Ingredient review
TEA-Cocoyl Glutaminate
INCI: TEA-COCOYL GLUTAMINATE
A gentle, amino-acid-based surfactant that cleanses effectively while respecting the skin barrier — ideal for sensitive or dry skin.
In plain English
This ingredient is a mild cleansing agent made from coconut oil fatty acids and an amino acid (glutamic acid). It helps remove dirt, oil, and makeup without stripping the skin's natural moisture barrier. Unlike harsh soaps, it leaves skin feeling soft and comfortable, not tight or dry.
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
TEA-Cocoyl Glutaminate 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 TEA-Cocoyl Glutaminate.
- 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
TEA-Cocoyl Glutaminate is a surfactant created by combining fatty acids from coconut oil with glutamic acid (an amino acid) and triethanolamine. It belongs to the family of amino acid surfactants, known for their gentle cleansing properties and compatibility with sensitive skin.
How it works
In a cosmetic product, this molecule works by reducing the surface tension between water and oil, allowing impurities to be lifted away and rinsed off. Its structure is large and mild, so it interacts with the skin's outer layer without disrupting the lipid barrier or causing irritation.
Pros
Ultra-gentle on skin
Its large molecular structure means it cleans without penetrating or irritating the skin barrier, making it ideal for daily use on sensitive or compromised skin.
Maintains moisture
Unlike sulfates, this surfactant does not strip natural oils, so skin stays hydrated and comfortable after washing.
Cons and cautions
Lower foam volume
It produces a creamy, low-lather foam that some users accustomed to bubbly cleansers may find less satisfying.
Limited heavy-duty cleansing
On its own, it may struggle to remove stubborn waterproof makeup or heavy sunscreen, often requiring a double-cleanse step.
Best for
- People with sensitive, dry, or reactive skin
- Those looking for a sulfate-free cleanser
- Anyone wanting a gentle daily face wash
Use caution if
- Individuals with known allergy to coconut-derived ingredients (rare)
Usage tips
Safety summary
TEA-Cocoyl Glutaminate is considered safe for use in cosmetics at typical concentrations. It has a low irritation and comedogenic risk, making it suitable for sensitive skin. As with any ingredient, patch testing is recommended for those with known sensitivities to coconut derivatives.
Research notes
Amino acid surfactants like TEA-Cocoyl Glutaminate are well-documented in cosmetic science for their mildness and skin compatibility. While specific studies on this exact compound are limited, the broader class of glutaminate surfactants is supported by dermatological research showing reduced irritation compared to traditional sulfates.
Common label clues
- Typical concentration
- 1–15% in rinse-off products; lower in leave-on formulas
- Regulatory status
- Approved for use in cosmetics globally. In the EU, it is listed in the CosIng database as a surfactant and cleansing agent. No specific concentration restrictions are imposed, but formulators follow good manufacturing practices.
- Common uses
- Facial cleansers, Body washes, Shampoos, Micellar waters
- Environmental note
- Derived from renewable coconut oil and amino acids, this surfactant is biodegradable and has a lower environmental impact compared to petroleum-based cleansers.
Good to know
- TEA-Cocoyl Glutaminate is often combined with other mild surfactants to improve foam and cleansing power.
- It is considered biodegradable and more environmentally friendly than many traditional surfactants.
Common questions
What is TEA-Cocoyl Glutaminate in beauty products?
This ingredient is a mild cleansing agent made from coconut oil fatty acids and an amino acid (glutamic acid). It helps remove dirt, oil, and makeup without stripping the skin's natural moisture barrier. Unlike harsh soaps, it leaves skin feeling soft and comfortable, not tight or dry.
What does TEA-Cocoyl Glutaminate do in a beauty product?
In a cosmetic product, this molecule works by reducing the surface tension between water and oil, allowing impurities to be lifted away and rinsed off. Its structure is large and mild, so it interacts with the skin's outer layer without disrupting the lipid barrier or causing irritation.
Is TEA-Cocoyl Glutaminate safe for most people?
TEA-Cocoyl Glutaminate is considered safe for use in cosmetics at typical concentrations. It has a low irritation and comedogenic risk, making it suitable for sensitive skin. As with any ingredient, patch testing is recommended for those with known sensitivities to coconut derivatives.
Who should be careful with TEA-Cocoyl Glutaminate?
Individuals with known allergy to coconut-derived ingredients (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.