Cocamidopropyl Betaine (CAPB)

TYPE OF INGREDIENT

Surfactant and foaming agent

COMMONLY FOUND IN

Shampoos, contact lens solutions, toothpaste detergents, makeup removers, bath gels, skin care products, cleansers, liquid soaps, antiseptics

WHAT ARE THE BENEFITS OF COCAMIDOPROPYL BETAINE?

Cocamidopropyl Betaine is valued for its gentle cleansing properties. It is used for its ability to create a rich lather and effectively cleanse the skin and hair. It is a common ingredient in “no tears” shampoos as it is less likely to cause eye irritation. Therefore, shampoos containing this ingredient may be helpful for individuals with sensitive eyes.

WHAT IS COCAMIDOPROPYL BETAINE?

Cocamidopropyl Betaine is a synthetic surfactant derived from coconut oil and dimethylaminopropylamine. It is widely used in the cosmetic industry as a secondary surfactant due to its ability to increase foaming and improve the mildness of cleansing products.

IS COCAMIDOPROPYL BETAINE SAFE FOR ALL SKIN TYPES AND TONES?

Cocamidopropyl Betaine is generally safe for most skin types and tones. However, contact dermatitis to this compound has been reported, and CAPB was named the American Contact Dermatitis Society Allergen of the Year in 2004. However, an important caveat is that impurities introduced during the CAPB manufacturing process, such as amidoamine and dimethylaminopropylamine, are thought to play a role in sensitization. Individuals exposed to CAPB free of contaminants were much less likely to experience allergic reactions.

CONTRAINDICATIONS

There are typically no specific contraindications associated with Cocamidopropyl Betaine when used in cosmetic products. However, individuals who have experienced adverse reactions to products containing this ingredient should avoid its use and consult with a dermatologist if needed.

Sources:

Jacob SE, Amini S. Cocamidopropyl betaine. Dermatitis. 2008 May-Jun;19(3):157-60.
Johnson’s Baby. (n.d.). Strengthening kids shampoo. Retrieved September 13, 2023, from https://www.johnsonsbaby.com/baby-products/strengthening-kids-shampoo
Marriott M, Holmes J, Peters L, Cooper K, Rowson M, Basketter DA. The complex problem of sensitive skin. Contact Dermatitis. 2005 Aug;53(2):93-9.
Fletcher, J. (2018, October 31). What is cocamidopropyl betaine and is it safe to use? Healthline
Cosmetic Ingredient Review Expert Panel. (2012). Safety assessment of amidohydrolases as used in cosmetics

Aamir Hussain, MD, MAPP

Author

Dr. Aamir Hussain is a dermatologist currently practicing adult and pediatric dermatology in Northern Virginia. He serves on the health policy committee of the American Contact Dermatitis Society and has a clinical interest in patch testing. Dr. Hussain is an internationally-recognized speaker, writer and educator. His writings on health policy, medical education and the connections between healthcare and faith have been featured in prestigious media outlets, including The New York Times, The Washington Post, The Hill, and The Baltimore Sun. He has published numerous articles in peer-reviewed journals and is the author of several book chapters. He has presented research at major conferences, including the American Academy of Dermatology, World Congress of Dermatology, Society of Pediatric Dermatology, American Contact Dermatitis Society, American Society of Dermatopathology, Society of Investigative Dermatology and the American Society for Dermatologic Surgery.