Cocamidopropyl betaine

Cocamidopropyl betaine (CAPB) is an organic compound derived from coconut oil and dimethylaminopropylamine. It is commonly used as a gentle replacement for purely synthetic SLS and SLES surfactants, both highly irritating to the skin.

Betaines are zwitterionic compounds containing both anionic (carboxylate) and cationic (alkylammonium) groups, thus combining certain properties of both anionic and cationic surfactants. From the former they inherit good cleansing properties which make them suitable for bath products and hand soaps. They are also often added to shampoos as a foam booster. On the other hand, thanks to the presence of cationic groups, betaines have antistatic properties, crucial for hair conditioners, and antiseptic properties, making them suitable for personal sanitary products. Their zwitterionic nature renders them compatible with both ionic (cationic or anionic) and nonionic surfactants.

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