SODIUM COCOYL ISETHIONATE (SCI) POWDER

Sodium Cocoyl Isethionate (SCI) Powder in Bulk

Sodium Cocoyl Isethionate powder (SCI) is a mild surfactant derived from coconut oil, widely used in the manufacture of syndet bars, solid shampoos and personal care cleansers. This technical guide covers what this ingredient is, how it is obtained, and its main applications in professional cosmetic formulation, aimed at labs, artisan soap makers and B2B buyers sourcing at scale.

What is Sodium Cocoyl Isethionate (SCI)?

SCI is a mild anionic surfactant obtained from coconut-derived cocoyl acid combined with sodium isethionate. It comes as a fine powder or flakes, which simplifies dosing, dry blending and batch control during the industrial production of syndet bars, solid shampoos and facial cleansers.

Unlike harsher anionic surfactants, SCI stands out for being gentle on skin and hair, producing a dense, creamy and stable lather without causing excessive dryness. It is compatible with sulfate-free formulations, an increasingly requested attribute in professional cosmetics, and its powder form simplifies bulk storage and transport.

Cosmetic uses of Sodium Cocoyl Isethionate powder

Syndet soap bars. SCI is the base ingredient of syndet bars, fully or partially replacing traditional soap. It delivers a firm texture, controlled dissolution and a creamy lather profile highly valued in dermatological formulations.

Solid shampoos. In shampoo bar manufacturing, SCI acts as the primary surfactant, cleansing scalp and hair without the harshness of sulfates, making it a common choice for gentle and sustainable hair care lines.

Facial and body cleansers. It is used in gels, cleansing bars and facial soaps thanks to its ability to generate abundant foam while respecting the skin barrier, particularly appreciated in formulations for sensitive skin.

Baby and gentle-skin care products. Due to its mildness profile, SCI is incorporated into formulations aimed at infant or reactive skin, where effective cleansing with minimal irritation is a priority.

CAS: 61789-32-0 / 58969-27-0. EINECS: 263-052-5. INCI: Sodium cocoyl isethionate.