PEG-2 Cocamide

PEG / Ethoxylated

What is PEG-2 Cocamide?

PEG-2 Cocamide is a synthetic surfactant produced by ethoxylating cocamide, which comes from coconut-derived fatty acids, with two molecules of ethylene oxide. This process imparts water solubility and amphiphilic properties, making it ideal for personal care formulations. Primarily used in shampoos, body washes, facial cleansers, and some lotions, it functions by reducing surface tension at the interface between water, oil, and soil particles. This enables dirt and oils to be lifted and rinsed away during cleansing. As an emulsifier, it forms a protective film around oil droplets in water-based systems, promoting stability and smooth texture. Its foam-boosting capability generates voluminous, creamy lather that enhances the sensory experience of rinse-off products without harshness on skin.

Comedogenic Rating 0/5 Low risk of clogging pores
EWG Safety Rating 3 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.
Foam booster
Enhances foam volume and creaminess and can stabilize lather, improving sensory feel and perceived cleansing in shampoos and wash-off products.

Benefits

Provides effective cleansing by removing dirt and oils through reduced surface tension.

Stabilizes emulsions for consistent product texture in creams and cleansers.

Boosts rich, stable foam for an improved washing sensation in shampoos and washes.

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 seeking voluminous lather in daily cleansers and shampoos.
Those with sensitivity to ethoxylated ingredients.
Users of emulsions like lotions needing stable formulations.
People preferring completely natural or PEG-free products.
People with normal skin types preferring mild surfactant action.
Individuals prone to reactions from potential trace impurities in surfactants.

Safety Notes

  • Considered safe for use in rinse-off cosmetics by cosmetic safety reviews.
  • Low comedogenic potential, unlikely to clog pores.

Frequently Asked Questions about PEG-2 Cocamide

What is PEG-2 Cocamide made from?

It is created by adding ethylene oxide to cocamide from coconut fatty acids.

Is PEG-2 Cocamide comedogenic?

It has a comedogenic rating of 0, indicating low pore-clogging potential.

Can it be used in facial products?

Yes, commonly in facial cleansers for its mild cleansing and foaming properties.