Sodium Cocoyl Isethionate 250g

Sodium Cocoyl Isethionate (SCI) – Introduction

Sodium Cocoyl Isethionate (often abbreviated SCI) is a mild surfactant widely used in cleansing and personal care products such as shampoos, facial cleansers, body washes, and solid cleansing bars.

What It Is

Sodium Cocoyl Isethionate is a surfactant derived from coconut fatty acids combined with isethionic acid. Surfactants are ingredients that help remove dirt, oil, and impurities by allowing water to mix with oils so they can be rinsed away.

Key Characteristics

• Very mild cleanser compared to harsher sulfates
• Produces a rich, creamy foam
• Gentle on skin and hair
• Often used in sulfate-free formulations
• Works well in solid bars

Because of its gentle nature, SCI is frequently used in products designed for sensitive skin and baby care.

How It Works

As a surfactant, Sodium Cocoyl Isethionate has two parts:

• Hydrophilic (water-loving) head – binds with water
• Lipophilic (oil-loving) tail – attaches to oils and dirt

This structure allows it to lift oils and debris from skin or hair, enabling them to be rinsed away with water.

Common Applications

You’ll often find SCI in:

• Facial cleansers
• Shampoo bars
• Body wash and shower gels
• Baby cleansers
• Syndet soap bars
• Shaving creams

It is especially popular in solid shampoo and cleansing bars because it creates dense, stable foam while remaining gentle.

Benefits in Formulations

• Mild and low irritation potential
• Leaves skin feeling soft rather than stripped
• Compatible with many other cosmetic ingredients
• Helps create smooth, creamy lather