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Answer: Sodium Methyl Cocoyl Taurate is not currently banned worldwide, but health agencies have flagged concerns. The FDA still allows it in US cosmetics and personal-care products. Risk level: low. Commonly found in: Mustela Gentle Cleansing Gel, Dr. Bronner's Sal Suds Biodegradable Cleaner, Drunk Elephant Beste No. 9 Jelly Cleanser.
TL;DR: Sodium Methyl Cocoyl Taurate is allowed in the EU but allowed in the US (surfactant).
Reviewed for clarity & usefulness by the BannedPantry Parent Panel
INCI name SODIUM METHYL COCOYL TAURATE. Also called Taurate surfactant. CAS 61791-42-2.
Other names: Taurate Surfactant, Sodium Methyl Cocoyl Taurine
| EU status | Allowed |
|---|---|
| US status | Allowed |
| Risk level | low |
| Where it shows up | Mustela Gentle Cleansing Gel, Dr. Bronner's Sal Suds Biodegradable Cleaner, Drunk Elephant Beste No. 9 Jelly Cleanser |
| CAS number | 61791-42-2 |
Sodium methyl cocoyl taurate is an anionic acyl taurate surfactant derived from coconut oil and taurine (an amino sulfonic acid). It produces a fine, stable foam and is known for its very low irritation potential and excellent skin feel.
Used as a primary or co-surfactant in sensitive skin, baby, and natural formulations for gentle cleansing and conditioning. Its taurine backbone makes it highly biocompatible.
Sodium methyl cocoyl taurate has a very good safety profile with minimal irritation or sensitization potential. No carcinogenic, mutagenic, or reproductive toxicity concerns are documented. It is broadly compatible with skin microbiome health and does not significantly disrupt the skin barrier.
For educational use only. This page summarizes the regulatory status of Sodium Methyl Cocoyl Tauratewith citations to the primary sources below. It is not medical advice. Regulatory status is not the same as a proven health effect — read the cited sources for their exact wording, and consult a doctor for decisions about your or your family's health.
Sodium cocoyl isethionate or disodium laureth sulfosuccinate as similarly gentle alternatives.
It is derived from natural sources (coconut oil and taurine) and is accepted in many natural-positioned cosmetic formulations, though it requires chemical processing.
Yes. It is considered one of the mildest surfactants available and appears in baby wash formulas.
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