Cocodimonium Hydroxypropyl Silk Amino Acids

What is Cocodimonium Hydroxypropyl Silk Amino Acids?

Cocodimonium Hydroxypropyl Silk Amino Acids originates from hydrolyzed silk fibroin, the protein extracted from silkworm cocoons, broken down into amino acid chains. It undergoes hydroxypropylation and quaternization with a coconut-derived alkyl group, creating a cationic (positively charged) conditioning agent. Primarily featured in hair care products such as conditioners, shampoos, and detanglers, it also appears in skin care items like moisturizers. This ingredient works by adhering to the negatively charged surfaces of hair cuticles and skin lipids through electrostatic attraction, forming a lightweight film. This reduces inter-fiber friction on hair, minimizes static buildup, and improves slip for easier combing. On skin, it supports a smoother texture by maintaining moisture balance and flexibility without heavy residue, leveraging its film-forming and humectant-like properties in rinse-off and leave-on formulas.

Comedogenic Rating 0/5 Low risk of clogging pores

EWG Safety Rating 1 View on EWG →

Roles in Formulation

This ingredient serves the following purposes in cosmetic formulations:

Antistatic agent

Reduces static electricity and flyaways by improving surface conductivity, enhancing hair manageability and smoothness in conditioners and styling products.

Hair conditioning

Improves softness, shine, and manageability by reducing friction and static; commonly achieved with cationic agents, silicones, oils, or conditioning polymers.

Skin conditioning agent

Maintains skin softness, smoothness, and flexibility.

Benefits

Reduces static electricity for smoother, more manageable hair.

Enhances hair softness, shine, and ease of styling.

Supports skin smoothness and flexibility in cosmetic products.

Who It's For

A quick guide for who this ingredient may suit (and who should be cautious).

Who May Benefit	Who Should Avoid
People with dry or frizzy hair seeking better manageability.	Those with allergies to silk-derived proteins.
Individuals wanting added shine and softness from conditioners.	People preferring fully vegan or animal-free ingredients.
Users of skin products aiming for improved texture.	Individuals sensitive to quaternary ammonium compounds.

Safety Notes

Considered low hazard based on safety assessments.
Non-comedogenic, unlikely to clog pores.

Frequently Asked Questions about Cocodimonium Hydroxypropyl Silk Amino Acids

What is Cocodimonium Hydroxypropyl Silk Amino Acids?

A modified silk amino acid with a cationic charge from coconut derivatives, used for conditioning hair and skin in cosmetics.

Is it safe for daily use?

Rated low hazard and non-comedogenic, suitable for most in standard formulations.

What products contain it?

Common in hair conditioners, shampoos, and some skin moisturizers.