Understanding Surfactants: Sodium Cocoyl Isethionate vs. Cocoyl Glutamic Acid

Let's clarify the differences between these gentle cleansing ingredients.

Does Sodium Cocoyl Isethionate Contain SLES?

No, Sodium Cocoyl Isethionate (SCI) and Sodium Lauroyl Methyl Isethionate (which is similar and often used in gentle formulations like the product IseFoam™) do not contain SLES (Sodium Laureth Sulfate). While both are anionic surfactants used for cleansing and foaming, they have different chemical structures. SCI and Sodium Lauroyl Methyl Isethionate are known for being milder alternatives to sulfates like SLES, making them suitable for sensitive skin and baby products.

Sodium Cocoyl Isethionate vs. Cocoyl Glutamic Acid 95%

Both Sodium Cocoyl Isethionate (or related Sodium Lauroyl Methyl Isethionate like IseFoam™) and Cocoyl Glutamic Acid (like the 95% granule product) are gentle, amino acid-derived anionic surfactants used in cleansing products.

Here's a comparison based on the product information:

• IseFoam™ (Sodium Lauroyl Methyl Isethionate):

  • Highly gentle detergent with good foam.
  • Comes in flake form.
  • Soluble in water.
  • Typical use rate: 1-15%.
  • Often used in body and hair cleansing products, including bath bombs.

• Cocoyl Glutamic Acid (Granule, 95%):

  • Detergent obtained from amino acids.
  • Highly gentle with good foam.
  • Comes in flake/granule form with >95% active matter.
  • Soluble in water.
  • Typical use rate: 5-30%.
  • Suitable for cleaning products in powder form (like face wash) or liquid form for body and hair.

In summary, while both are excellent gentle surfactants, they differ in their specific chemical structure (Isethionate vs. Glutamic Acid derivative), active matter concentration (for the 95% Cocoyl Glutamic Acid), and typical usage rates. Cocoyl Glutamic Acid in granule form is particularly highlighted as suitable for powder formulations.