Glycereth-17 Cocoate

What is Glycereth-17 Cocoate?

Glycereth-17 Cocoate is a non-ionic surfactant produced by reacting glycerin with 17 units of ethylene oxide, followed by esterification with fatty acids derived from coconut oil. This process yields a molecule with both water-loving and oil-loving properties, making it highly effective in personal care formulations. Primarily found in shampoos, body washes, facial cleansers, and moisturizers, it functions by lowering surface tension to facilitate dirt removal, generate rich foam, and disperse oils effectively during rinsing. In emulsions, it bridges oil and water phases, creating a stable interfacial film that maintains product consistency and prevents phase separation. Its amphiphilic structure supports mild cleansing without overly disrupting the skin's lipid barrier, positioning it as a versatile component in daily hygiene and skincare items.

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:

Surfactant
Lowers surface tension to enable cleansing, emulsifying, and foaming; central to shampoos, body washes, and many emulsions and micellar systems.
Emulsifying agent
Enables stable mixing of oil and water phases by forming an interfacial film, helping create lotions, creams, and cleansers with consistent texture.

Benefits

Delivers soft lather and efficient cleansing in washes and shampoos.

Stabilizes lotions and creams for even texture and prolonged shelf life.

Supports non-comedogenic formulations ideal for clearer skin appearance.

Who It's For

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

Who May Benefit Who Should Avoid
Individuals with sensitive skin needing gentle surfactants.
Those allergic to coconut-derived ingredients.
Users of foaming cleansers and shampoos for daily routines.
People sensitive to polyethylene glycol ethers.
People seeking stable, coconut-derived emulsifiers in moisturizers.
Individuals preferring non-ethoxylated surfactants.

Safety Notes

  • Considered low hazard in cosmetic concentrations by safety reviews.
  • Non-comedogenic with minimal pore-clogging potential.

Frequently Asked Questions about Glycereth-17 Cocoate

What is Glycereth-17 Cocoate used for?

It acts as a surfactant for foaming cleansers and an emulsifier for stable lotions and creams.

Is Glycereth-17 Cocoate comedogenic?

It has a comedogenic rating of 0, indicating low likelihood of clogging pores.

How safe is Glycereth-17 Cocoate in skincare?

Rated low hazard overall, suitable for most cosmetic products when used as directed.