents. In shampoos, it reduces scalp irritation. In facial foams, it delivers dense lather without stripping. In shaving creams, the glide and cushion help reduce micro-cuts. Beyond finished goods, formulators value its stable pH profile; the optimal pH range spans 4.5 to 7.5, keeping formulations mild for skin health. If a product is failing irritancy tests, switching from a sulfate or carboxylate surfactant to Sodium Cocoyl Glycinate can resolve redness, tightness, or stinging. The formula’s compatibility with hard water keeps lather performance consistent, so global brands can use it in diverse regions. As green chemistry advances, new extraction and synthesis methods keep lowering environmental footprints. I’ve seen new sources of high-purity glycine and coconut oils emerge, which reduce seasonal price swings and secure supply. For cosmetic entrepreneurs hunting for ways to “clean up” products, this ingredient checks both safety and performance boxes.
Sodium Cocoyl Glycinate bridges the gap between effective cleansing and skin gentleness. Its spectrum of forms—flakes, powders, pearls, liquids—fits multiple production lines without forcing major changes. The chemical makeup and molecular details drive this balance, supporting rich foam, low irritation, and high rinseability. Strong safety, low environmental hazard, and consistent compliance make it a modern surfactant of choice. With clear data on purity, structure, and handling, brands and chemists hold more options for safe, gentle, and sustainable formulations. From my experience exploring ingredient panels and user feedback, real-life skin comfort and manufacturer flexibility both benefit from this ingredient’s unique properties. As shifts in consumer awareness push for less irritation, more transparency, and eco-minded practices, Sodium Cocoyl Glycinate stands well-positioned for today’s and tomorrow’s demand.
