What Is Potassium Cocoyl Hydrolyzed Soy Protein?
Potassium Cocoyl Hydrolyzed Soy Protein is a plant based ingredient made by joining two natural sources: coconut fatty acids and soy protein. Chemically it is the potassium salt of coco-acylated, hydrolyzed soy peptides. First the long protein chains in soy are broken down into smaller, water loving fragments through a process called hydrolysis. These fragments are then reacted with fatty acids obtained from coconut oil, creating a gentle surfactant with both oil attracting and water attracting parts. Finally the mixture is neutralized with potassium hydroxide which stabilizes it and improves its solubility.
Interest in mild, eco friendly surfactants grew in the late 1970s and early 1980s as formulators looked for alternatives to harsher sulfates. The combination of renewable soy and coconut fit that need and soon found a place in shampoos and body washes. Today Potassium Cocoyl Hydrolyzed Soy Protein is used in a wide range of rinse off and leave on products such as shampoos, conditioners, body washes, facial cleansers, shaving creams, baby washes, hand soaps and lightweight moisturizers.
Potassium Cocoyl Hydrolyzed Soy Protein’s Cosmetic Benefits/Uses
This multitasking ingredient supports several aspects of a formula
- Hair conditioning – the soy peptides bind to damaged sites on the hair shaft helping smooth the cuticle and reduce static which can lead to softer, shinier strands that are easier to comb
- Skin conditioning – the protein fragments form a light film on the skin that can hold water and improve surface feel giving skin a soft, hydrated finish without heaviness
- Cleansing – the coco portion acts as a mild surfactant that lifts away dirt and oil while producing a gentle lather making it suitable for sensitive skin and daily use
Who Can Use Potassium Cocoyl Hydrolyzed Soy Protein
Because it is both mild and moisturizing, Potassium Cocoyl Hydrolyzed Soy Protein suits most skin types including normal, dry, oily and combination skin. Sensitive skin also tends to tolerate it well thanks to its low irritation potential, though anyone with a known soy or coconut allergy should exercise caution. The ingredient is entirely plant derived so it fits vegan and vegetarian lifestyles without reservation. Current cosmetic safety data shows no reason pregnant or breastfeeding women cannot use products that contain this ingredient, but this is not medical advice and those individuals should check with a healthcare professional before starting any new product. Potassium Cocoyl Hydrolyzed Soy Protein does not increase photosensitivity and can be used day or night. It is color safe for hair care and generally plays nicely with other common cosmetic ingredients.
Potential Side Effects/Adverse Reactions
Responses to topical Potassium Cocoyl Hydrolyzed Soy Protein differ from person to person. The following points cover potential side effects that could occur even though they are uncommon when the ingredient is properly formulated and used as directed.
- Allergic contact dermatitis: rare but possible in individuals allergic to soy or coconut derivatives
- Mild skin or scalp irritation: stinging or redness may occur if the product contains a high concentration or is used on already compromised skin
- Eye irritation: can cause temporary tearing or discomfort if the cleanser gets into the eyes
- Product buildup on hair: the protein film may feel heavy on very fine or low porosity hair if not rinsed thoroughly
If any discomfort, rash or other negative reaction develops discontinue use and consult a medical professional
Comedogenic Rating
Rating: 1 out of 5
Potassium Cocoyl Hydrolyzed Soy Protein is highly water soluble so it rinses away rather than sitting in pores. Although it contains coconut derived fatty acids they are linked to soy peptides and converted into a potassium salt which lowers their clogging potential. This combination keeps the ingredient at the low end of the scale.
Suitable for people who are prone to acne or breakouts.
Because it is most often used in rinse off cleansers and shampoos any residual film left on the skin is minimal further reducing risk of congestion.
Summary
Potassium Cocoyl Hydrolyzed Soy Protein brings three key benefits to cosmetics: hair conditioning, skin conditioning and gentle cleansing. The hydrolyzed soy peptides form a breathable film that smooths hair cuticles and helps skin hold moisture while the coconut based portion acts as a mild surfactant that lifts away dirt and oil without harsh stripping.
Though not yet a household name it is steadily gaining popularity in sulfate free shampoos, baby washes and sensitive skin cleansers as brands search for plant sourced alternatives to stronger detergents.
Overall safety data is favorable with low irritation and allergy rates when used as directed. As with any new ingredient a quick patch test on a small area is a smart precaution before adding a product containing Potassium Cocoyl Hydrolyzed Soy Protein to your routine.