Anionic surfactant from coconut feedstock with zinc as the counter-ion. Cleanses and foams, milder than plain lauryl sulfate thanks to ethoxylation. Sits in the cleansing base of gels and shampoos. No standalone skin effects, pregnancy-safe.
Topical application
BLimited evidence. One RCT or several controlled studies with limitations.
Functional anionic surfactant. Milder than SLS due to ethoxylation. No standalone skin effects; zinc serves as a counter-ion, not a therapeutic form.
Zinc Coceth Sulfate is an anionic surfactant. The base comes from coconut fatty alcohols that are ethoxylated and sulfated, with zinc rather than sodium or ammonium as the counter-ion. INCI: Zinc Coceth Sulfate. In a formula it works as a cleansing and foaming agent. The ethoxylate segment makes the molecule milder than sodium lauryl sulfate (SLS): it strips less and irritates less at the same concentration. It appears in face washes, shampoos, and body products, usually paired with amphoteric co-surfactants. Use levels depend on the product format. Pregnancy safety. The product rinses off, skin contact is brief, and systemic absorption through intact skin is negligible. No teratogenicity data of concern. It can be used during pregnancy and lactation. Tolerance. Irritation potential is low to moderate and depends on concentration and contact time. Frequent washing with strong anionic surfactants disrupts the barrier in dry and sensitive skin, so those types should judge the mildness of the whole cleansing base rather than one ingredient. The zinc in the name does not make the ingredient therapeutic: it is a counter-ion, not an active zinc form for sebum control. The substance has no proven standalone effects; it is a working cleansing agent in the formula.
Irritation potential
MediumAllergen risk
LowPregnancy
SafeSuitable for
Use with caution
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Zinc Coceth Sulfate is considered safe during pregnancy at typical cosmetic concentrations. Systemic absorption through the skin is minimal.
Zinc Coceth Sulfate suits: normal, oily, combination. Use with caution in: dry, sensitive.
Zinc Coceth Sulfate has moderate irritation potential. Sensitive skin may show a transient reaction that usually settles with adaptation.
Anionic surfactant from coconut feedstock with zinc as the counter-ion.
The INCI name is Zinc Coceth Sulfate. It may also appear as: Цинк коцет сульфат.
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