Description

Sodium Cocoyl Isethionate (SCI) Powder

What is SCI Powder?

Sodium Cocoyl Isethionate, commonly known as SCI, is a mild, naturally-derived surfactant obtained from coconut oil and isethionic acid. It is a white, free-flowing powder that dissolves in water to create a rich, dense, and creamy foam. SCI is highly valued in the cosmetic and personal care industry for its gentle cleansing properties and excellent skin compatibility.

Unlike harsh sulfates, SCI is non-irritating, making it suitable for sensitive skin and baby products. It’s biodegradable, environmentally friendly, and often used in “green” or natural product formulations.

Key Benefits of SCI Powder:

• Gentle Cleansing: Cleans skin and hair effectively without stripping natural oils or causing dryness.

• Rich, Creamy Foam: Creates a luxurious lather that enhances the sensory experience of cleansing products.

• Mild and Non-Irritating: Suitable for sensitive or compromised skin, and can be used in baby and facial products.

• Good Skin Compatibility: Helps maintain skin hydration and barrier function.

• Biodegradable & Eco-Friendly: Derived from natural sources and breaks down easily in the environment.

• Versatile Formulation Ingredient: Ideal for solid and semi-solid cleansers such as bars, powders, and shampoo bars.

Common Uses of SCI Powder:

• Solid Cleansers: The primary surfactant in shampoo bars, facial cleansing bars, and body cleansing bars.

• Cleansing Powders: Used in powdered cleansers for the face and body.

• Bubble Bars & Bath Fizzies: Provides foam and cleansing properties in bath products.

• Shampoo Bars: Produces a creamy foam that cleans hair gently and effectively.

• Face Washes & Cleansers: Especially in formulations designed for sensitive skin.

• Hand Cleansers & Soap Bars: Creates a rich foam with minimal irritation.

Usage Rates:

• Solid Bars & Shampoo Bars: SCI is commonly used at 20% to 40% of the total formula to achieve the right balance of cleansing and foam.

• Powder Cleansers: Usage levels typically range from 15% to 30% depending on the formulation.

• Liquid Formulations: SCI is less soluble in water and therefore less commonly used in liquid soaps or body washes. If used, it requires special formulation techniques like co-solvents or mild heating.

• Bubble Bars & Bath Bombs: Around 10% to 20% can be included to enhance foam quality and mild cleansing.

Formulation Tips:

• SCI powder is often blended with other mild surfactants (like Cocamidopropyl Betaine) to improve performance and reduce dryness.

• It’s important to avoid overheating SCI during processing, as high temperatures can cause the powder to clump or lose its effectiveness.

• For solid bar formulations, SCI provides hardness and a smooth texture, often combined with butters or oils.

• Because SCI is powdery and can create dust, use appropriate safety measures like masks and gloves when handling large quantities.

• SCI dissolves best in warm water (around 45-55°C) during the mixing phase.

Storage & Handling:

• Store SCI powder in a cool, dry place away from moisture to prevent clumping.

• Use airtight containers to maintain product quality over time.

Summary Table:

Application Typical Usage Rate

Shampoo Bars20% – 40%

Facial & Body Cleansing Bars 20% – 40%

Powder Cleansers15% – 30%

Bubble Bars & Bath Bombs 10% – 20%

Liquid Soaps (special formulations)<10%