Ingredient dictionary

PEG-7 Glyceryl Cocoate

PEG-7 Glyceryl Cocoate is a mild, coconut-based cleansing agent made from coconut oil and glycerin. It helps oil and water mix, so formulas rinse off cleanly. It is on the label of 33 products in our library. Checked against our library November 6, 2026.

The catch: none for most people; check the full product list if your skin reacts easily.

What PEG-7 Glyceryl Cocoate does

Mild cleansing agent for water-based washes
Helps oil and water blend together
Builds a soft, creamy lather

Coconut oil and glycerin are combined first, then a short chain of polyethylene glycol (PEG) is added. Glycerin is a simple alcohol that draws in water, and PEG is a common building block in cosmetics. The number 7 refers to the average number of PEG units.

Formulators like it because it cleans well without a harsh feel. The coconut part helps lift oil and grease, while the PEG part helps it blend into water-based formulas. It makes a soft, creamy foam, so it shows up often in body washes, shampoos, and baby washes. It is generally well tolerated, though any cleanser can feel drying for some people.

Good for

Suits everyday body washes, cleansers, and shampoos for people who want a gentler wash, including baby products.

Be careful if

Nothing in particular for most skin types.

Frequently asked questions

Is PEG-7 Glyceryl Cocoate safe for sensitive skin?

It is a mild cleansing agent, so it shows up in many gentle products. Everyone reacts differently, though, so patch testing a new wash on a small area is a sensible step. Stop using any product that causes redness, itching, or stinging.

Is PEG-7 Glyceryl Cocoate the same as coconut oil?

No. It is made from coconut-derived fatty acids and glycerin, then modified with PEG, so it works as a cleanser rather than a moisturizing oil. Coconut oil is a plain oil used as is. Both come from coconut, but they behave very differently in a formula.