PEG-6 Cocamide

What is PEG-6 Cocamide?

PEG-6 Cocamide is a synthetic surfactant created by ethoxylating cocamide, which comes from coconut fatty acids, using six ethylene oxide units. This process yields a water-soluble compound with enhanced mildness and functionality. Primarily used in rinse-off products like shampoos, conditioners, body washes, and facial cleansers, it reduces surface tension to lift dirt, excess oils, and impurities from skin and hair. It generates stable foam for a satisfying cleansing experience and acts as an emulsifier by forming a barrier between oil and water phases, preventing separation in formulations. This results in consistent textures for lotions and micellar waters. Its derivation balances cleansing power with gentleness, supporting everyday personal care routines without harsh stripping.

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.

Benefits

Supports effective yet gentle cleansing by removing impurities while maintaining skin moisture balance.

Promotes rich, stable foam in shampoos and washes for improved user experience.

Helps create uniform emulsions in creams and cleansers for smooth application.

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 mild foaming cleansers for daily use.
Those sensitive to ethoxylated ingredients or PEG compounds.
People with normal or oily skin needing effective yet non-drying surfactants.
People preferring fully natural, non-synthetic surfactants.
Users of shampoos and body washes preferring stable, rinse-off formulas.
Individuals concerned about potential impurities in cosmetic production.

Safety Notes

  • Considered moderate concern overall, with low comedogenic potential.
  • Opt for products from manufacturers minimizing manufacturing contaminants.

Frequently Asked Questions about PEG-6 Cocamide

What is PEG-6 Cocamide used for?

It serves as a surfactant for cleansing and foaming, and an emulsifier for stabilizing oil-water mixtures in rinse-off products.

Is PEG-6 Cocamide comedogenic?

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

How does it function in products?

Lowers surface tension for dirt removal and foam creation, while enabling stable blends in emulsions.