Sodium Cocoyl Isethionate Noodles - SCI

Sodium Cocoyl Isethionate is an anionic surfactant produced by reacting coconut fatty acids with sodium isethionate. The result is a solid, waxy ingredient that melts under heat and functions as both a cleansing agent and a foam booster in finished personal care products.

SCI is classified as sulfate-free, which distinguishes it from surfactants like sodium lauryl sulfate (SLS) and sodium laureth sulfate (SLES). It is sometimes referred to in the industry as “baby foam” because of its reported mildness — it is thought to be well-tolerated by sensitive skin and is commonly used in formulations developed for gentle or everyday cleansing.

The noodle form is one of the most practical formats for small to mid-scale makers. Noodles are easier to handle than powder because they produce less airborne dust during weighing and measuring. A dust mask is still recommended when working with SCI in any form, as inhalation of surfactant dust can cause respiratory irritation.

Both noodles and powder forms of SCI contain the same active ingredient and perform identically in a finished formula. The difference is purely physical — noodles are extruded into a longer, pasta-like shape, while powder is finely milled.

Powder melts slightly faster due to its greater surface area, which can be an advantage in liquid formulations where dissolution speed matters. Noodles are preferred by many makers for their reduced dust generation during handling — a practical consideration when working with larger volumes. In solid bar formulations, noodles can also be left partially intact for a visual texture effect.

For most production applications, the choice between noodles and powder comes down to your process and handling preference rather than performance. Browse the SCI Powder if you prefer a finer format.

SCI Noodles are a versatile raw surfactant used across a wide range of rinse-off personal care applications:

• Shampoo bars — one of the most common applications; SCI produces the rich, conditioning lather that makes solid shampoo bars a viable alternative to liquid shampoo
• Solid cleansing bars — sulfate-free body bars and facial cleansing bars built around SCI as the primary surfactant
• From-scratch shower gels and body washes — used at lower concentrations (3–15%) as part of a surfactant blend
• Bath bombs and bubble bars — incorporated at 10–20% to add foaming to bath-time products
• Facial cleansers — its mild, non-stripping nature and pH range of approximately 5–6.5 in water make it well suited for face wash formulations

For a step-by-step example, see our Sustainable Shampoo Bars recipe which uses SCI Noodles alongside SCS Noodles and Bubble Up to build a balanced shampoo bar formula.

SCI Noodles require heat to melt and should not be added directly to a cold water phase. The recommended approach for liquid formulations is to first melt the SCI Noodles with Bubble Up (cocamidopropyl betaine) before incorporating into the water phase of your formula. This combination helps the SCI dissolve evenly without clumping.

General usage guidance:

• Usage rate: 3–40% depending on application. Solid bars typically use higher concentrations (20–40%); liquid formulas use lower concentrations (3–15%)
• For solid bar applications, SCI can be melted with other solid surfactants and butters, then combined and pressed or poured into molds
• Apply slow, steady heat — SCI can scorch if overheated; use a double boiler or low heat setting
• Always wear a dust mask when measuring or handling SCI in any form to avoid inhalation of particulate matter
• Work in a well-ventilated area

No. Sodium Cocoyl Isethionate is not a sulfate surfactant. It belongs to the isethionate class of surfactants, not the sulfate class. This distinction matters for makers whose product lines are positioned as sulfate-free — SCI can be used in formulas carrying that claim.

It is chemically distinct from sodium lauryl sulfate (SLS) and sodium laureth sulfate (SLES), both of which are anionic sulfate surfactants. SCI is generally considered milder than either of these alternatives and is reported to be less likely to strip the skin’s natural moisture barrier at typical usage rates.

SCI is widely used in personal care formulations and is considered well-tolerated by most skin types when used in rinse-off products at appropriate concentrations. Its pH range in solution (approximately 5–6.5) aligns closely with the natural pH of skin and hair, which is believed to contribute to its reported mildness compared to more alkaline surfactants.

As with any surfactant, SCI is formulated for rinse-off use only. It should not be used in leave-on applications. Always test finished formulations before bringing them to market, and review applicable IFRA guidelines if incorporating fragrance into your formula.

SCI Noodles are available at Wholesale Supplies Plus in bulk sizing to support consistent production volume. For makers producing shampoo bars, cleansing bars, or other SCI-based products at scale, bulk purchasing reduces per-unit ingredient cost and minimizes supply chain interruptions between production runs.

Browse our full foaming agents and surfactants collection for compatible co-surfactants, thickeners, and conditioning ingredients that pair well with SCI in finished formulations.

What is sodium cocoyl isethionate used for?

Sodium Cocoyl Isethionate is used as a primary or co-surfactant in a range of rinse-off personal care products including shampoo bars, solid cleansing bars, body wash, shower gel, facial cleansers, and bath bombs. It provides rich lather, effective cleansing, and is considered mild enough for sensitive skin formulations.

Is sodium cocoyl isethionate safe for skin?

SCI is widely considered well-tolerated by most skin types at typical usage rates in rinse-off formulations. Its pH in solution aligns closely with skin’s natural pH range, and it is commonly included in formulations developed for sensitive skin. As with all cosmetic ingredients, formulation testing is recommended before commercializing any finished product.

Is sodium cocoyl isethionate a sulfate?

No. Sodium Cocoyl Isethionate belongs to the isethionate class of surfactants, not the sulfate class. It is chemically distinct from SLS and SLES and is appropriate for use in products marketed as sulfate-free.

What is the difference between SCI noodles and SCI powder?

Both forms contain the same active ingredient and perform identically in formula. Noodles generate less dust during handling, making them easier to work with in many production environments. Powder has a larger surface area and may dissolve slightly faster in liquid formulations. The choice is primarily one of handling preference and process needs.

Is sodium cocoyl isethionate good for hair?

SCI is a common primary surfactant in shampoo bar formulations. Its pH in solution is thought to be compatible with hair and scalp, and it is reported to produce a conditioning lather that cleanses without excessive stripping. It is typically used alongside conditioning agents and co-surfactants to build a balanced hair care formula.

How do you melt sodium cocoyl isethionate noodles?

For liquid formulations, melt SCI Noodles with Bubble Up (cocamidopropyl betaine) using slow, steady heat before incorporating into the water phase. For solid bar applications, melt with other solid surfactants and ingredients using a double boiler or low-heat method. Avoid scorching — SCI does not require high heat to melt.

What products can be made with sodium cocoyl isethionate?

SCI Noodles can be used in shampoo bars, solid body cleansing bars, facial cleansing bars, from-scratch shower gel and body wash, bubble bars, and bath bombs. Usage rates vary by application: 20–40% for solid bars, 3–15% for liquid formulas, and 10–20% for bath bombs.