Cocamidopropyl Betaine

KOH-kuh-MID-oh-PRO-pul beh-TANE

Anti-Static Agent, Surfactant 8/10 Safety CG ApprovedClean Semi-synthetic Vegan

What Is Cocamidopropyl Betaine?

Cocamidopropyl Betaine is a gentle amphoteric surfactant derived from coconut oil and dimethylaminopropylamine. It is widely used as a secondary surfactant to boost foam and reduce the irritation potential of stronger surfactants. CAPB is a staple in gentle, sulfate-free shampoo formulations.

Source: Coconut oil (chemically modified)

Origin: Semi-synthetic

Also known as: CAPB, Coco Betaine, Cocamidopropyl Dimethyl Glycine

What Does Cocamidopropyl Betaine Do to Your Hair?

CAPB acts as a mild cleansing and foaming agent that works synergistically with other surfactants. It has both positive and negative charges, allowing it to reduce irritation from anionic surfactants while enhancing foam quality and viscosity. It also provides light conditioning and anti-static benefits.

Best For

All hair types, curly hair (3A-4C), dry hair, sensitive scalp, color-treated hair

Not Recommended For

Rarely problematic; some individuals may have contact sensitivity

Concentration Matters

3-15%

Hair Type Compatibility

1A Straight Fine
1B Straight Medium
1C Straight Coarse
2A Wavy Fine
2B Wavy Medium
2C Wavy Coarse
3A Curly Loose
3B Curly Tight
3C Curly Corkscrew
4A Coily S-Shaped
4B Coily Z-Shaped
4C Coily Tight
Color-treated: Safe

Method Compatibility

Curly Girl (CG) Method: Approved
CG Approved

Safety & Regulation

8/10
AvoidCautionSafe

Generally very well tolerated. Rare cases of contact dermatitis have been reported, often traced to impurities (amidoamine) rather than CAPB itself. Named Contact Allergen of the Year in 2004 but considered safe by most dermatologists.

FDA Status: Generally Recognized As Safe

FDA permits use in cosmetics. CIR panel reviewed and considers safe at typical concentrations.

EWG Score: 1/10

HairAide Verdict

Cocamidopropyl Betaine is one of the gentlest effective surfactants available and a cornerstone of sulfate-free shampoos. It cleanses without stripping natural oils and is suitable for virtually all hair types. HairAide recommends it as a top pick for curly, dry, and color-treated hair.

Products That Contain Cocamidopropyl Betaine

Sulfate-free shampoos, gentle cleansers, baby shampoos, co-washes

Alternatives to Cocamidopropyl Betaine

If you want to avoid Cocamidopropyl Betaine, look for products with these ingredients instead:

Decyl Glucoside, Sodium Cocoyl Isethionate, Lauryl Glucoside

Frequently Asked Questions

Is Cocamidopropyl Betaine safe for hair?

Yes, Cocamidopropyl Betaine has a safety rating of 8/10 and is generally considered safe for use in hair products. Generally very well tolerated. Rare cases of contact dermatitis have been reported, often traced to impurities (amidoamine) rather than CAPB itself. Named Contact Allergen of the Year in 2004 but considered safe by most dermatologists.

Is Cocamidopropyl Betaine bad for curly hair?

Cocamidopropyl Betaine is CG-method approved and is generally considered safe for curly hair.

Is Cocamidopropyl Betaine CG-method approved?

Yes, Cocamidopropyl Betaine is approved for the Curly Girl method.

What can I use instead of Cocamidopropyl Betaine?

Some alternatives to Cocamidopropyl Betaine include: Decyl Glucoside, Sodium Cocoyl Isethionate, Lauryl Glucoside

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