Sodium Cocoyl Hydrolyzed Pea Protein: 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 30, 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 Sodium Cocoyl Hydrolyzed Pea Protein?

Sodium Cocoyl Hydrolyzed Pea Protein is a plant based surfactant created by linking fatty acids from coconut with broken-down pea protein then converting the resulting compound into its sodium salt. The coconut portion supplies lauric and other medium-chain fatty acids valued for their cleansing power while the pea protein adds small peptides that improve skin feel. Interest in combining these two renewable resources grew in the early 2010s as brands looked for mild sulfate-free options that still lather well. The ingredient is manufactured through a two-step process: first the pea protein is enzymatically hydrolyzed into shorter chains, next the coconut fatty acid chloride is reacted with the hydrolyzed protein to form a condensate that is finally neutralized with sodium hydroxide and purified into a pumpable liquid.

Its gentle nature and rich foam have made it popular in sulfate-free shampoos, facial cleansers, body washes, micellar waters, baby washes, bubble baths, foaming masks, shaving creams and even lightweight foaming moisturizers. Formulators appreciate that it boosts foam without stripping moisture which lets them create products suitable for sensitive or dry skin types.

Sodium Cocoyl Hydrolyzed Pea Protein’s Cosmetic Benefits/Uses

This multifunctional ingredient can improve both user experience and formula stability.

  • Cleansing: Lifts away dirt, oil and sweat while remaining mild so skin and hair feel clean yet comfortable
  • Foam Boosting: Creates dense creamy bubbles that make products feel luxurious and rinse easily helping consumers judge how much product to use
  • Hydrotrope: Helps keep oils fragrances and other hard-to-dissolve ingredients evenly dispersed which reduces cloudiness and prevents separation in clear gels and liquids

Who Can Use Sodium Cocoyl Hydrolyzed Pea Protein

Sodium Cocoyl Hydrolyzed Pea Protein is considered gentle enough for most skin types including sensitive, dry, oily and combination skin because it cleans without aggressively stripping the skin’s natural oils. People with a known allergy to coconut or legumes should proceed with caution since the ingredient is sourced from both.

The raw materials come from coconut and peas, so no animal-derived substances are involved. That makes the ingredient suitable for vegans and vegetarians who prefer plant-based personal care options.

Current research has not flagged any specific risks for women who are pregnant or breastfeeding when this ingredient is used topically and rinsed off, but this is not medical advice. Expectant or nursing mothers should show any new skincare product to their doctor to be on the safe side.

Sodium Cocoyl Hydrolyzed Pea Protein does not increase photosensitivity and there are no special sun-care precautions tied to its use.

Potential Side Effects/Adverse Reactions

Responses to topical ingredients vary from person to person. The points below list potential side effects that could occur, though most users will not experience them when the ingredient is properly formulated and used as directed.

  • Mild skin irritation such as redness or itching, usually linked to overuse or very sensitive skin
  • Allergic contact dermatitis in individuals allergic to coconut, peas or other legumes
  • Eye stinging if the product accidentally enters the eyes before rinsing
  • Dryness or tightness if used in a highly concentrated leave-on formula rather than a rinse-off cleanser

If any unwanted reaction develops stop using the product and seek advice from a qualified health professional.

Comedogenic Rating

Rating: 1/5

Sodium Cocoyl Hydrolyzed Pea Protein is highly water soluble and designed to rinse off easily, so it spends little time sitting in pores. Although it contains fatty acids from coconut they are chemically bound to the peptide portion, which keeps the molecule surface active rather than oily and prevents it from behaving like a pore-blocking oil. For these reasons it is unlikely to trigger blackheads or whiteheads in most users. Acne-prone individuals generally tolerate it well, especially in rinse-off products.

As with any surfactant the overall formula matters. A cleanser packed with heavy oils or waxes could still feel greasy despite the presence of this mild surfactant, so always consider the full ingredient list when evaluating breakout risk.

Summary

Sodium Cocoyl Hydrolyzed Pea Protein acts as a gentle cleanser, a foam booster and a hydrotrope. The coconut-derived fatty acids latch onto dirt and oil so they lift away with water, while the short pea protein chains stabilize rich bubbles for a pleasant lather. Its hydrotropic action helps fragrances and other tricky ingredients stay evenly mixed which keeps clear gels crystal clear.

The ingredient has become popular in modern sulfate-free shampoos, facial washes and baby bath products because it offers a balance of mildness and luxurious foam that many older surfactants could not deliver. Although not as ubiquitous as classic surfactants like SLS its use has grown steadily as brands look for plant-based alternatives.

Overall safety data are reassuring. Reported reactions are rare and typically limited to people with coconut or legume allergies. Still it is wise to perform a quick patch test whenever you try a new product so you can be confident your skin will respond well.

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