Article last updated: October 15, 2024
PEG-7 Cocamide, also known as Amides, coco alkyl, N-(hydroxyethyl), ethoxylated (6 mol EO average molar ratio), is a versatile ingredient commonly found in various cosmetic and personal care products. Derived from coconut oil, this ingredient is part of the PEG (polyethylene glycol) family, which are compounds widely used in the cosmetic industry for their emulsifying and cleansing properties.
The history of PEG-7 Cocamide dates back to the mid-20th century when chemists began exploring the potential of ethoxylation—a chemical process that involves adding ethylene oxide to fatty acids or alcohols. This process enhances the solubility and functionality of the resulting compounds, making them ideal for use in a wide range of applications. PEG-7 Cocamide emerged as a popular choice due to its ability to effectively blend oil and water, creating stable emulsions and improving the texture and performance of cosmetic formulations.
To produce PEG-7 Cocamide, coconut oil is first processed to extract fatty acids, which are then reacted with ethanolamine to form cocamide. This cocamide is subsequently ethoxylated by adding ethylene oxide, resulting in the final product with an average of 6 ethylene oxide units per molecule. This specific ethoxylation level gives PEG-7 Cocamide its unique properties, making it an excellent cleansing and emulsifying agent in products like shampoos, conditioners, body washes, and facial cleansers.
In this section, we will delve into the officially recognized cosmetic benefits and uses of PEG-7 Cocamide:
PEG-7 Cocamide is primarily known for its cleansing properties. This means it helps to remove dirt, oil, and other impurities from the skin and hair. When included in products like shampoos, body washes, and facial cleansers, PEG-7 Cocamide works by breaking down and emulsifying the oils and grime, making it easier to wash them away. This results in a cleaner, fresher feel without leaving a heavy residue behind.
Another significant benefit of PEG-7 Cocamide is its emulsifying capability. In simple terms, this means it helps to blend ingredients that typically don’t mix well together, like oil and water. By stabilizing these mixtures, PEG-7 Cocamide ensures that the product maintains a consistent texture and effectiveness. This is particularly important in lotions, creams, and other formulations where a smooth, uniform consistency is key to the product’s performance and user experience.
Note: the listed benefits above are exclusively based on the officially recognized and defined functions of the ingredient, as documented by the International Nomenclature of Cosmetic Ingredients (INCI).
PEG-7 Cocamide is generally considered safe for use in cosmetic products. However, like any ingredient, it may cause side effects in some individuals. Here are some potential side effects of topical application of PEG-7 Cocamide:
Regarding individuals who are pregnant or breastfeeding, data and research on the topical usage of PEG-7 Cocamide during pregnancy are lacking. Therefore, it is advisable for pregnant or breastfeeding women to consult a healthcare professional for further advice before using products containing this ingredient.
Side effects and adverse reactions from PEG-7 Cocamide are relatively uncommon. However, it is always a good practice to perform a patch test before widespread usage to ensure that you do not have an adverse reaction to the ingredient.
In terms of comedogenicity, PEG-7 Cocamide has a rating of 1 on a scale of 0 to 5, where 0 is totally non-comedogenic and 5 is highly comedogenic. This low rating means that it is unlikely to clog pores and cause acne or blemishes, making it generally suitable for individuals prone to breakouts.
