Cocamidopropyl Betaine
A mild, coconut-derived foaming agent that gives cleansers a soft lather and makes harsher surfactants gentler.
cocamidopropyl betaine, CAPB, cocamidopropyl hydroxysultaine, coco betaine, cocamidopropyl
All skin types
What it does
Derived from coconut oil, cocamidopropyl betaine is a mild foaming agent (surfactant) used in many cleansers. It is gentler than harsh foaming agents such as sodium lauryl sulphate (SLS), and is often paired with them to soften their effect.
How it works
Creating a gentle lather, cocamidopropyl betaine lifts away dirt and grime, leaving a fresh complexion with less risk of stripping the skin’s natural oils and moisture than harsher cleansers. Its molecule carries both a positive and a negative charge, which is part of why it is mild. A close relative, cocamidopropyl hydroxysultaine, works in a similar way.
MG says
Cocamidopropyl betaine is a gentle cleansing agent that creates a soft lather in cleansers. It is often found in baby products and baby shampoos due to its mild effect. If foaming cleansers leave your skin tight, look for one built on milder surfactants like this one rather than harsh sulphates.
Cautions
Although mild, cocamidopropyl betaine is a known cause of allergic contact reactions in a small number of people, often linked to impurities left from manufacturing. If a cleanser leaves you itchy or red, stop using it and check the label for this ingredient.
