What is sodium coco sulfate and where is it used?

Many different surfactants are used in cosmetics. Thanks to them, detergents are becoming more and more efficient and convenient to use. Although many people associate surfactants with aggressive chemicals, this does not have to be the case. One of the more commonly used additives is the moderately potent agent sodium coco sulfate . What is it and what is it used for?

Meet sodium coco sulfate (SCS) - natural SLS

The SCS compound is the sodium salt of fatty alcohol sulfate derived from coconut oil. SCS is an anionic surfactant.

Sodium coco sulfate is created by combining sulfur compounds (sulfuric acid (VI) or sulfur oxide (VI)) with alcohols based on natural coconut. The resulting mixture is then neutralized. Thanks to this, SCS has a much less irritating effect on the skin than, for example, the popular SLS or SLES. Sometimes you can also come across a comparison that SCS is "natural SLS". Cosmetologists note that it is equally effective, but at the same time less invasive.

In contrast to SLS, which is made from the fatty phase of coconut, which is standardized only for the presence of lauric acid, a much wider range of fatty substances is used in the production of sodium coco sulfate . Among them you will find e.g. acid:

• myristic,
• palmitic,
• caprylic,
• stearic,
• oleic,
• linoleic

It is thanks to the content of so many natural ingredients that SCS has a milder effect on the skin and causes much less irritation. Some of these substances (such as oleic and linoleic acids) are even used in creams that soothe irritations or cosmetics for children.

It is worth noting that SCS is obtained in a natural way (and can also be used in cosmetics marked as natural). SLS is of fully synthetic origin.

What properties does sodium coco sulfate have?

Sodium coco sulfate is added to cosmetics as a detergent or emulsifier. It has strong cleansing properties, facilitates the dissolution and removal of dirt. It also produces large amounts of foam with a stable consistency.

Interestingly, SCS is also used in hair shampoos. It has an antistatic effect, facilitates combing and prevents strands from tangling.

Where can you find the SCS?

• In hair cosmetics (shampoos, soaps, serums, conditioners).
• In bath preparations (gels, soaps).
• In shaving cosmetics (foams, shaving creams).

Unlike synthetic and highly concentrated detergents , sodium coco sulfate does not act as aggressively on the lipid barrier. As a result, after using cosmetics with SCS, the skin does not become dry and tense.

After using cleansing agents of natural origin, there is no need to intensively moisturize the skin with emollient lotions. This is a special group of cosmetics with a structure similar to the protective layer of the epidermis (containing mainly ceramides, urea and fatty acids).

Why are manufacturers willing to choose SCS as an ingredient in cosmetics?

Sodium coco sulfate is distinguished by a low price compared to other anionic surfactants. In this way, you can keep the price of the product low without affecting its quality.

This compound has also been defined by the Ecocert organization (an international entity that certifies, among others, cosmetics) as fully biodegradable. By choosing products from SCS, you know that you care about the environment.

Finally, SCS thickens perfectly and does not require the addition of a large amount of salt, which dries the skin.

Who should use sodium coco sulfate?

It has been scientifically proven that SCS is gentle on the skin. No worries, cosmetics with SCS in the composition can be used by pregnant and lactating women. This solution is also recommended for people whose skin is prone to irritation.

Cosmetics containing sodium coco sulfate can be a good alternative also for users who often struggle with light skin problems.

The quality and safety of SCS use is evidenced by the fact that the presence of the substance is approved in natural cosmetics and those intended for children. Other additives used in products for children are e.g. ROKAnol L7W or POLIkol 400 PEG8 .

However, when using cosmetics containing SCS, people who suffer from atopic dermatitis, severe dermatological allergies or are undergoing anti-acne treatments should be especially careful. In their case, a personalized selection of products may be more beneficial, and the use of detergents containing SCS (and even more so SLS or SLES!) should be consulted with a doctor.

How to safely choose cosmetics with SCS?

Dermatologists warn not to look at the composition of cosmetics only through the prism of the presence of one ingredient. It happens that products containing SCS cause irritation even in healthy people, but then the cause usually has to be sought elsewhere - in too high concentration of alcohol, fragrance carriers or stabilizers.

To be sure that detergents containing sodium coco sulfate are safe, bet on natural cosmetics. Always read the product label before adding it to your shopping cart. Cosmetics marked as organic may contain, among others:

• vegetable oils, fats and waxes;
• essential oils;
• herbal and flower extracts;
• natural dyes, emollients, preservatives and emulsifiers.

You will also often find SCS among the ingredients.

If you plan to start mass production of cosmetics, look for proven sources of high-quality ingredients. Check the offer of the Distripark chemical wholesaler and choose from dozens of different surfactants that you can adjust to your needs.

We meet the expectations of our customers by offering comprehensive solutions in the field of chemistry for the needs of the commercial industry, but also DIY manufacturing methods. If you have any questions or doubts about our offer, we are here to help.