Ingredient review
Disodium Dicarboxyethyl Cocopropylenediamine
INCI: DISODIUM DICARBOXYETHYL COCOPROPYLENEDIAMINE
A gentle, coconut-derived surfactant that cleanses effectively without stripping the skin barrier.
In plain English
This ingredient is a mild cleansing agent made from coconut oil. It helps remove dirt, oil, and makeup from your skin without leaving it feeling tight or dry. Unlike harsher soaps, it respects your skin's natural moisture balance.
Review score
Safety, usefulness, and evidence
Potentially useful with some tradeoffs
The evidence base is useful, but some claims depend heavily on the formula.
Risk flags are low for most users, though the finished product can still irritate.
- Source
- semi synthetic
- Evidence
- moderate
- Irritation
- low
- Clogging risk
- low
Quick decision guide
Useful, but context matters
Disodium Dicarboxyethyl Cocopropylenediamine 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 Disodium Dicarboxyethyl Cocopropylenediamine.
- 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
Disodium Dicarboxyethyl Cocopropylenediamine is a surfactant derived from coconut fatty acids. It belongs to a class of mild amphoteric surfactants that work well in both acidic and alkaline formulas.
How it works
It reduces the surface tension of water, allowing oils and dirt to be lifted away from the skin and rinsed off easily. Its amphoteric nature means it can adjust to the pH of your skin, making it less irritating than many other cleansers.
Pros
Very gentle on skin
Unlike sulfates, this surfactant cleanses without stripping natural oils, making it ideal for dry or sensitive skin types.
Coconut-derived
Sourced from renewable coconut oil, it is a more natural alternative to petroleum-based surfactants.
Cons and cautions
Limited heavy-duty cleansing
It may not fully remove heavy waterproof makeup or sunscreen on its own, often requiring a double-cleansing step.
Potential for rare irritation
While generally mild, a small number of users with very reactive skin may experience slight stinging or redness.
Best for
- People with dry or sensitive skin
- Those looking for a gentle daily cleanser
Use caution if
- Individuals with known coconut allergies (rare)
Usage tips
Safety summary
Disodium Dicarboxyethyl Cocopropylenediamine is considered safe for use in cosmetics at typical concentrations. It has a low irritation and comedogenic risk, making it suitable for most skin types.
Research notes
Research indicates that amphoteric surfactants like this one are among the mildest cleansing agents available, with minimal disruption to the skin barrier. However, individual sensitivity is always possible.
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 restrictions.
- Common uses
- Facial cleansers, Body washes, Shampoos, Baby care products
- Environmental note
- Derived from coconut oil, a renewable resource. Biodegradability is generally good, but always check the full formulation.
Good to know
- This ingredient is often combined with other mild surfactants to boost cleansing power while keeping the formula gentle.
- It is commonly found in baby shampoos and sensitive-skin products.
Common questions
What is Disodium Dicarboxyethyl Cocopropylenediamine in beauty products?
This ingredient is a mild cleansing agent made from coconut oil. It helps remove dirt, oil, and makeup from your skin without leaving it feeling tight or dry. Unlike harsher soaps, it respects your skin's natural moisture balance.
What does Disodium Dicarboxyethyl Cocopropylenediamine do in a beauty product?
It reduces the surface tension of water, allowing oils and dirt to be lifted away from the skin and rinsed off easily. Its amphoteric nature means it can adjust to the pH of your skin, making it less irritating than many other cleansers.
Is Disodium Dicarboxyethyl Cocopropylenediamine safe for most people?
Disodium Dicarboxyethyl Cocopropylenediamine is considered safe for use in cosmetics at typical concentrations. It has a low irritation and comedogenic risk, making it suitable for most skin types.
Who should be careful with Disodium Dicarboxyethyl Cocopropylenediamine?
Individuals with known coconut allergies (rare)
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.