Coco Glucoside

What is it?

Coco Glucoside is a gentle non-ionic surfactant made from coconut oil and sugar.

INCI

Coco Glucoside

Appearance

Semi-viscous yellowish liquid

Usage rate

The CIR has not noted a maximum usage rate. Let the desired total active surfactant matter of your end product be your guide.

Texture

Slippery, detergenty

Scent

Characteristically detergenty

Active Surfactant Matter

55%

pH

11.5–12.5

Charge

Non-ionic

Solubility

Water

Why do we use it in formulations?

Coco glucoside can be a good primary or secondary surfactant, contributing foaming/cleansing to an end product.

Do you need it?

No

Refined or unrefined?

Coco glucoside only exists as a refined product.

Strengths

Coco glucoside is usually a fairly easy to source “natural” surfactant.

Weaknesses

It has a fairly high pH and is a poor solubilizer; I prefer Caprylyl/Capryl Glucoside.

Alternatives & Substitutions

I tend to prefer Caprylyl/Capryl Glucoside in any recipe that calls for coco glucoside.

How to Work with It

Include it in the water phase of your formulations; it can be hot or cold processed.

Storage & Shelf Life

Stored somewhere cool, dark, and dry, coco glucoside should last at least two years.

Tips, Tricks, and Quirks

Realize Beauty has a great article on glucosides that’s worth a read!

Recommended starter amount

250mL (8fl oz) or less

Where to Buy it

 Buy it from an online DIY ingredient supplier.

Want to compare different surfactants?

Check out my super useful surfactants table!

Some Formulations that Use Coco Glucoside

Originally published on February 7, 2019