Sodium Cocoglucoside Tartrate

What is Sodium Cocoglucoside Tartrate?

Sodium Cocoglucoside Tartrate is a mild anionic surfactant derived from natural sources: coconut-derived fatty alcohols combined with glucose to form cocoglucoside, then esterified with tartaric acid and neutralized with sodium hydroxide. It belongs to the alkyl polyglucoside family, known for biodegradability and eco-friendliness. Commonly found in rinse-off products like shampoos, body washes, facial cleansers, and baby care formulations. In cosmetics, it functions by lowering surface tension between water and oils, enabling effective dirt and oil removal through micelle formation. It also stabilizes emulsions by creating a protective film at oil-water interfaces, promoting consistent texture in creamy cleansers. Its gentle profile makes it suitable for frequent-use products, supporting foaming 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.
Cleansing agent
Removes dirt, oil, and impurities by lowering surface tension and forming micelles, enabling soils to be lifted and rinsed away from skin, hair, or teeth.
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

Provides soft, non-stripping cleanse for skin and hair.

Supports stable emulsions in lotions and washes.

Biodegradable option for eco-friendly formulations.

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 sensitive skin seeking mild cleansers.
Individuals with rare allergies to coconut derivatives.
Those preferring natural-derived surfactants in daily routines.
People sensitive to tartaric acid-related compounds.
Users of baby or gentle shampoos and body washes.
Those preferring fully non-surfactant based products.

Safety Notes

  • Rated low hazard by safety assessments for cosmetic use.
  • Non-comedogenic, unlikely to clog pores.

Frequently Asked Questions about Sodium Cocoglucoside Tartrate

What is Sodium Cocoglucoside Tartrate made from?

It's derived from coconut fatty alcohols, glucose, and tartaric acid, forming a mild surfactant salt.

Is it suitable for sensitive skin?

Yes, its low hazard rating and gentle action make it appropriate for sensitive skin in cleansers.

Does it cause breakouts?

No, it has a comedogenic rating of 0, meaning it does not clog pores.