Coco-betaine is a derivative of betaine, that is mainly used in the cosmetic industry. The principal advantages of the product include a high reactivity, very good water solubility and effectiveness. In industrial applications, it primarily acts as a washing agent, dispersant and stabiliser.
The compound from the group of betaines, with theINCI name Coco-betaine, is an example of amphoteric surfactants. Another, alternative name of the compound – the chemical name – is coco alkyldimethyl betaine. The CAS number for Coco-betaine is 66455-29-6. In products, it primarily acts as a foaming agent and also a cleaning agent.
The cosmetic industry uses Coco-betaine mostly due to its capability to stabilise foam and improve its quality in a mixture with anionic surfactants. The generation of a good quality and stable foam is crucial for the mechanism of removing impurities. The substance has very good foaming and thickening properties over a wide range of pH values and in hard water. As a rheology modifier, Coco-betaine reduces the viscosity of a cosmetic formulation. Thus it ensures the desired consistency, which directly determines the application properties of the formulation. Coco-betaine changes the rheology of cosmetics that contain in particular anionic surfactants or electrolytes (e.g. sodium chloride), forming what are known as mixed micelles. Coco-betaine is also called a hydrotrope, i.e. a substance that is added to a cosmetic in order to improve its clarity. In hair care products, it prevents the hair from picking up static, because betaines reduce the static charge on the hair surface. The compound also conditions the skin. Coco-betaine has a soothing effect on skin irritations that may appear due to contact with some anionic surfactants. On that account, the compound is highly recommended for use in products dedicated for sensitive, irritation-prone skin (e.g. baby care products). In combination with SLS, SLES or ABSNa, it exhibits positive, synergistic effects in boosting foam volume and improves the stability of preparations. Besides, its stability in highly saline solutionshelps to reduce the consumption of surfactants in cosmetics.
