Cocamidopropyl Dimethylamine

Cocamidopropyl Dimethylamine – Cationic Surfactant and Conditioner for Hair and Skin Care

Basic Information

• CAS Number: 68140-01-2

• Synonyms: Amides, coco, N-[3-(dimethylamino)propyl]; Cocoyl propyl dimethyl tertiary amine

• Molecular Formula: C₁₇H₂₀N₄O₂ (typical)

• Appearance: Clear to slightly hazy liquid or paste (depending on concentration)

• Solubility: Dispersible in water upon protonation (acidification); soluble in oils and organic solvents

Overview
Cocamidopropyl dimethylamine is a tertiary amine surfactant derived from coconut fatty acids and 3-dimethylaminopropylamine (DMAPA). Its amphiphilic structure – featuring a lipophilic coconut fatty acid chain and a hydrophilic tertiary amine group – provides a unique combination of conditioning, emulsifying, and antistatic properties. It is widely used in personal care formulations as a mild cationic surfactant and conditioning agent.

Applications

• Hair care: Conditioners, shampoos, leave‑in treatments, and hair masks – improves wet and dry combability, softness, and shine; reduces static and frizz.

• Skin care: Creams, lotions, and moisturizers – provides emollient and smoothing effects.

• Emulsions: Stabilizes O/W and W/O systems, improving product consistency and texture.

• Cleansing products: Body washes, facial cleansers – enhances foam texture and skin feel.

• Industrial: Used in foaming agents, thickening agents, ore flotation, and quaternary ammonium salt production.

Key Benefits

• Provides excellent conditioning and antistatic properties.

• Enhances softness and manageability of hair.

• Stabilizes emulsions and improves product texture.

• Mild and low irritation – suitable for sensitive skin.

• Cold-processable – easy to incorporate into formulations.

• Plant‑derived coconut fatty acid base – renewable and biodegradable.

Recommended Use
Typical usage levels range from 0.5–3% in rinse‑off products and 1–5% in leave‑on formulations. For optimal performance, incorporate into the oil phase with mild heating (50–60°C). It can be neutralized with acids (e.g., citric acid, lactic acid) to form cationic salts, enhancing water dispersibility and conditioning efficacy.

Safety and Handling

• Generally recognized as safe for use in cosmetics at recommended concentrations.

• Low irritation potential; well‑tolerated by skin and eyes.

• 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 amine value, purity, and conditioning performance to ensure consistent quality.