Characteristics
- INCI
- Coconut Acid
- CAS
-
61788-47-4
This is the substance number in the Chemical Abstracts Service registry. The CAS number uniquely identifies a substance regardless of language, trade name, or synonyms.
- EC
-
262-978-7
This is the substance number in the European chemical identification system (EC number), used in European regulatory databases including ECHA/CosIng.
- Functions
- cleansing, emollient, emulsifying, surfactant
Who it's for
Description
Coconut Acid is a mixture of fatty acids derived from coconut oil, usually used as a cleansing and formulation ingredient rather than a standalone “treatment” active. You’ll most often find it in soaps, facial cleansers, shampoos, and body washes, where it helps create foam, lift away oil and dirt, and give products a richer, creamier texture. Because it comes from coconut oil, it’s often grouped with naturally derived surfactants and emollient-supporting ingredients.
For skin and hair, coconut acid mainly works behind the scenes: it helps products cleanse effectively while contributing to a smoother, more cushioned feel. In hair care, it can support that clean, lathering wash experience without the squeaky finish some harsher cleansers leave behind. People who enjoy foaming cleansers or want a more substantial, creamy lather may appreciate it, especially in rinse-off formulas.
Caveats: coconut acid itself is not a moisturizer or treatment ingredient, and in some formulas it may feel a bit drying if the cleanser is already strong or used too often. Very sensitive or easily irritated skin may prefer gentler, low-foam products. As always, the overall formula matters more than any single ingredient.
Products with Coconut Acid (941 total)
Most often found in Dove products (36 items)
