What Is Disodium Dicarboxyethyl Cocopropylenediamine?
Disodium Dicarboxyethyl Cocopropylenediamine is a plant-derived ingredient created from the fatty acids found in coconut oil that are linked to a small nitrogen-rich molecule called propylene diamine. The resulting compound is then reacted with acrylic acid and neutralized with sodium hydroxide, giving it the final salt form that is water-soluble and easy to use in liquid formulas. First appearing in hair cleansers in the early 2000s, it gained popularity as formulators searched for milder surfactants that still deliver a rich feel and quick rinse. Because it carries both water-loving and oil-loving parts, it performs several jobs at once, which helps brands simplify their ingredient lists.
You will most often spot Disodium Dicarboxyethyl Cocopropylenediamine in shampoos, 2-in-1 wash and care products, co-wash creams, clarifying scalp scrubs, micellar facial cleansers, bath gels and even some sheet mask essences that need a gentle cleansing boost.
Disodium Dicarboxyethyl Cocopropylenediamine’s Cosmetic Benefits/Uses
This multitasker supports a formula in more than one way, making it a favorite when a product needs to cleanse without leaving hair or skin feeling stripped.
- Hair Conditioning: Its cationic (positively charged) nature helps it cling to the negatively charged surface of hair, smoothing the cuticle, reducing static and leaving strands softer and easier to comb.
- Cleansing: The ingredient lifts away excess oil, dirt and product residue while creating a light foam that rinses clean, which is especially helpful in sulfate-free shampoos and gentle facial cleansers.
- Hydrotrope: Acting as a solubilizer, it keeps fragrance oils, botanical extracts and other water-resistant actives evenly dispersed so the final product stays clear and stable.
Who Can Use Disodium Dicarboxyethyl Cocopropylenediamine
This ingredient is generally well tolerated by all skin and scalp types. Its mild cleansing action suits oily and combination skin while its conditioning side helps keep normal and dry skin comfortable. Extremely dry or eczematic skin might find any cleanser a bit dehydrating so pairing it with richer moisturizers is wise.
Because the raw material comes from coconut fatty acids and contains no animal byproducts or animal testing requirements, it fits comfortably within vegan and vegetarian lifestyles.
Current safety data does not flag Disodium Dicarboxyethyl Cocopropylenediamine as a concern for people who are pregnant or breastfeeding. It is considered non-sensitizing and is used at low concentrations, yet this is not medical advice; anyone expecting or nursing should review all products with a qualified healthcare professional.
The molecule does not increase photosensitivity, so it will not make skin more prone to sunburn. It is also color safe, making it suitable for those with dyed or chemically treated hair.
Potential Side Effects/Adverse Reactions
Side effects from topical use can vary from person to person. The points below outline potential reactions that could occur, though most users experience none of these when the ingredient is formulated and used correctly.
- Skin irritation redness, itching or mild burning sensation
- Allergic contact dermatitis delayed rash or hives in individuals sensitive to amine derivatives
- Eye stinging temporary discomfort if the product gets into the eyes
- Dryness or tightness feeling of stripped skin or hair when used in very high concentrations or without follow-up conditioning agents
If any of these effects occur discontinue use and consult a healthcare professional.
Comedogenic Rating
Rating: 0–1 (very low)
Disodium Dicarboxyethyl Cocopropylenediamine is a highly water-soluble salt that rinses away easily and leaves minimal residue on skin. Unlike raw coconut oil, its modified structure lacks the long oily chains that can clog pores. Most formulations use it in low amounts in rinse-off products such as shampoos or cleansers, further reducing any chance of buildup. For these reasons the ingredient earns a score at the bottom of the comedogenic scale.
Because of this very low rating it is generally suitable for people prone to acne or frequent breakouts.
Its mild positive charge allows it to bind lightly to hair yet it does not tend to linger on facial skin, so pore congestion is unlikely even with daily use.
Summary
Disodium Dicarboxyethyl Cocopropylenediamine acts as a gentle multitasker: it conditions hair by smoothing cuticles, lifts away dirt and oil as a mild cleanser and serves as a hydrotrope that keeps oily ingredients evenly mixed in water-based formulas. It achieves these roles thanks to its dual water-loving and oil-loving structure plus its slight positive charge.
While not a household name it is steadily gaining traction in sulfate-free shampoos, co-wash creams and micellar cleansers because it helps brands cut down on harsher surfactants without sacrificing performance.
Current safety reviews rate it as low risk for irritation or sensitization when used at normal cosmetic levels. Still, skin can react unpredictably so doing a small patch test with any new product is a smart habit.