Introduction
If you have ever browsed the ingredient list on a shampoo bottle, you may have seen Sodium cocoyl isethionate – a name that sounds complicated but plays a crucial role in modern hair care. In this guide, you can learn about “What is sodium cocoyl hydroxyethyl sulfonate?” “Is sodium cocoyl hydroxyethyl sulfonate harmful to hair?”. Let’s learn about the components of this common cosmetic and its applications together.
What is Sodium Cocoyl Isethionate?
Definition()
Sodium cocoyl hydroxyethyl sulfonate (SCI), CAS 61789-32-0, is a high-performance surfactant that can reduce surface tension between two liquids or between liquids and solids. It has become a commonly used ingredient in modern personal care products.
It is a gentle coconut cleanser made from a combination of coconut oil fatty acids and isethionic acid. This combination gives SCI the unique property of being a biodegradable, eco-friendly cleanser that effectively removes dirt and oil without stripping hair of its natural moisture.
Chemical Characteristics()
- INCI Name: Sodium Cocoyl Isethionate
- CAS Number: 61789-32-0
- Molecular Formula: C18H35NaO3S
- Molecular Weight：1555.23182
- Appearance: White powder, flakes, or noodles
Anionic Surfactant Structure
SCI is an anionic surfactant, meaning the “head” of the molecule, which is hydrophilic (water-loving), carries a negative charge. This structure is composed of:
- Hydrophobic Tail: A long chain of fatty acids derived from coconut oil. This part is lipophilic (oil-loving) and responsible for binding to dirt and oil.
- Hydrophilic Head: The isethionate group (), which contains the highly soluble sulfonate group. This part is responsible for attracting water and allowing the overall molecule to be easily rinsed away.
Synthesis of Sodium Cocoyl Isethionate
SCI is produced by reacting sodium isethionate with coconut fatty acids, followed by neutralization with sodium hydroxide and removal of excess fatty acid. It is biodegradable and suitable for use in both hard and soft water. The pH of aqueous solutions of SCI usually ranges from 5 to 6.5, making it excellent for skin and hair care products. It is well-known for leaving a soft, conditioned afterfeel without drying the skin.
Benefits of Sodium Cocoyl Isethionate in Personal Care
Gentle Cleansing Without Irritation
SCI’s larger molecules resist penetration, making it ideal for sensitive scalps and children’s products. This mild surfactant effectively cleanses while minimizing irritation, making it a perfect choice for sensitive skin and scalp conditions.
Moisturizing Properties
Unlike many surfactants, SCI cleanses without stripping the natural oils or disrupting the scalp’s lipid barrier. This helps retain moisture, leaving hair and skin feeling hydrated and soft. It is especially beneficial for dry or curly hair types, where maintaining natural oils is key for hair health and manageability.
pH-Balanced for Skin and Hair
SCI formulations typically maintain a pH between 5 and 7, closely matching the natural acidity of skin and hair. This pH balance helps reduce irritation and preserve the integrity of skin and hair, further contributing to the mildness and suitability of SCI for sensitive skin and scalp.
Eco-Friendly and Biodegradable
Derived naturally from coconut oil fatty acids, SCI is biodegradable and aligns with the demand for eco-friendly and sustainable personal care ingredients. It breaks down readily in the environment, making it a greener alternative to conventional sulfate surfactants commonly used in shampoos and cleansers.
Why Use Sodium Cocoyl Isethionate in Shampoo and Skincare?
Sodium Cocoyl Isethionate (SCI) is widely favored in shampoos and skincare as a superior alternative to traditional sulfate surfactants like Sodium Lauryl Sulfate (SLS) and Sodium Laureth Sulfate (SLES). Unlike these harsher sulfates, SCI delivers gentle cleansing that effectively removes dirt and oils without stripping the skin or hair of natural moisture. It is especially valued in sulfate-free shampoos, where mildness and hydration are paramount for sensitive scalps and delicate skin.
Comparison with Sulfate Surfactants (SLS/SLES)
SLS and SLES are strong detergents known for their deep cleaning and foaming capabilities, but they can also cause dryness, irritation, and damage to skin and hair due to their aggressive nature. SCI, derived from coconut oil fatty acids and isethionic acid, has a more complex molecular structure, which accounts for its gentler effect. It produces creamy, stable foam and cleanses without harshness, making it much less irritating and better suited for sensitive or damaged skin and scalp conditions.
Gentle Cleansing and Moisturizing
SCI’s mildness allows it to cleanse thoroughly while preserving the scalp’s natural oil barrier. It helps retain moisture and prevent dryness or tightness, which is why it is especially beneficial for dry, curly, or sensitive hair and skin. In contrast to sulfates, SCI-based shampoos contribute to smoother, softer hair and healthier skin by avoiding the stripping effects common in conventional shampoos.
Preferred in Sulfate-Free Shampoos
The demand for sulfate-free personal care products has propelled SCI into prominence as a trusted ingredient. It offers an effective cleansing experience with a rich lather without the downsides of sulfates, fitting perfectly into formulations aimed at reducing irritation, improving scalp health, and supporting eco-conscious beauty routines.
Sodium Cocoyl Isethionate vs. Traditional Sulfates
| Feature | SCI | Sulfates (SLS/SLES) |
|---|---|---|
| Cleansing Strength | Mild, non-stripping | Harsh, may over-cleanse |
| Moisture Impact | Retains natural oils | Strips lipids, leading to dryness |
| Eco-Footprint | Biodegradable, low toxicity | Persists in waterways |
| Scalp Compatibility | Safe for sensitive skin | May trigger irritation |
| Hair Color Safety | Protects dyed hair | Accelerates fading |
Is Sodium Cocoyl Isethionate Safe?
Sodium cocoyl isethionate (SCI) is recognized as safe for use in cosmetics and personal care products. Studies have shown that concentrations of SCI up to 50% in rinse-off products, such as shampoo, and up to 17% in leave-on products, are safe. SCI is non-toxic, non-carcinogenic, and biodegradable, making it suitable for a wide range of consumers, including those with sensitive skin, children, and those with chemically treated hair, such as those with dyed or permed hair.
SCI is generally well-tolerated with minimal irritation potential, although, like many surfactants, it can cause mild ocular irritation at high concentrations. It is not a sensitizer or phototoxic. Safety data also support that it is non-mutagenic based on genetic toxicity tests. For personal use, especially first-time use, a patch test on the skin is recommended to ensure no allergic reaction or irritation occurs.
Sodium Cocoyl Isethionate Powder: Applications and Advantages
Sodium Cocoyl Isethionate (SCI) is commonly available in powder, granular, or flaked forms. These forms are preferred for both DIY cosmetic formulation and industrial-scale production because of their versatility and ease of use. SCI powder is especially valued for creating solid shampoo bars, baby cleansing products, and gentle facial cleansers due to its mild and effective cleansing properties.
Common Applications
- Solid Shampoo and Cleansing Bars: SCI is a key ingredient for sulfate-free solid shampoo bars and syndet bars, providing rich, stable foam and a long-lasting, non-crumbling bar texture.
- Baby and Sensitive Skin Products: Its gentle nature makes it ideal for baby shampoos, soaps, and skincare formulas where mildness is essential.
- Facial Cleansers: SCI powder is used in gentle foam cleansers that clean without stripping natural oils or irritating sensitive skin.
Advantages of SCI Powder
- High Stability: SCI powder maintains its integrity well over time, making it easy to store and handle.
- Concentrated Surfactant Content: Typically around 85% active surfactant, SCI powder allows for potent formulations with smaller quantities.
- Cost-Effective: Its concentrated form saves on shipping and storage costs compared to liquid surfactants.
- Eco-Friendly: Derived from natural coconut fatty acids and isethionic acid, SCI is biodegradable and aligns well with sustainable product demands.
Where to Buy Sodium Cocoyl Isethionate powder（CAS 61789-32-0） in Bulk?
Runtai Chemical is a leading supplier of bulk sodium cocoyl isethionate (SCI) powder. With over 15 years of export experience, we specialize in high-purity SCI at competitive prices.
Runtai Chemical boasts a stable supply chain and fast delivery capabilities, ensuring reliable service for industrial and commercial customers. We offer free samples and support OEM formulations, striving to be a comprehensive partner for our buyers.
Conclusion
Sodium Cocoyl Isethionate (SCI) is a gentle, safe, and eco-friendly surfactant ideal for sulfate-free personal care products. It offers mild cleansing, moisturizing benefits, and pH balance while being biodegradable and sustainable. SCI is poised to be the key ingredient for future gentle cleansing formulations.
Runtai Chemical has over 15 years of export experience, providing high-purity SCI at very competitive prices. We guarantee stable supply, fast delivery, free samples, and support OEM formulations, making us a trusted bulk supplier for manufacturers seeking high-quality SCI powder.
FAQS
Q1: What is Sodium Cocoyl Isethionate（CAS 61789-32-0） used for?
SCI is widely used as a mild surfactant in shampoo, body wash, facial cleansers, and baby care products. It provides gentle cleansing and rich foam without stripping natural oils.
Q2: Can I buy Sodium Cocoyl Isethionate in bulk?
Yes. Many cosmetic ingredient suppliers, including Runtai Chemical, provide bulk SCI powder, flakes, or noodles for customers with competitive pricing and stable supply.
Q3: What is Sodium Cocoyl Isethionate Powder?
SCI powder is a concentrated, easy-to-store form of this ingredient. It is commonly used in solid shampoo bars, facial cleansers, and eco-friendly formulations because it’s stable and versatile.
Q4: Why is Sodium Cocoyl Isethionate used in shampoo?
SCI in shampoo offers gentle cleansing, moisturizing, and pH-balanced performance, making it a popular alternative to sulfates like SLS/SLES. It helps protect hair moisture and color while reducing irritation.
Q5: Is Sodium Cocoyl Isethionate bad for hair?
No. Sodium Cocoyl Isethionate is considered safe and non-irritating. Unlike harsh sulfates, it does not damage the scalp or cause dryness. Dermatology reviews confirm it’s safe for most hair types, including dyed or chemically treated hair.
Q6: Is Sodium Cocoyl Isethionate good for hair care?
Yes. SCI is especially recommended for dry, curly, or sensitive hair. It retains natural oils, gives a silky after-feel, and is a preferred choice in sulfate-free shampoos and conditioners.
