What Is Sodium Bis-Hydroxyethylglycinate Coco-Glucosides Crosspolymer?
Sodium Bis-Hydroxyethylglycinate Coco-Glucosides Crosspolymer is a plant-derived polymer created from coconut-based sugars known as coco-glucosides. Chemists link these gentle cleansers together with small helper molecules, then “cap” the chain with a mild amino alcohol and a pinch of sodium to lock everything in place. The result is a water-soluble network that behaves like a silky gel.
The drive to make washes and shampoos milder sparked its development in the early 2000s. Formulators wanted a backbone ingredient that boosted foam without stripping skin or hair. By crosslinking coco-glucosides, they kept the natural feel of coconut sugars but gained better texture and stability, so the polymer quickly found a spot in sulfate-free and baby-friendly products.
Production starts with coco-glucoside, a surfactant made when glucose is blended with coconut alcohols. It is reacted with 1,3-dichloro-2-propanol to form tiny bridges between the sugar units. Next, 1-(bis(2-hydroxyethyl)amino)-3-chloro-2-propanol adds moisture-loving side arms. Finally, sodium monochloroacetate introduces the sodium piece that helps the polymer stay dispersed in water.
You will spot Sodium Bis-Hydroxyethylglycinate Coco-Glucosides Crosspolymer in sulfate-free shampoos, creamy facial cleansers, body washes, micellar waters, baby baths, low-poo hair products, foaming face masks and some lightweight conditioning sprays.
Sodium Bis-Hydroxyethylglycinate Coco-Glucosides Crosspolymer’s Cosmetic Benefits/Uses
In formulas this multitasker helps products clean gently while feeling rich and cushiony.
- Cleansing – Lifts away dirt oil and makeup without harshness making it ideal for sensitive skin and daily use
- Hair Conditioning – Leaves a light film on strands that smooths cuticles reduces static and makes detangling easier
- Foam Boosting – Builds a dense creamy lather so washes feel luxurious even when they are sulfate free
Who Can Use Sodium Bis-Hydroxyethylglycinate Coco-Glucosides Crosspolymer
This ingredient suits most skin types including normal, dry, oily and combination because it cleans without stripping natural moisture. Sensitive skin generally tolerates it well thanks to its mild coconut sugar base, though anyone with a known allergy to coconut-derived surfactants should avoid it.
It is plant derived and contains no animal by-products so it is appropriate for vegans and vegetarians.
No specific data link this polymer to risks in pregnancy or breastfeeding. It stays on the skin or hair surface and is not known to penetrate deeply. Still, this is not medical advice and anyone who is pregnant or nursing should ask a doctor before using new personal care products.
The polymer does not increase photosensitivity, so it will not make skin more prone to sunburn.
Because it rinses away easily it is also compatible with color-treated hair, curly routines and children’s bath products.
Potential Side Effects/Adverse Reactions
Side effects from topical use vary from person to person. The points below list potential reactions, but they are uncommon when the ingredient is properly formulated in a finished product.
- Mild skin redness or stinging in individuals highly sensitive to surfactants
- Eye irritation if the cleanser or shampoo accidentally enters the eyes
- Allergic contact dermatitis in people allergic to coconut or glucose-based surfactants, presenting as itching or small bumps
- Temporary heaviness on very fine hair if overused, due to its light conditioning film
If any irritation or unexpected reaction occurs discontinue use and consult a healthcare professional.
Comedogenic Rating
Rating: 0 / 5
Sodium Bis-Hydroxyethylglycinate Coco-Glucosides Crosspolymer is a large water-soluble molecule that does not linger on the skin or sink into pores. It rinses away with water, leaves no oily residue and lacks fatty or waxy components that typically contribute to clogged pores. Because of these properties it is considered non-comedogenic.
In practical terms this ingredient is suitable for people prone to acne or frequent breakouts.
No data suggest it affects sebum production or encourages bacterial growth, so the zero rating is unlikely to change even at higher use levels inside a formula.
Summary
Sodium Bis-Hydroxyethylglycinate Coco-Glucosides Crosspolymer is a coconut-derived polymer that cleanses, conditions hair and boosts foam all in one. Its sugar-based backbone lifts away dirt while the crosslinked structure creates a cushiony lather. A light film remains on hair strands after rinsing to smooth cuticles and tame static, yet the polymer stays weightless and easy to wash out.
It is a quiet workhorse rather than a headline ingredient, showing up most often in sulfate-free shampoos baby washes and gentle facial cleansers where formulators need extra creaminess without harshness.
Safety profiles rate it as low-risk with rare reports of irritation and no comedogenic concerns. Still every skin is unique so it is wise to patch test any new product that features this polymer before full use.