This amphoteric surfactant with the INCI name of Cocamidopropyl Betaine is a popular ingredient of a number of cosmetic products for body, face and hair care, such as shampoos, face wash gels and shower gels. The major advantages of the product include a good foamability, consistency-forming ability and also the capability to eliminate the irritating effects of anionic surfactant.
The amphoteric surfactant with the INCI name of Cocamidopropyl Betaine, belongs to compounds that are called betaines. Betaines are proteinogenic amino acids which grow in popularity due to their application possibilities – in medicine or in the food industry. The chemical name of Cocamidopropyl Betaine is expressed as: 1-Propanaminium, 3-amino-N-(carboxymethyl)-N,N-dimethyl-, N-C8-18-acyl derivs., hydroxides, inert salt. The following customary name is also used: cocamidopropyl betaine. The CAS number of the compound is 97862-59-4.
Physical and chemical properties of Cocamidopropyl Betaine:
The functions performed by Cocamidopropyl Betaine in cosmetic products include the enhancement of foaming and stabilisation of foam. Moreover, the surfactant is an excellent washing substance (primarily used in mild products). Cocamidopropyl Betaine is also used as an antistatic substance (it prevents the hair from picking up static). The detergency cleaning effect and good foamability (over a broad range of pH and water hardness values) are mostly used in products for washing the body and face and also in preparations for washing the hair. As a surfactant, it changes the surface tension of water and thus facilitates the removal of impurities from the surface to be cleaned. In addition, the compound is capable of alleviating irritations caused by some anionic surfactants e.g. Sodium Laureth Sulfate (SLS). Cocamidopropyl Betaine does no exhibit skin irritating effects, but it may remove lipids from the epidermis. This may result in skin dryness and irritation. On that account, it should only be used in rinse-off products that only stay in relatively short contact with the skin. Cocamidopropyl Betaine is also considered to be a consistency agent – it increases the viscosity of the mass (rheology modifier) and improves the consistency.
Cosmetic products that contain Cocamidopropyl Betaine:
Besides the wide-scale use of Cocamidopropyl Betaine in the cosmetic industry, this amphoteric surfactant is also effectively used in industrial detergents – mostly household and spray cleaners. This compound is dedicated particularly to glass and shiny surfaces due to its low smudging tendency. This property is especially desirable when cleaning the surfaces of black or stainless steel equipments, metal or ceramic sinks, chromed fittings or polished kitchen tops.
