Cocamidopropyl Betaine (CAPB)

Cocamidopropyl Betaine (CAPB) – Mild Amphoteric Surfactant for Personal Care and Household Products

Basic Information

• CAS Number: 61789-40-0 (common; also referenced as 86438-79-1)

• INCI Name: Cocamidopropyl Betaine

• Appearance: Colorless to pale yellow viscous liquid

• Odor: Slight, characteristic

• Density: ~1.04–1.06 g/cm³ (at 20°C)

• Solubility: Highly soluble in water and water-alcohol mixtures

• Storage: Store in tightly sealed containers at 5–30°C; thickening at low temperatures is reversible upon warming

Overview
Cocamidopropyl betaine (CAPB) is an amphoteric surfactant derived from coconut oil fatty acids and dimethylglycine. Its structure consists of a long-chain alkyl amide group linked to a betaine moiety, giving it both cationic and anionic characteristics depending on pH. This makes it exceptionally mild and compatible with a wide range of other surfactants. CAPB is widely used in personal care and household cleaning products to enhance foaming, reduce irritation, and improve conditioning properties.

Applications

• Shampoos and conditioners: Provides mild cleansing, enhances foam volume and stability, and reduces static.

• Shower gels and body washes: Contributes to rich, creamy foam and improves skin feel.

• Facial cleansers: Suitable for sensitive skin due to its gentle nature.

• Baby care products: Used in tear-free shampoos and body washes.

• Household cleaners: Applied in dishwashing liquids and all-purpose cleaners to boost foam and reduce harshness.

• Other: Used as a co-surfactant in hand soaps, shaving foams, and personal lubricants.

Key Benefits

• Mild and non‑irritating – suitable for sensitive skin and mucous membranes.

• Excellent foam booster – increases foam volume and stability.

• Reduces irritation of primary anionic surfactants (e.g., SLS, SLES).

• Compatible with anionic, cationic, nonionic, and amphoteric surfactants.

• Biodegradable and environmentally friendly.

• Provides conditioning and softening effects to skin and hair.

Safety and Handling

• Generally recognized as safe (GRAS) for use in cosmetics and personal care at typical concentrations (1–10%).

• Low irritation potential; may cause mild eye irritation at high concentrations.

• Avoid contact with strong oxidizers and acids.

• Store in a cool, dry place, away from direct sunlight.

• Use appropriate personal protective equipment (gloves, safety goggles) when handling.

Quality Assurance
Each batch is tested for active content, pH, and foaming performance to ensure consistent quality.