Ingredient review
Ammonium Cocomonoglyceride Sulfate
INCI: Ammonium Cocomonoglyceride Sulfate
A gentle, coconut-derived surfactant that cleans effectively without stripping the skin.
In plain English
This ingredient is a mild soap-like molecule made from coconut oil. It helps water mix with dirt and oil so they can be rinsed away, but it's much less harsh than traditional sulfates like SLS. It's often used in 'gentle' or 'sulfate-free' cleansers because it cleans without leaving skin feeling tight or dry.
Quick decision guide
Useful, but context matters
Ammonium Cocomonoglyceride Sulfate is generally a lower-concern ingredient when the full formula suits your skin.
Plain-English read
Treat this as a practical screening step before you compare products that contain this ingredient.
- Step 1Start with the score, then check the irritation and clogging risk before judging Ammonium Cocomonoglyceride Sulfate.
- Step 2Use the "Best for" and "Use caution if" sections to match the ingredient to your skin, not just to a marketing claim.
- Step 3If a product stings, breaks you out, or worsens irritation, judge the finished formula and stop using it even if the ingredient scores well.
Score terms in plain English
Irritation risk
lowLess likely to sting, burn, or bother most users, though sensitive skin can still react.
Clogging risk
lowLess likely to feel heavy or contribute to clogged pores for most skin types.
Evidence level
moderateThere is useful support, but formula details and claim strength still matter.
What it is
Ammonium Cocomonoglyceride Sulfate is a semi-synthetic surfactant created by reacting coconut oil glycerides with ammonium sulfate. It belongs to the class of alkyl sulfates but is considered milder due to its larger molecular structure, which reduces penetration into the skin.
How it works
It works by reducing the surface tension between water and oil, allowing impurities and excess sebum to be emulsified and rinsed away. Its mildness comes from its high molecular weight and the presence of moisturizing glyceride residues, which help maintain the skin's natural barrier during cleansing.
Pros
Mild on skin
Its large molecular structure means it doesn't penetrate deeply, reducing irritation and making it suitable for sensitive skin types.
Coconut-derived
Sourced from renewable coconut oil, it is biodegradable and considered more environmentally friendly than petroleum-based surfactants.
Cons and cautions
Moderate cleansing power
It may not effectively remove heavy makeup or waterproof sunscreen, requiring a double-cleansing step for those products.
Potential for slight dryness
In high concentrations or for very dry skin, it can still strip some natural moisture, so it's best paired with moisturizing ingredients.
Best for
- People with normal to combination skin looking for a gentle daily cleanser
- Those with sensitive or reactive skin who want to avoid harsh sulfates
Use caution if
- Individuals with extremely dry or eczema-prone skin may still find it slightly drying; they might prefer a non-foaming cream cleanser
Usage tips
Safety summary
Considered safe for use in rinse-off cosmetics at typical concentrations. Low irritation and sensitization potential. Not known to be carcinogenic or toxic. Always patch test if you have very sensitive skin.
Research notes
Limited peer-reviewed studies specifically on this ingredient, but it is structurally similar to other mild alkyl sulfates. Safety assessments by cosmetic ingredient review panels have found it safe for its intended use. Most evidence comes from formulation science and dermatological experience.
Common label clues
- Typical concentration
- 1–10% in rinse-off products
- Regulatory status
- Approved for use in cosmetics in the EU, US, and other major markets. No specific concentration restrictions, but formulators typically keep it under 10% in rinse-off products.
- Common uses
- Facial cleansers, Body washes, Shampoos, Baby care products
- Environmental note
- Derived from coconut oil, a renewable resource. It is biodegradable and has a lower aquatic toxicity compared to traditional sulfates.
Good to know
- Often labeled as 'sulfate-free' because it is not sodium lauryl sulfate (SLS) or sodium laureth sulfate (SLES), but it is still a sulfate compound.
- It is commonly found in baby shampoos due to its mildness.
Common questions
What is Ammonium Cocomonoglyceride Sulfate in beauty products?
This ingredient is a mild soap-like molecule made from coconut oil. It helps water mix with dirt and oil so they can be rinsed away, but it's much less harsh than traditional sulfates like SLS. It's often used in 'gentle' or 'sulfate-free' cleansers because it cleans without leaving skin feeling tight or dry.
What does Ammonium Cocomonoglyceride Sulfate do in a beauty product?
It works by reducing the surface tension between water and oil, allowing impurities and excess sebum to be emulsified and rinsed away. Its mildness comes from its high molecular weight and the presence of moisturizing glyceride residues, which help maintain the skin's natural barrier during cleansing.
Is Ammonium Cocomonoglyceride Sulfate safe for most people?
Considered safe for use in rinse-off cosmetics at typical concentrations. Low irritation and sensitization potential. Not known to be carcinogenic or toxic. Always patch test if you have very sensitive skin.
Who should be careful with Ammonium Cocomonoglyceride Sulfate?
Individuals with extremely dry or eczema-prone skin may still find it slightly drying; they might prefer a non-foaming cream cleanser
Research sources
Ingredient reviews are educational and are not medical advice. Patch test new products and ask a licensed clinician about persistent irritation, allergies, pregnancy-specific questions, or diagnosed skin conditions.