Disodium Cocoyl Glutamate: What Is It, Cosmetic Uses, Benefits & Side Effects

Curious about this ingredient? In this article we're explaining exactly what it is and why it's used within cosmetic formulations.
Updated on: June 27, 2025
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We verify all information on this page using publicly available nomenclature standards from The Personal Care Products Council (PCPC), the European Commission's CosIng database and documentation provided directly by ingredient manufacturers. Our analysis is based on technical data from these sources to ensure accuracy and reliability.

What Is Disodium Cocoyl Glutamate?

Disodium Cocoyl Glutamate is a mild cleansing agent made by joining two naturally occurring building blocks: coconut-derived fatty acids and glutamic acid, an amino acid that can be obtained from fermented sugar. When the coconut fatty acids are attached to glutamic acid then neutralized with a little sodium, the result is a gentle surfactant that carries a slight negative charge in water. This charge helps it lift away oil and dirt without stripping skin or hair.

The ingredient first appeared in Japanese skin care labs during the early 1990s when brands were looking for sulfate-free alternatives that could clean well yet feel softer on the skin. Its popularity grew as consumers demanded gentler shampoos and face washes, and today it is a common choice for formulators who want a plant-based surfactant suited to sensitive skin.

Manufacturing begins by separating fatty acids from coconut oil. These acids react with glutamic acid to form an acyl glutamate. Finally, sodium carbonate or sodium hydroxide is added to convert the compound into its disodium salt, which dissolves easily in water and produces a light, creamy foam.

You will most often find Disodium Cocoyl Glutamate in facial cleansers, micellar waters, body washes, sulfate-free shampoos, baby bath products, toothpaste, foaming masks and gentle hand soaps. Because it is both mild and biodegradable, it also appears in many so-called “green beauty” formulas.

Disodium Cocoyl Glutamate’s Cosmetic Benefits/Uses

In cosmetics this ingredient serves one main purpose.

Cleansing: As a mild anionic surfactant it binds to oil, makeup and daily grime so they can be rinsed away with water. It produces a soft low-irritation foam that leaves skin and hair feeling clean yet comfortable, which is why it is favored in products for sensitive or dry skin.

Who Can Use Disodium Cocoyl Glutamate

This ingredient is gentle enough for nearly every skin type, including sensitive, dry, mature and baby skin. Its mild action helps maintain the skin’s natural moisture balance so it seldom causes tightness or flaking. Those with very oily or heavily soiled skin may prefer a stronger cleanser for a deeper clean, but Disodium Cocoyl Glutamate can still serve as a first-step or morning wash.

Because it is manufactured from coconut fatty acids and glutamic acid sourced from fermented sugar, it is suitable for vegans and vegetarians. No animal-derived materials are needed in its production.

Pregnant and breastfeeding women can generally use products that contain this surfactant without concern, as it is not known to penetrate deeply or interfere with hormonal pathways. This information is not medical advice, so anyone who is pregnant or nursing should show the full ingredient list of a product to a doctor before adding it to a routine.

Disodium Cocoyl Glutamate does not make skin more sensitive to sunlight and poses no known issues related to photosensitivity. It is also readily biodegradable, which appeals to users looking for environmentally responsible formulas.

Potential Side Effects/Adverse Reactions

Reactions to the topical use of Disodium Cocoyl Glutamate can vary from person to person. The points below outline potential side effects, but they are uncommon when the ingredient is formulated and used correctly.

  • Mild skin irritation such as redness or itching
  • Transient stinging if the product gets into the eyes
  • Dryness or tightness when used at very high concentrations or without supportive moisturizers
  • Allergic contact dermatitis in individuals sensitized to coconut-derived ingredients

If any discomfort or unusual reaction occurs stop using the product and consult a healthcare professional or dermatologist for guidance.

Comedogenic Rating

Rating: 0 / 5

Disodium Cocoyl Glutamate is a water-soluble cleansing agent that rinses away completely without leaving an oily film that could trap debris in pores. It is typically used in wash-off formulas at low concentrations and breaks down readily in water, giving it virtually no opportunity to clog pores. As such it is considered non-comedogenic.

Those prone to acne or breakouts can generally use products containing this ingredient without added worry.

Any pore-clogging risk in a final product would more likely come from heavier emollients or occlusive agents rather than from Disodium Cocoyl Glutamate itself.

Summary

Disodium Cocoyl Glutamate is a gentle plant-derived surfactant that cleanses by binding to oil and grime then carrying them away with water. Its coconut fatty acid and glutamic acid structure delivers mild foaming action that leaves skin and hair feeling fresh yet comfortable.

Thanks to the growing interest in sulfate-free and eco-friendly formulas this ingredient has become a familiar sight in facial cleansers, shampoos, body washes and even baby care products, though it still coexists with many other surfactants on the market.

Overall it is regarded as very safe with a low chance of irritation or allergy for most users. Even so it is wise to do a small patch test whenever you introduce a new product that contains it, just to be on the safe side.

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