What is "SODIUM COCETH SULFATE" and what does it do?
Role: AGGRESSIVE SURFACTANT
Family: AGGRESSIVE SURFACTANT
Comedogenic index: 0
Sodium Coco Sulfate (SCS) has emerged on the organic cosmetics landscape as a natural option, moving away from reputedly irritating sulfates such as Sodium Laureth Sulfate and Sodium Lauryl Sulfate. This rapid adoption is due to its seductive characteristics: a generous lather, a smoothing effect on hair and a moderate production cost.
It is derived from coconut oil fatty acids, unlike other sulfates which are derived from palm oil. In technical terms, SCS belongs to the category of anionic surfactants, recognized for their ability to produce abundant foam and easy rinsing. However, they are also noted for being the most irritating of all surfactants.
Sodium Coco Sulfate vs Traditional Sulfates
Although Sodium Coco Sulfate presents itself as a gentler alternative, it's still a sulfate. In fact, its irritation level lies somewhere between traditional sulfates, making it slightly less irritating than Sodium Laureth Sulfate, but still potentially problematic for some users.
The main distinction between SCS and traditional sulfates lies in the origin of their raw materials. While Sodium Coco Sulfate is derived from coconut oil, other sulfates such as Sodium Laureth Sulfate are based on lauric acid. Although SCS is less detergent, its "sulfate" base can still be aggressive to certain skin and hair types.
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