Disodium cocoyl glutamate

Other names: Cocoyl glutamate disodium, L-Glutamic acid

Harm score: 2 (Derivatives of natural substances)

Disodium cocoyl glutamate, also known as disodium cocoyl glutamate or L-Glutamic acid, is an ingredient that can be found very often in cosmetic and care products. This glutamic acid ester is valued primarily for its ability to produce foam and act as an emulsifier - a substance that allows two otherwise immiscible ingredients, typically water and oil, to mix. In addition, it is also considered a mild but effective cleaning ingredient.

Disodium cocoyl glutamate is widely used in various types of products. It is often included in cosmetic cleaning products such as hand and body washes, shampoos, shower gels, as well as toothpastes. It can also be found in shaving products, liquid soaps and some types of make-up. Although it is a synthetic ingredient, it is considered safe and is approved for use in natural and organic cosmetics. However, despite its origins in coconut oil and glutamic acid, some people may become sensitive to disodium cocoyl glutamate, with skin irritation being the most common.