Glycereth-2 Cocoate

What is Glycereth-2 Cocoate?

Glycereth-2 Cocoate is a chemically modified ingredient originating from glycerin, a simple polyol from plant or animal sources, combined with fatty acids extracted from coconut oil. The glycerin first reacts with ethylene oxide to form the ethoxylated glycereth-2, then esterifies with coconut-derived acids, yielding a pale yellow, viscous liquid soluble in water. This structure gives it amphiphilic properties—one end loves water, the other oils—making it ideal for personal care products like shampoos, shower gels, facial cleansers, and lotions. In formulations, it acts by lowering surface tension to lift dirt and oils during washing, while its emulsifying action forms protective films at oil-water interfaces, preventing separation and ensuring creamy consistencies. Its mild profile supports everyday use in rinse-off and leave-on items without harshness.

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

Gentle surface tension reduction for effective yet non-stripping cleansing.

Supports emulsion stability for smooth, consistent product textures.

Minimal pore-clogging potential in cleansing and moisturizing formulas.

Who It's For

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

Who May Benefit Who Should Avoid
Users preferring mild surfactants in daily cleansers.
People with allergies to coconut-derived components.
Individuals with non-comedogenic needs for face and body products.
Individuals sensitive to ethoxylated compounds.
Those formulating or using stable lotion and gel textures.
Those preferring completely non-surfactant based products.

Safety Notes

  • Considered low hazard in cosmetic concentrations by safety assessments.
  • Displays low comedogenic and irritation potential in typical uses.

Frequently Asked Questions about Glycereth-2 Cocoate

What is Glycereth-2 Cocoate made from?

Glycerin ethoxylated and esterified with coconut fatty acids, creating a gentle cosmetic surfactant.

Is it safe for sensitive skin?

Safety reviews indicate low irritation risk at standard use levels.

What products contain it?

Common in shampoos, body washes, cleansers, and emulsified lotions.