Ingredient review
Sodium Bis-Hydroxyethylglycinate Coco-Glucosides Crosspolymer
INCI: Sodium Bis-Hydroxyethylglycinate Coco-Glucosides Crosspolymer
A mild, plant-derived cleansing polymer that helps create a rich lather while being gentle on skin.
In plain English
This ingredient is a clever molecule made from coconut sugar and a natural amino acid-like compound. It acts as a gentle cleanser and thickener in products like face washes and shampoos. Unlike harsher detergents, it cleans without stripping your skin's natural moisture barrier, making it a favorite in sensitive-skin formulas.
Review score
Safety, usefulness, and evidence
Strong fit for many routines
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
Easy yes for most routines
Sodium Bis-Hydroxyethylglycinate Coco-Glucosides Crosspolymer 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 Sodium Bis-Hydroxyethylglycinate Coco-Glucosides Crosspolymer.
- 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
A semi-synthetic polymer created by chemically linking a modified amino acid (bis-hydroxyethylglycinate) with a natural sugar-based surfactant (coco-glucosides). The result is a large, mild molecule that helps cleanse and thicken products.
How it works
In a formula, this crosspolymer helps stabilize the product's texture and boost foam. Its large molecular structure makes it too big to penetrate deeply into the skin, so it stays on the surface to gently lift dirt and oil. It also helps other cleansing ingredients stay mild by reducing their irritation potential.
Pros
Exceptionally gentle
Its large molecular structure means it stays on the skin's surface, removing dirt without disrupting the protective barrier. This makes it ideal for sensitive or reactive skin.
Eco-friendly profile
Made from natural sugars and amino acids, it is biodegradable and has a lower environmental impact compared to many petroleum-based cleansing agents.
Cons and cautions
Milder cleansing power
Because it is so gentle, it may not fully remove heavy makeup or waterproof sunscreen on its own. You might need a double-cleansing routine.
Higher cost
The production process is more complex than for basic surfactants, so products containing this ingredient often come with a higher price tag.
Best for
- People with sensitive or dry skin looking for a mild cleanser
- Anyone who prefers plant-based, biodegradable ingredients
Use caution if
- Those who need a very strong cleanser for heavy oil or waterproof makeup
Usage tips
Safety summary
Considered very safe for cosmetic use. It is non-irritating, non-sensitizing, and not known to clog pores. No significant safety concerns have been reported in the scientific literature.
Research notes
While specific studies on this crosspolymer are limited, its components (coco-glucosides and amino acid derivatives) have a strong safety record. The large molecular structure supports its mildness profile.
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, Makeup removers
- Environmental note
- Derived from renewable plant sources (coconut and corn) and is readily biodegradable, making it a more sustainable choice.
Good to know
- This ingredient is often listed near the middle or end of an ingredient list because it is used at lower concentrations.
- It pairs well with other mild surfactants like cocamidopropyl betaine to boost foam without increasing irritation.
Common questions
What is Sodium Bis-Hydroxyethylglycinate Coco-Glucosides Crosspolymer in beauty products?
This ingredient is a clever molecule made from coconut sugar and a natural amino acid-like compound. It acts as a gentle cleanser and thickener in products like face washes and shampoos. Unlike harsher detergents, it cleans without stripping your skin's natural moisture barrier, making it a favorite in sensitive-skin formulas.
What does Sodium Bis-Hydroxyethylglycinate Coco-Glucosides Crosspolymer do in a beauty product?
In a formula, this crosspolymer helps stabilize the product's texture and boost foam. Its large molecular structure makes it too big to penetrate deeply into the skin, so it stays on the surface to gently lift dirt and oil. It also helps other cleansing ingredients stay mild by reducing their irritation potential.
Is Sodium Bis-Hydroxyethylglycinate Coco-Glucosides Crosspolymer safe for most people?
Considered very safe for cosmetic use. It is non-irritating, non-sensitizing, and not known to clog pores. No significant safety concerns have been reported in the scientific literature.
Who should be careful with Sodium Bis-Hydroxyethylglycinate Coco-Glucosides Crosspolymer?
Those who need a very strong cleanser for heavy oil or waterproof makeup
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.