Cocoyl

Cocoyl is a chemical term used to denote an acyl group derived from coconut oil. In organic and cosmetic chemistry, cocoyl groups are fatty acyl moieties attached to other molecules through amide or ester linkages. Because coconut oil comprises primarily lauric acid (C12) along with smaller amounts of myristic, palmitic, and other fatty acids, cocoyl substituents can represent lauroyl and related coconut-derived acyl groups. The term does not refer to a single pure compound; rather, it indicates the origin of the acyl chain.

Cocoyl derivatives are widely used in surfactants and cosmetic ingredients because they often offer mild cleansing and pleasant skin feel. Some well-known cocoyl-containing ingredients include sodium cocoyl isethionate, sodium cocoyl glutamate, and sodium cocoyl sarcosinate. These are typically used in cleansers and shampoos; they may appear as mild anionic surfactants or amphoteric surfactants depending on the accompanying counterions and co-ingredients.

Because cocoyl-based surfactants are coconut-derived, formulations may vary in purity and fatty acid distribution. In general, cocoyl derivatives are considered mild, but impurities in some coconut-derived products can cause irritation for sensitive individuals. In cosmetic regulation, cocoyl derivatives are common ingredients, subject to safety and labeling requirements appropriate to the jurisdiction.